The Best Bras And Post-Op Products For Mastectomies
By Tessa Flores, published on October 26, 2022
Breast surgeons and mastectomy patients recommend these bras and skin gels for post-op comfort.
The reasons for undergoing a mastectomy or any breast-related surgery are as varied as the individuals who have them. For Sharon Wieser, a 3-year post-op patient, having a prophylactic double mastectomy at the age of 45 meant potentially saving her from developing breast cancer due to a genetic predisposition.
Since her surgery, a few things have changed for her — namely, the kind of bras she wears. “Underwire will never work for me again. [The] shape and give is not the same since surgery,” Wieser told HuffPost.
According to Dr. Kelly Killeen, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Cassileth Plastic Surgery and Bedford Breast Center, most post-op patients are comfortable with a bra that has mild compression, is thin and made of a breathable fabric with a front closure — all important things since, initially, the bra is worn around the clock during early recovery
“Thick bands and straps also make the 24-7 bra wear required more comfortable. Additionally, racerback bras are typically easier to tolerate for longer periods of time,” Killeen said.
Wherever your breast surgery and subsequent bra shopping journey takes you, Killeen said, “Be kind to yourself and allow your body time to heal. Even if you feel fine after one week, it’s a stressful, emotional process and you deserve some time to process.”