After breast cancer surgery, some prefer to wear mastectomy-friendly swimwear that supports and complements their new shape. With a growing number of options, including styles from well-known brands, it’s easier than ever to find a post-mastectomy swimsuit that feels comfortable, stylish, and practical.

If you’re happy with your current swimsuit and how it fits, you don’t need to buy new swimwear after a mastectomy. What matters most is wearing whatever helps you feel confident, relaxed, and most like yourself again, whether you’re heading off on a beach vacation or swimming laps at the local pool.

Why Swimwear Needs Change After a Mastectomy

Mastectomies can affect the body in both visible and not-so-visible ways, so you may consider new swimwear when you’re ready to return to the beach or pool.

Physical changes after a mastectomy can include:

• A flatter chest
• Scars
• Unevenness
• Sensitivity in the chest and underarm area

Some may also experience swelling or a limited range of motion, which can make certain swimsuit styles or fits uncomfortable. These physical changes can also affect body image and self-confidence.

Knowing what features to look for in mastectomy swimsuits can help you narrow down your options and find a style that feels comfortable, supportive, and right for you.

While these features can help guide your choices, the best swimsuit is the one that feels right for your body. And it doesn’t have to specifically be a mastectomy bikini or swimsuit either. Many standard styles can work just as well.

One member of MyBCTeam said, “Any bathing suit with removable padding can work. Just take out the padding and put in your prosthesis.”

Swim Forms

If you plan to use breast prostheses in the water, there are options specifically designed for swimming. Swim forms are typically made with quick-drying, breathable materials that won’t absorb water. This also makes them lighter and potentially more comfortable than everyday breast forms.

“I use special prosthetics made for swimming,” one MyBCTeam member shared. “They’re lighter and chlorine-resistant.”

Another said, “Mine are bead-filled and don’t hold water.”

A third added, “I’ve heard of women putting scrubbies in their swimsuits since prostheses can be expensive. Just make sure they don’t float away.”

Styles and Options To Help You Feel Comfortable and Confident

Here are a few swimsuit styles to consider based on your preferences and needs. As you explore your options, think about whether you’re going flat, have had breast reconstruction, or plan to use breast prostheses or swim forms, as this can affect fit and comfort.

One-piece mastectomy swimsuits with high necklines are a great option if you’re looking for more coverage and support. Higher necklines and armholes can help conceal surgery scars or areas affected by radiation.

Many one-piece styles also include soft padding or built-in pockets designed to hold breast forms or prostheses in place. These features can help reduce movement and provide a greater sense of security, especially if you’re swimming laps or staying active in the water.

Tankinis and two-piece sets can offer flexibility and convenience while still providing support. They can also make bathroom trips easier than one-piece styles.

Once you find a pocketed tankini top you like, you can mix and match it with different bottoms depending on your body type, comfort level, and coverage preferences.

For example, you might pair it with bikini bottoms, high-waisted styles for more coverage, tummy-control bottoms for added support, or board shorts for a more relaxed feel.

One member of MyBCTeam said, “I look out for sales. I picked up my tankini for about $50.”

If you prefer less coverage, mastectomy bikinis and swim bras can offer shape and support with a more minimal feel. Like tankini tops, they can be mixed and matched with a variety of swimsuit bottoms.

These tops often include built-in pockets for prostheses or structured, padded cups to help create shape and stability. When trying on mastectomy bikini tops, make sure the straps feel comfortable and provide enough support for your body shape.

If you’ve had a unilateral (single) mastectomy or a lumpectomy and are concerned about balance, there are plenty of options that can help minimize the appearance of asymmetry. Design details like ruching, prints, ruffles, or darker colors can help create a more even, flattering look.

For more coverage or sun protection when you’re out of the water, consider pairing your mastectomy bikini top or swim bra with a sarong, wrap, or other cover-up.

Mastectomy swim dresses, rash guards, and other full-coverage swimwear options provide more coverage than many other styles.

Some have long sleeves and high necklines. Others have bottoms that fit like skirts or shorts. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, take your time and try a variety of styles to find the level of coverage that feels right for you.

These styles can be especially helpful if you’re looking for added sun protection or prefer to keep your chest and surgery scars fully covered while you enjoy the beach or pool.

Some also choose these styles when going flat, as they offer a comfortable fit without the need for prostheses.

If you have a swimsuit you already own and love, a tailor or seamstress might be able to help you turn it into mastectomy-friendly swimwear with a few small changes.

Here are some ways to improve fit and comfort based on your post-surgery needs:

• Add pockets for prostheses.
• Adjust strap lengths or widths for better support.
• Add extra straps for stability.
• Insert soft cups or padding for shape and coverage.

This option can be especially helpful if you have a swimsuit you feel good in but just need a few adjustments to better suit your post-surgery body. In some cases, you might find that changes aren’t needed at all.

One member of MyBCTeam said, “I had a single mastectomy and am undergoing reconstruction. My breasts are different sizes right now, but many of my old underwire swimsuits compress enough that you can barely tell I’m asymmetric.”

Talk With Others Who Understand

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

What kind of post-mastectomy bathing suit have you found to be the most comfortable? Let others know in the comments below.