It is imperative that patients wear their approved surgical or underwire bra for several months after having a breast lift. The point of continual wear during recovery is to prevent unnecessary strain on incisions as healing occurs. Most women who have large breasts know that when they lie down, their breasts flare out to the sides. Underwire bras, which rest below any incisions, are used to optimize a round breast shape and provide a close cleavage while you are healing, preventing them from flaring out to the sides. After the incisions have healed and swelling has subsided, wearing a bra continues to be integral to the shape of the breasts. Wearing a supportive bra can minimize unnecessary stretching of the skin and ligaments that support the breast mound.