When recovering from a mastectomy surgery, you deserve comfort and support. Pain and mobility issues affect up to 70 percent of women after a mastectomy. Simple activities like sitting, sleeping, or riding in a car can be surprisingly uncomfortable after surgery.

Fortunately, these issues should improve with time. In some cases, a mastectomy pillow can make life a little easier in the meantime. Here’s how mastectomy pillows work and what to look for as you prepare for surgery.

Are There Different Types of Mastectomy Pillows?

There are several types of mastectomy pillows. Each one serves a slightly different purpose. Choosing the best mastectomy pillow for you depends on how you plan to use it.

Wedge Pillows

Wedge pillows are larger and are mainly used for sleeping or resting in bed. They are triangular-shaped and help keep your upper body elevated. Doctors usually recommend sleeping on your back after surgery, and a wedge pillow can make that easier.

Some people also get pillows to support their legs or back while sleeping. You can try out different arrangements before surgery to decide what you need.

Heart-Shaped Pillows

Heart-shaped chest pillows are smaller and more portable for daytime use. They’re designed to reduce pain and numbness and provide a source of comfort during recovery.

Double-Mastectomy Pillows

Double-mastectomy pillows are designed to cover a wider area across the chest. They may have straps that go around your shoulders or back, which helps keep the pillow in place without needing to hold it. This can be especially useful if you have limited arm movement or strength after breast cancer surgery.

U-Shaped Pillows

You can also get a larger U-shaped pillow to fit around your body, making it easier to relax comfortably at home.

One MyBCTeam member found that the U-shaped pillow helped prevent their underarm from coming into contact with the wounded area. “With my mastectomy, they gave me a small U-shaped pillow to put under my arm. It helps reduce the friction and pressure from the arm against the surgical site (lymph nodes removed),” they shared.

They added, “That incision was actually more sensitive than the mastectomy incision areas! If you do not have the pillow, a neck pillow or a folded towel will work just as well.”

Each type of mastectomy pillow has a different use. You may choose to use more than one type during recovery (such as one for sleep and another for the car). Your healthcare team can make suggestions based on the type of surgery you’re having and your lifestyle at home.

How To Choose and Use a Mastectomy Pillow

After surgery, you need supportive pillows that are comfortable and practical. Your choice of a mastectomy pillow should be based on your personal preferences and your surgeon’s recommendations.

Consider the Intended Use

Start by thinking about how you plan to use it. If you need support for sleeping, a wedge pillow or a larger supportive pillow may be the best option. If you want support during the day or while traveling, a smaller, lightweight pillow or seatbelt pillow may be more convenient.

Select the Right Pillow for You

A pillow that’s too small may not provide enough coverage. One that’s too large may feel bulky. Look for a size that fits your body comfortably and provides support where you need it most.

Firmness is another important factor. Some people prefer a softer pillow that feels gentle against the skin. Others benefit from a firmer pillow that offers more structure and support.

Take some time before surgery to think about what you’d prefer, just like you would when choosing the right bed pillow for sleep.

Look for Utility Features

After surgery, keeping the affected area clean is essential. Mastectomy pillows with washable covers that are easy to clean can make this easier. You may also want to get an extra backup cover so you can switch it out if you don’t have the chance to do laundry often.

Some postsurgery pillows also come with straps or handles. Straps can help keep the pillow in place, especially if you have limited arm mobility. Handles make it easier to carry the pillow with you as you move around your home or travel to appointments.

Mastectomy Pillows as Part of Your Recovery Plan

A mastectomy pillow is most often used in the first few weeks after surgery, when the chest area is most sensitive. You’ll want to have it ready as soon as you get home from the hospital. It can be helpful during rest, sleep, and daily activities.

As your body heals, you may need the pillow less often. Some people continue to use it for added comfort during longer car rides or when resting.

Watch for Postmastectomy Complications

Always follow the instructions from your surgeon or nurse. They may have specific advice based on your surgery and recovery needs. If something feels uncomfortable or causes pain, stop using it and check with your care team.

Remember, a mastectomy pillow is a comfort tool. It’s not a medical device. Mastectomy pillows shouldn’t replace any post-op supports or garments provided by your care team.

Avoid placing pressure directly on incisions or drains, and make sure the pillow doesn’t compress these areas. You’ll want to avoid restricting blood flow to healing areas.

Pay attention to your body. If you notice redness or discoloration, pus, or any other signs of infection, contact your healthcare provider right away. A pillow should make you feel more comfortable, not less.

Don’t Forget Other Postsurgery Care

Mastectomy pillows are just one part of a larger recovery plan. Other helpful items may include loose clothing, front-opening tops, ice packs, and mastectomy bras.

In addition, pain medications and other postsurgery care, like changing bandages and caring for drains, should be your first priority.

Plan Before Breast Surgery

Planning ahead can make your recovery smoother and less stressful. Before surgery, consider asking your care team for their recommendations. They can help you decide which items may be most useful based on your specific situation. Additionally, local support groups may offer free support through donated items.

Having the right tools ready at home can help you focus on healing and feeling better day by day.

Join the Conversation

On MyBCTeam, people share their experiences with breast cancer, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

What type of postsurgery recovery pillow did you find most helpful? Let others know in the comments below.