After surgery, the right breast reconstruction bra can make a world of difference to your recovery.
It’s important to have good support for the newly reconstructed breast(s) to help manage post-surgical swelling and ensure comfort during the healing period.
Surgery can be daunting, and it’s difficult to know what you can and can’t do immediately after surgery. In most cases, bras aren’t recommended immediately after breast surgery as you’ll likely have drains or dressings. From Week 2, your medical team may allow you to begin to wear a bra.
On their advice, you may want to explore a few specialist options with more flexible features to account for your ongoing recovery.
Benefits of Wearing a Breast Reconstruction Bra
Why is a breast reconstruction bra important for recovery?
- Support and Stability: It provides the necessary support to the surgical area and takes the pressure off wounds and sore areas.
- Swelling Management: It helps to manage post-surgical swelling and maintain the shape of the reconstructed breast.
- Comfort: It can reduce discomfort by offering a snug yet gentle fit.
- Confidence Boost: It can help you feel more confident and comfortable in your clothing as you try to get back to your daily routines.
Useful Features for a Breast Reconstruction Bra
With this in mind, what features are most useful when looking at bras after breast reconstruction surgery?
Soft, Breathable Fabrics
Comfort is paramount after surgery. Look for bras made from soft, breathable fabrics that are gentle on your skin. Non-irritant materials are a good choice.
Adjustable Straps and Closures
Adjustability is key to accommodate swelling and changes in breast size post-surgery. Bras with adjustable straps and closures, such as Velcro fastenings, allow you to customize the fit to your comfort level.
Front Closure
A front-closure bra is much easier to put on and take off, especially when you have limited mobility post-surgery. Ideally, you will want to avoid excessive twisting and try not to use a bra that needs to be pulled down over your head.
Wide Band
Wide bands offer better support and distribute pressure more evenly across your chest, which can alleviate discomfort.
Pocketed Design
Whilst not always essential, some reconstruction bras come with pockets that can hold breast prostheses. This feature may be useful if you’ve had a unilateral reconstruction or if you need additional shaping.
Sizing Advice For Breast Surgery
Following breast surgery, it’s extremely common to experience swelling.
With a more adjustable option, like a Velcro front closure bra, it’s possible to loosen (and tighten) the band as required. If buying less adjustable bras, it’s advised that you buy the same cup size but a bigger band size (or band extender) to account for swelling and shape changes.
Try to get professionally measured for a bra if possible, otherwise, take advantage of size guides and at-home measurements to make sure you get a good fit. For bra reconstruction, a poor fit can mean breast shape is impacted long-term if there is not adequate support.
Read more: How to find your bra size and correctly measure yourself
Tips for Wearing a Breast Reconstruction Bra
- Follow Your Surgeon’s Advice: Always follow your surgeon’s recommendations after surgery. They will advise on when you can wear a bra and any features you may need to avoid.
- Gradual Adjustment: If you find the bra uncomfortable initially, try wearing it for shorter periods and gradually increase the duration. Healing is different for everyone so it’s best to listen to your body.
- Regular Adjustment: As your body heals and changes, regularly adjust the straps and closures for optimal fit and comfort. This is where Velcro bras and front adjusting straps can be particularly beneficial.
Our Recommendation for a Breast Reconstruction Bra?
Our top recommendation for adaptable undergarments is the Springrose adaptive bra. Ideal for post surgery once the tubes have been taken out as your body is healing due to its wireless design and adjustable fit.
Made in collaboration with over 30 PTs and OTs to ensure they’re as accessible as possible, these thoughtfully crafted bras are suitable for shape changes and can be easily adjusted for a good fit.