How Should You Shower Before Breast Augmentation?
A thorough wash the night before or morning of surgery lowers skin bacteria at the incision site — plain or antiseptic soap, then nothing on the skin afterward.
Skin carries bacteria that become relevant the moment an incision opens it, so pre-surgical washing is a standard infection-control step. Many clinics ask for a shower the night before and again on the morning of surgery, sometimes with an antiseptic wash such as chlorhexidine, paying attention to the chest, underarms, and skin folds.
After the shower: put nothing on
Lotion, deodorant, perfume, and makeup all leave residue that interferes with skin antisepsis and surgical marking, so the day-of rule is clean, dry, bare skin. Shaving the surgical area yourself is usually discouraged — razor micro-cuts can raise infection risk, and any hair removal is handled by the team if needed.
Skin sensitivity to antiseptic washes differs between individuals — some people react to chlorhexidine — and instructions change accordingly. Tell the team about skin conditions or allergies at the consultation and follow the washing instructions you were given over generic internet advice.
MediIndex articles are for general information only and are not medical advice, diagnosis, or advertising. Outcomes vary by individual — consult a board-certified specialist for personal decisions.