After any type of breast reconstruction, it is important to find a bra that fits and flatters your body to help you regain your confidence and feel more feminine. In addition, both breast cancer surgery and breast reconstructive surgery require an adequate environment afterward for healing and recovery.

This includes the use of specifically designed bras and other post-surgical items that can help ensure a successful recovery. A certified fitter at A Fitting Experience Mastectomy Shoppe can help you to find the perfect post-surgical bras to add to your wardrobe.

What You Should Know About Breast Reconstruction

Start discussing your reconstruction options with your plastic surgeon before you have your mastectomy. Your breast surgeon will go over the types of reconstruction surgery available, including flap reconstruction, and which is the best option for you.

For example, if you had a partial mastectomy, you may need a partial flap reconstruction to act as a tissue expander. Or perhaps you’d like your breasts to be smaller or larger than your natural breasts because you’ve always had a desire to change that part of your body.

Breast reconstruction can occur at the same time as the mastectomy. Both surgical teams need to collaborate for this to take place. However, radiation therapy may cause your doctor to delay reconstructive surgery because your body is more vulnerable to infection during this treatment.

While getting breast reconstruction, some women also consider nipple reconstruction. This gives the appearance of a nipple and areola for a more realistic appearance to the breast skin. Whether or not to get a reconstructive surgery is a personal decision for each woman to make, and understanding the basics of the surgery can help when making your considerations.

 Anita Carroll seamless and wire-free mastectomy bra

Why You’ll Need New Bras After Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Breast surgeons confirm that reconstructed breast implants differ in shape and bust sizes in comparison with natural breasts, which means your old bras will no longer fit comfortably or offer the right support. Mastectomy bras are designed for women who face a unique set of challenges following breast cancer and breast reconstruction surgery.

Determining which bra is right for you will depend on what kind of surgery you had, and finding the right fitting bra that gives you adequate support can prevent any neck and back pain. Comfort features such as wide underbust bands prevent skin irritation and constriction, as well as smoothing the back area and giving you a flattering silhouette.

The best all-around bra for women following a breast reconstruction bra is something seamless and wire-free to ensure that the sensitive areas around the surgical site are protected and supported. The Anita Carroll seamless and wire-free mastectomy bra provides comfort and softness with fine microfiber fabrics and padded straps.

What to Expect at a Fitting

Up to 80% of women wear the wrong bra size, which is not only unflattering to your figure but can also impact your posture and health. A certified fitter is trained to understand the differing needs of women’s bodies to find you a selection of bras that are right for you.

During a professional bra fitting, the fitter will take tape measurements of your underbust to find the band size, and measure over the fullest part of your bust to find the amount of breast projection. The cup size is determined by how far your breasts project from the chest wall rather than the total volume of breast tissue. After they measure your bust, the fitter can then use these measurements to find you the correct sized bra.

As different bra brands often have different sizing, you cannot assume that you will be the same size from one bra to another. At A Fitting Experience Mastectomy Shoppe, our certified fitters are knowledgeable about the full range of bras we have available and can recommend which size is more suitable for your body shape.

Finding the Perfect Fit

It is important to try on bras before you purchase them to find the most comfortable fit. Our certified fitters understand there are a few key features to look for when trying on a new bra.

Correct Band Size

The right band size is important for a comfortable wearing experience and reduces the amount of support needed by the straps to reduce shoulder pain. The correct sized band should fit snugly but not ride up or dig in. There should be no space between the band and your body. A good way to check the band fit is to take the straps off your shoulders. If the bra stays put, then you have found the right size.

Correct Band Size

Proper Cup Size and Shape

The correct cup size ensures you have a smooth silhouette. Your breast should fill the entire cup without spilling out the tops of sides of the cup, and there should be no gaps around the cup. Different types of cups offer different levels of shaping.

Comfortable Straps

Straps do most of the heavy lifting when it comes to supporting your breasts, so it is vital to have the right style of straps to avoid neck and back pain.

If you have larger breasts, a wide strap can help to provide better support by more evenly distributing the weight of your breasts across the back. Adjustable straps can also help you to find a more comfortable fit.

Center Panel

The panel between the bra cups separates the breasts and helps to create more definition and can also indicate whether you are wearing the correct cup size. The panel should sit flat against your sternum. If it doesn’t it means that the cup is not deep enough and you should try a bigger cup size.

Post-Surgical Features

In addition to finding the perfect fit in your post-surgical and mastectomy bras, it is important to find a bra that has certain features that will support your healing process. Front closures minimize twisting and turning when your range of motion is limited. Wide straps and bands can minimize friction and rub in areas that are highly sensitive and healing. Seamless fabrics allow an ideal level of comfort and protection to the vulnerable chest areas.

Final Thoughts

The right fitting bra can give you the boost of confidence you need after breast reconstruction surgery. Call A Fitting Experience Mastectomy Shoppe on (954)-568-8904 to speak with our friendly and experienced staff about how we can help you find the perfect fitting bra.

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