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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
December 17, 2025
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A MyBCTeam Member

I wore open front tops, and sweatpants on bottom for 2 weeks after surgery. A mastectomy pillow is great for coming home and rides to appointments. Also, have everything at hand level as you will not be able to lift your arms much higher. My recliner was a life saver, I slept on it through my whole recovery. If you don't have a recliner, prop pillows up on your bed since most likely you will not be able to lay on your back. Hugs and prayers for a speedy recovery ❤️

December 17, 2025 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

Recliner worked well for me!

December 17, 2025
MyBCTeam

Is a special pillow helpful after breast removal surgery, and what should you wear during recovery?

Yes, special pillows designed for mastectomy recovery can be very helpful! Many people find them essential for comfort during healing.

Benefits of mastectomy pillows
- They protect your incision when lying down
- Help Show Full Answer

Is a special pillow helpful after breast removal surgery, and what should you wear during recovery?

Yes, special pillows designed for mastectomy recovery can be very helpful! Many people find them essential for comfort during healing.

Benefits of mastectomy pillows:
- They protect your incision when lying down
- Help position your arm away from your body
- Provide something soft to hug against the surgical site
- Can be placed between you and your seatbelt when traveling

A MyBCTeam member shared: "I found a small pillow that has been everything to me since my mastectomy. It's just the right size and softness to hug against my incision."

Some people use multiple pillows for different purposes - including wedge pillows for sleeping more upright, neck pillows, and even full body pillows to prevent accidental bumps at night. What to wear after surgery:

The key is choosing clothing that's easy to put on without lifting your arms overhead.

Best clothing options:
- Button-up or snap-front shirts (loose-fitting and soft)
- Zip-up tops
- Stretchy-waisted pants or yoga pants
- A jacket or cardigan with inside pockets (to hold surgical drains)
- Post-mastectomy camisoles with drain pockets

A MyBCTeam member recommended: "Anything button-down, loose-fitting, and soft." Another found that "men's or women's Western shirts (oversized) with snap buttons" made dressing much easier.

Your surgeon can provide specific recommendations based on your individual surgery and recovery needs.

December 17, 2025

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Hamilton Township, NJ