Finding the right bra after a mastectomy can be challenging, especially if your chest area feels tender or more sensitive. A mastectomy bra may help by providing support and comfort during recovery. People of any gender who’ve had breast cancer surgery may also benefit from wearing a mastectomy bra, according to Breast Cancer Now.

“I am having problems wearing a bra after reconstruction on the implant side. I have to change my bras during the day sometimes due to pain,” one MyBCTeam member said. Fortunately, several bra options are available after a mastectomy or reconstructive surgery.

What Is a Mastectomy Bra?

A mastectomy bra is designed to provide comfort and support after breast removal surgery. These bras are usually made from soft materials with soft seams, have adjustable straps, and don’t contain underwire, which may cause discomfort during healing.

“Avoid underwire bras initially, as they can dig into healing skin,” one MyBCTeam member suggested. “It’s best to wait until swelling subsides and your doctor gives approval before returning to underwire styles.”

After breast reconstruction surgery, your surgeon may recommend wearing a bra during the day and while you sleep. Many mastectomy bras have a front closure, making them easier to put on and take off. Your range of motion may be limited after surgery, so a bra that’s easy to fasten can be especially helpful.

A mastectomy bra may also provide comfort after radiation to the breast area.

Many mastectomy bras can be worn with surgical drains, which are commonly used after a mastectomy. After breast tissue is removed, the area can fill with fluid as the body heals. A drain removes this excess fluid for about two to three weeks after surgery.

You don’t have to wear a special postmastectomy bra if you choose not to, but it’s important to wear a bra that is soft and not too restrictive. One MyBCTeam member wrote, “A soft sports bra without underwire is typically the best choice during recovery.”

Ask your surgeon if you’ll need a special bra during recovery.

How Do You Choose a Mastectomy Bra?

Talk with your surgeon and healthcare team when choosing a mastectomy bra. Several factors can help guide your decision, including:

• The type of surgery you had
• The amount of pain or discomfort you expect during recovery
• Your range of motion after surgery
• Need for a surgical drain
• Need for compression
• Plans for breast reconstruction surgery

Your chest and breast area may continue to change in shape and size for up to a year after a mastectomy. It’s normal to have swelling after surgery, so you may need a larger bra size at first. As you heal, you may find that different types of postmastectomy bras work better at different stages.

When shopping for a postmastectomy bra, it can be helpful to shop in person so you can try on different styles before buying one. Many lingerie and department stores offer fittings with specialists. Consider calling ahead to make an appointment.

However, a fitting is not required. You can buy a mastectomy bra online or from a lower-cost retailer. “I just buy bras by Bali from either Kohl’s or Macy’s,” one MyBCTeam member wrote. “I usually watch for half price, so they only cost about $20.”

Do You Need a Mastectomy Bra?

Whether you wear a mastectomy bra after surgery is a personal choice. If you decide not to have breast reconstruction or use a prosthesis, you may not require a bra. Choosing a flat closure after surgery is called “going flat.”

A soft sports bra can also be used after a mastectomy. A MyBCTeam member wrote, “My surgeon recommends a sports bra for at least four weeks after implant reconstruction. He advises wearing it longer if needed.”

Ask your surgeon whether there are any reasons you should wear a bra after surgery. If they recommend a mastectomy bra, follow their guidance on the type and how long to wear it.

Focus on finding a comfortable fit that supports healing. Once you’ve fully recovered, it’s usually safe to return to a traditional underwire bra. One MyBCTeam member wrote, “Be patient with your body’s healing process, and reassess your bra options after recovery is complete.”

Join the Conversation

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Which type of bra did you choose after your mastectomy or breast reconstruction, and why? Let others know in the comments below.