Finding the Best Bras After Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction

Finding the Right Bras After Mastectomy and Reconstruction

Having a mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery can greatly impact the bra options that work for you post-surgery. While the reconstruction process aims to reform the shape and volume of your breasts, the results are not identical to your original breasts. This means you’ll likely need to switch to different bras that accommodate your new breasts' unique needs and physical changes from surgery.

How Mastectomy Impacts Bras

Some of the effects of mastectomy that influence bra selection include:

• Loss of breast volume - Requires smaller cup sizes or removable padding
• Changed shape and symmetry - Affects needed bra cup shape and fit
• Loss of sensation - Prevents feeling bra rubbing or pinching
• Scarring - Bra may need to avoid contact with healing incisions
• Swollen tissue expander - Accommodates expanding size during reconstruction

These factors mean you’ll likely need a totally different set of bras than what you wore pre-surgery. Finding bras specifically designed for post-mastectomy bodies can help you look and feel your best.

When to Start Wearing Bras After Surgery

It’s crucial to allow complete healing before wearing bras. Here are some general guidelines on when you can begin wearing bras:

• After tissue expander placement - Usually about 2-6 weeks post-op
• After tissue expander fills - About 2-3 weeks after final fill
• After implant exchange surgery - Around 6 weeks post-op
• After flap reconstruction - Around 6-8 weeks post-op

Always follow your surgeon’s specific recommendations on when bras can be worn based on your unique healing process and reconstruction timeline.

Choosing the Best Bras After Mastectomy

Here are key features to look for when shopping for bras after breast reconstruction:

• Soft, seamless cups without underwire
• Front closure or wide side panels for easy on/off
• Wide adjustable straps that don't dig in
• Removable padding as needed
• Breathable fabric like cotton or microfiber
• Non-binding band that accommodates fluid swelling

Finding bras with these attributes can help maximize your comfort and fit during the reconstruction process and beyond.

Bra Options by Breast Reconstruction Type

Certain bras are better suited to the specific type of breast reconstruction you have.

Tissue Expander Bras

During the tissue expander process, your breasts are gradually increased in size over weeks or months by injecting saline into the expander implant. Bras during this time should:

• Stretch to accommodate expanding size
• Have front closure and wide side panels
• Allow room for expelled fluid and swelling
• Avoid seams over filling ports

Suggested bras include those by AnaOno, Jodee, and Amoena with flexible sizing and side openings.

Implant Reconstruction Bras

After implant exchange surgery, your permanent implants will create a fuller breast contour. Bras ideal for implant reconstruction include:

• Lightweight foam or fiberfill cups
• Wider underband for support
• Removable padding to balance asymmetry
• Racerback and leotard styles

The Embrace Lounge Bra by AnaOno and New Attitude Seamless bras work well for implant reconstruction results.

Autologous Flap Reconstruction Bras

With autologous methods like DIEP flap using your own tissue, you’ll need bras that:

• Are non-restrictive to avoid impeding blood flow
• Have soft lining and minimal hardware
• Accommodate post-op drainage
• Allow room for swelling fluctuations

Try comfortable cotton bras from Tiffany Rose, Jodee, and Gap for flap reconstruction.

Flat Closure Bras

If you choose not to reconstruct breasts, opt for bras designed for flat closure such as:

• Bras with pockets to hold prosthetics
• Compressed camisole-style bras
• Those made just for flat closure with soft lining

The AnaOno Maya bra and TomBoyX compression bra work well for flat closure needs.

Best Bra Brands After Mastectomy

Some top brands designing bras tailored for the post-mastectomy body include:

AnaOno

Founded by breast cancer survivor Dana Donofree, AnaOno creates bras for women who have had breast surgery. They have innovative styles like reversible bras, racerbacks, and bras with drain management.

Amoena

Amoena makes a variety of mastectomy bras from leisure bras to strapless bras, as well as pocketed styles for prosthetics. They use quality materials for comfort and support.

Jodee

Jodeeoffers front-closure bras in both underwire and wireless options to make dressing easier after surgery. They also have styles for different reconstruction stages.

Nearly Me

Nearly Me creates pocketed bras in seamless and natural shapes to hold breast forms. They help restore shape and balance after mastectomy.

Tiffany Rose

Tiffany Rose has a mastectomy collection with soft bras ideal for expander and flap procedures. Their Cotton Candy bra is an ultra-soft everyday bra option.

Bra Shopping Tips and Resources

Here are some additional tips for finding the right post-mastectomy bras for you:

• Get properly fitted by a specialist fitter who understands post-surgery needs
• Try different styles to determine what's most comfortable for your body
• Look for bras designed for each stage of the reconstruction process
• Choose natural materials like cotton, bamboo and microfiber
• Join online support groups to get bra recommendations from other women

Websites like Breastcancer.org, MyBreast.org, and AnaOno also offer helpful articles on choosing bras after reconstruction surgery.

The Takeaway

Having a mastectomy and breast reconstruction greatly changes your breast shape, size, and sensations. This requires wearing different bras than you did pre-surgery. Seek out bras specifically designed for reconstructed breasts, like AnaOno, Amoena, and Jodee. Look for soft, front-closure bras with adjustable straps and removable pads. Allow yourself at least 6-8 weeks of healing before wearing bras. With the right bra choices, you’ll feel comfortable, supported, and confident after reconstruction.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.