Unlocking Comfort and Confidence: Your Ultimate Guide to Mastectomy Bra Sizing

For women undergoing mastectomy or other breast surgeries, finding a bra that offers the right fit and comfort is essential. The right mastectomy bra provides the support and confidence needed during the recovery process. In this comprehensive mastectomy bra fitting guide, we’ll not only walk you through measuring for a mastectomy bra but also provide additional insights to ensure you find the perfect fit that combines support, comfort, compression, and adjustability.

Understanding the Importance of a Proper Fit

A well-fitting bra not only supports the physical changes your body will undergo but also plays a significant role in boosting your confidence. A comfortable and supportive bra can make a world of difference in your daily comfort and overall sense of confidence and well-being after surgery.

It’s extremely important to wear the right size Masthead bra, which is why we offer our bras in so many sizes! We want to ensure the best outcome for every woman. Finding the perfect fit ensures that you will get enough support, comfort, compression and adjustability with your bra.

Step 1: Gathering Your Tools for Accurate Measurements

To begin the fitting process, gather a soft measuring tape, a mirror, and a notepad to jot down your measurements. Wearing a non-padded bra or going without one will give you the most accurate measurements.

Note: If you don’t have a tape measure, use a piece of rigid string, and then measure the string with your ruler or yardstick.

Step 2: Measure Your Overbust

Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your back, aligning with your shoulder blades. Bring it around to the fullest part of your bust at the nipple line. Note your measurement in inches.

We don’t recommend using your regular bra size for reference. Lingerie bras use cup sizes and the measurement under the breast, which do not correspond reliably to Masthead bra sizes.

Step 3: Consult the Masthead Size Chart

Check our Masthead size chart to find the corresponding bra size for your overbust measurement. This chart is your roadmap to the perfect fit.

If you are in doubt, or worried that you will get swollen after surgery, consider going up one size.

Step 4: Select Your Bra Style

Beyond the basic measurements, consider any unique needs you may have. Some mastectomy bras come with pockets to hold breast forms, providing symmetry and balance. Ensure the bra style you choose aligns with your preferences and post-surgery requirements.

The Elizabeth Pink Surgical Bra, our most popular bra, is an ideal choice, particularly for those who expect to have JP drains. Featuring our patented loops and rings, it provides secure and convenient drain management.

Need more surface area of support and compression? Our Judy Long-Line Bra is a great option. If you will have JP drains, we recommend pairing this bra with our shower lanyard to hold your drains.

And for those with more than two drains, our Elizabeth Pink Surgical Bra with Convertible Loops and Rings takes it a step further, providing four loops and rings for comprehensive and drain management.

Step 5: Confirm the Perfect Fit

When you receive our bra from your hospital, surgeon or online order, check to make sure the bra feels secure and comfortable. The straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders, and the band should be parallel to the ground. You can find more instructions for Fitting and Putting on the Elizabeth Pink Surgical Bra on our site.

For online shop purchases, we’ve got you covered. We gladly offer refunds, exchanges, or replacements for any products bought from our online shop within 30 days of purchase, as long as they are in their original unused condition.

If your Masthead bra was provided by your hospital or surgeon but you need a different size, we suggest reaching out to your nurse navigator for assistance in obtaining a replacement size. Alternatively, you can effortlessly order another bra from our site. Our team is here to help, so feel free to contact us if you need any assistance or size recommendations!

Additional Tips for Determining Your Mastectomy Bra Size

Our bras are designed to fit no matter what kind of treatment you and your doctor decide is best for you. The stretch and recovery features of the state-of-the-art performance fabric in Masthead bras will mold to your post-surgery body and provide just the right amount of support and compression to optimize healing and comfort. If you are measuring before your surgery, please consider some of the following, depending on the procedure:

Wash and Care Instructions

To ensure your Masthead bra continues to function, fit, and support as designed, proper care is essential. Whether you choose handwashing or opt for the gentle cycle on your washing machine, using a mild detergent with cold or warm water can significantly prolong the life of your bra.

Before washing, securely close any Velcro tapes to prevent them from sticking to the bra or other clothing. For added protection, consider placing the garment in a lingerie bag during the washing process. After washing, we recommend laying the bra flat or hanging it to air-dry. Do not put the bra in the dryer.

In the case of blood or serous fluid stains, begin by soaking the affected area in cold water before washing. For stubborn stains, the use of an oxygen bleach is recommended to effectively remove them, ensuring your Masthead bra maintains its pristine condition and continues to provide the support and comfort it was designed for.

Embracing Comfort and Confidence in Your Mastectomy Bra

Finding the right mastectomy bra is an exercise in self-care and empowerment. By taking the time to measure properly and consider your individual needs, you’re investing in your recovery, comfort and confidence. You deserve a bra that not only fits perfectly but also celebrates your strength and beauty.

At Masthead, our commitment is to help you find the perfect bra that not only fits you, but also puts you in charge of your healing journey. Use this Mastectomy Bra Fitting Guide as a roadmap to finding a recovery bra that feels right for you. If you have uncertainties, consult your healthcare provider or reach out to our team—we’re here to support you every step of the way.