Having a mastectomy is a life-changing experience.
But drawing from our own personal journeys; we know that shopping for a post surgery bra can be as much of a daunting prospect. Crazy right? But let's face it, shopping for a well fitting, comfortable, attractive bra can be tricky for all women! Never mind understanding what support you need for which part of your recovery journey. Balancing practicality with a desire to have something that doesn't feel or look like a beige compression tube ... a bit of colour, a bit of lace...is it too much to ask?
We feel that it shouldn't be such an ordeal. Our post-surgery bra fitting experiences were terrible! Finding a professional, knowledgeable and impartial bra fitting service after breast cancer surgery was seemingly quite the challenge. Was wearing ugly, ill-fitting bras really the best it was going to get? Thankfully, we're here to tell you NO! ...you have options.
HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT MASTECTOMY BRA FOR YOU
The best advice we can give to anyone looking for the perfect mastectomy bra is to get fitted. We offer both Virtual and Face to Face appointments at home or in our central London location. Your shape and size may change during and after treatment, so it’s a really good idea to have your bra size accurately measured before you buy any new bras.
From lymphedema swelling, nerve sensations, scar sensitivity, any skin changes from radiotherapy to settle down, numbness, these are all things you may experience post-operation. The sensitive post-surgery period is a time when you shouldn't have to compromise on comfort and convenience...so read on for our edit of tried and tested recommendations for the first stage of your recovery.
Anita Lynn Post Mastectomy Bra
A sporty look and uncomplicated comfort from this seamless mastectomy crop top from Anita Lynn. Super soft and breathable to ensure comfort, it opens at the front with a full-length zip for ease.
The removable moulded pads in the double-layer cups, which conceal as well as support, create a natural looking silhouette. Comfortably wide, soft straps round off the "second skin" comfort. Available in pink (we love!) and black, you can find it on our website here.
Royce Eden Front Fastening Bra
The Eden Front Fastening comfort bra from Royce, featuring super soft 87% organic cotton and a front fastening lined zipper (making it so much easier to open and close) is soft against the skin and smooth under clothing.
The wide under band is super soft and straps are padded, making this one our comfiest bras available! Available in grey marl, Eden is wire-free and comes with cotton lining/pockets as standard. You can find it on our website here.
Reco Post-Surgical Bra
With it's seamless design, breathable stretch fabric and integrated support with shoulder strap and front opening, the Reco is a highly reassuring post-surgical option that makes wearing the garment 24 hours doable, thus accelerating recovery time.
It has been designed specifically for the immediate post-surgery stage following any types of breast cancer and will nurture and protect sensitive skin. Available in 3 colours, you can find it on our website here.
Royce Blossom Bra | Black & White Polka Dot
Featuring a charming vintage-inspired Polka dot print, the Blossom Bra from Royce Lingerie is a clever and innovative design that allows you to adjust the shape of the bra to adapt it to your style or needs.
Pocketed, super soft, with a wide under-band and wide straps, it’s a fabulous choice for this first stage of your recovery where comfort is key.
You can find it on our website here.
LoveRose | Lights Down Low Non-Pocketed Wire-Free Bra | Luxe Green & Lotus Pink
100% a sexier option but the front fastening does makes it suitable for immediate post surgery...it's called having your cake and eating it!
This wire-free bra is a fantastic option for women who have had reconstruction, lumpectomy or breast enhancement surgery and don’t require a pocket in their post surgery bra.
The silk mix and silk covered underband provide soft support and comfort. You can find it on our website here.
Having gone through a single mastectomy without reconstruction surgery (Sarah) and a double mastectomy with reconstructions (Kate) we have learned so much about the world of post mastectomy bras, and how to feel confident after breast cancer surgery. We're here to help so please get in touch hello@brasisters.co.uk. Wearing the right size bra will make you – and your boobs – feel much happier. Whatever your age, style, taste and needs, we're here to help you find a bra that will make you feel confident, beautiful and positive about your future.
And don't forget, women who have had breast surgery (mastectomy or lumpectomy) are eligible not to pay the VAT on mastectomy bras, mastectomy swimwear and mastectomy breast forms. This means we are able to sell you mastectomy products without adding on 20% VAT, contact us if you'd like more information about this or are unsure if you qualify.