A post-surgery compression bra is an essential garment that can improve the recovery process after breast surgery. Post-surgical care is critical to ensure optimal healing and reduce the risk of complications. Wearing a compression bra post-surgery provides comfort and support and reduces swelling, bruising, and discomfort.
Understanding the importance of post-surgery care and recovery can ensure you select the right compression bra post breast surgery to aid your healing journey.
What is a Post-Surgery Compression Bra?
Post-surgical compression bras are specialized undergarments designed to provide support, comfort, and compression to the breasts after a breast lift, reduction, augmentation, or mastectomy surgery. These post-surgical bras differ from standard bras in fabric, design, and adjustable features.
A post-surgery compression bra is made from a seamless, breathable fabric that is gentle on the skin to prevent irritation on incision sites. The braโs design features compression panels that reduce swelling and promote healing. These panels apply gentle pressure to the breast tissue, preventing fluid buildup in the surgical area.
This pressure supports the breasts and helps to stabilize them during the healing process, reducing the risk of complications such as hematomas or seromas. Compression bras also promote healing by improving circulation, which helps to bring oxygen and nutrients to the surgical area, promoting tissue repair and regeneration.
Post-surgery compression bras typically have adjustable straps and closures, allowing for a personalized fit that accommodates changing breast size and shape during the recovery.
Compression bras promote proper circulation, prevent blood clots, and reduce the risk of post-surgical complications. They can also provide emotional support and a sense of security, as many women may feel self-conscious about their appearance after surgery.
Choosing the Right Post-Surgery Compression Bra
Choosing the right post-surgery compression bra is integral to recovery after surgery. A well-fitted bra can provide the right level of support and compression to promote healing, reduce discomfort, and prevent complications like lymphedema. Some factors to consider when choosing the right post-surgery compression bra include:
Material
The braโs material is crucial in determining its comfort and durability. Look for bras made from soft, breathable fabrics that allow for easy moisture evaporation and temperature regulation, so they wonโt irritate your skin.
Cotton and cotton-polyester blends are popular for post-surgery bras because they are gentle on the skin and wick away moisture. Also, ensure the fabric has an elastic material blended into the knit for optimal compression.
Fit
A proper fit ensures the bra provides the necessary compression and support. Visit a certified fitter to take accurate measurements before purchasing a bra, and choose a size that fits snugly but is not too tight; you should only be able to fit one finger between your body and the band. Look for bras with adjustable straps and closures to ensure a good fit.
Compression Level
The level of compression required depends on the type of surgery you have had. Compression levels are measured in milligrams of mercury (mmHg). Most bras offer light compression that ranges from 15-20 mmHg. Your doctor may recommend a specific compression level, or you can consult a medical professional or a certified fitter to determine the appropriate level for your needs.
Type of Closure
Post-op bras are available with different types of closures, including front closure, back closure, and pull-on styles. Consider which type of closure will be most comfortable and convenient for you based on your mobility and range of motion.
Front closure bras are typically best for wearing immediately after surgery. They are easy to get on and off without overextending your arms and shoulders, which may be tender following breast surgery.
Accessories
During your recovery, you may have drainage tubes extending from your surgical site to help with the healing process. Look for post-surgical bras with accessories like removable drain pouches to hold tubing and drainage bulbs.
If you have had a breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants, you need a post-surgical bra that comes with a compression belt that sits on top of your chest to prevent the implants from dislocating.
Top Post-Surgery Compression Bras
At A Fitting Experience, we offer a range of high-quality compression bras from trusted brands like Amoena and Brobe. When you come in for a professional fitting, our certified fitters can accurately measure your chest wall and remaining breast tissue to find the ideal post-surgical bra for your body.
Some of our most popular compression bras include:
The Amoena Sarah Recovery Wear and Compression Bra ranges from A to DD cups and features a double-layered front panel with a central hook-and-eye closure for easy dressing. The elasticized bottom band is extra wide to prevent rolling and bunching, while molded cups and seamless construction eliminate skin irritation.
The Amoena Hannah Post Surgical Bra has integrated cup pockets to hold lightweight foam breast forms following surgery. The cotton-spandex fabric blend provides the ideal level of light compression, helping to improve blood and lymph flow, and the detachable drain pouch allows you to manage your drain tubes discreetly.
The Anita Marbella Compression Vest is compatible with an attachable chest belt to secure breast implants in the correct position. It also offers controlled compression at the underbust band, straps, and the high-cut back panel.
The Prairie Wear HuggerPrima Post Surgical Compression & Active Recovery Bra and Binder offer 360ยฐ zoned compression with four compression zones and full axilla (armpit) coverage. This makes it an excellent option for women who have undergone a lumpectomy or lymph node removal.
The Brobe Recovery Bra offers extra-light compression and is ideal as a leisure bra after your initial recovery. You need a comfortable bra for relaxing at home and sleeping in to promote healing and smooth the transition to your new body. The Brobe Recovery Bra features a ruched cup design and a Velcro front closure to prevent irritation to scar tissue and the skin on your chest wall. The built-in pockets can hold breast prostheses to help you maintain good posture or can be used for ice packs to reduce swelling.
Support Your Recovery With A Fitting Experience Mastectomy Shoppe
The right post-surgical compression bra can help speed up your recovery and reduce the risk of complications. But to find the right bra, you need a professional fitting with an ABCOP-certified fitter at A Fitting Experience Mastectomy Shoppe. Contact us at (954) 978-8287 to schedule a fitting appointment and explore our complete selection of post-surgery compression bras today!