The Right Fit Beyond Post-Surgery: Finding Your Long-Term Bra Solution
As you move further beyond your surgery, it’s natural to wonder what kind of bras will work best for you. About six weeks post-surgery, you may be ready to start exploring different options—whether that means trying on your old bras or considering new ones that cater to your needs now. While some women may find their pre-surgery bras still work, others may need to explore new styles, especially if underwires or certain features cause discomfort.
At Bra Fitting Wisdom, we’re here to guide you through the process of finding the right bras that fit your body and your lifestyle. Whether you’ve had a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or breast reconstruction, there are plenty of bra options available to suit your needs.
Bras Made for Life After Surgery
Bras designed for women post-surgery come with specific features that provide both comfort and support. Even if you don’t need a pocket for a breast form, these bras are ideal for any woman who has had breast surgery due to their thoughtful construction. Here are some of the key characteristics to look for:
- Soft Cups (Wire-Free): Bras with soft cups help prevent discomfort or irritation on sensitive areas, such as scar tissue, while providing gentle support.
- Wider Side Bands: These offer greater support and can help conceal surgery scars under the arms, providing a smooth appearance under clothes.
- Thicker, Padded Straps: Designed for greater comfort, these straps help reduce the strain on your shoulders and are especially beneficial if you’re managing lymphoedema.
- Higher Coverage Cups: These provide more coverage of the breast area, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for everyday wear.
The pocket feature in many of these bras adds an extra layer of thickness to the cups, which many women prefer to prevent nipples from showing—especially if they only have one nipple or none after surgery.
Which Bra Is Right for You?
Choosing the right bra is a personal decision. It depends on your lifestyle, your wardrobe, and most importantly, your comfort level. Below are some of the options that may be a good fit for you:
- Soft Cup Bras: Ideal for all types of surgery, these bras are gentle on sensitive skin and scar tissue. However, they can be hard to find in regular lingerie shops, which is why we recommend visiting a professional fitter who specialises in post-surgery bras.
- Wire Bras: While underwire bras can still be worn after surgery, it’s important to ensure they are correctly fitted. The breast tissue should sit comfortably in front of the wire, and the centre of the bra should sit snugly between the breasts. Take extra care if you have a reconstructed breast, as you may not have full sensation and won’t be able to feel if the wire is irritating your skin. Wearing underwire bras isn’t recommended until at least 12 months post surgery.
- Contoured/Padded Bras: If your breasts are uneven, contoured bras with slight padding can help provide a smooth appearance under clothing, giving the illusion that both breasts are even.
- Front-Fastening Bras: If arm movement is restricted due to surgery or other medical issues, front-fastening bras can provide ease and comfort. They offer the same level of support as traditional bras and, if needed, can include a pocket for breast forms.
- Sports Bras: Finding a comfortable, supportive sports bra is essential for maintaining an active lifestyle post-surgery. Opt for wire-free designs that offer support without causing discomfort. Some sports bras also have front zippers, making them easy to put on and take off while still providing excellent support during exercise.
My Top Tips Beyond Post-Surgery
Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind as you continue on your journey of finding the right bras after surgery:
- Take Your Time: There’s no rush to be fitted—listen to your body and trust yourself to know when you’re ready both physically and emotionally.
- Bring Your Old Bras: When going for your first bra fitting post-surgery, bring along some of your pre-surgery bras. You might be surprised by what still works and what doesn’t.
- Find a Specialist Fitter: Look for a lingerie retailer like Bra Fitting Wisdom in Birdwood, South Australia, or Colleen’s in Canberra, ACT, that offers a wide selection of post-surgery bras or can order specific bras for you. Both locations specialise in post-surgical fittings and are dedicated to helping you find the right bra for your unique needs.
- Ask for Recommendations: Talk to other women who have had similar surgeries—they can often provide valuable advice on where to shop and what styles have worked best for them.
- Don’t Throw Away Dresses or Tops: Many women worry they won’t be able to wear their pre-surgery clothes, but there are a variety of lingerie options available that will allow you to continue dressing in the same style.
- Private Health Funds: Some Health Funds will reimburse you for the purchase of mastectomy bras. Check with them to see what you may be able to claim.
Your First Fitting: What to Expect
If it’s been six weeks since your surgery, you might be ready for your first professional bra fitting. During this fitting, we’ll help you assess what bras might still work for you and what new options are available. Whether you’ve had a lumpectomy, mastectomy, or reconstruction, the goal is to ensure that your bras not only fit your new shape but also suit your lifestyle and daily needs.
Remember: The bras you choose to wear after surgery are a personal choice. We’re here to guide you through that choice and help you find the fit that works for you—whether it’s a soft cup bra, a padded bra, or a sports bra for your active life. At Bra Fitting Wisdom, we believe that you should feel comfortable, supported, and confident as you move forward.