Hi - looking for some advice on what bra to buy for post lumpectomy . I have been told that underwired bras will uncomfortable and to look for a front fastening bra for ease. I am 36g and have always needed a bra with a lot of support so struggling ……
Have a look at macom online, not cheap but very comfortable
Good luck with surgery
No date as yet but getting prepared anyway - it makes me feel that I have a little bit of control even if it is over what bra to buy 
I bought two post surgery front fastening bras from Cancer Research UK (own brand not other branded ones they sell). They are very comfortable to wear post surgery. I also bought two front fastening crop top type bras to wear at night which are also very comfortable.
I understand what you are saying about needing support (I am 34E/F) and whilst these bras are not as structured as underwired bras they are supportive and comfortable - though not particularly flattering!!
I hope this helps. Good luck x
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I bought a front hook/eye fastening from Amoena before my mastectomy and a cheap £10 front zip with wide soft band from Sainsburys. I much prefer the cheap one from Sainsburys x
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I’ve also got the ones from sainsburys which are quite comfortable, but I struggle with holding everything in whilst trying to do the zip up and I’m only a 32e 
M+S body soft front fastening post surgery bra. I’m only small breasted but this is the most comfortable supportive bra I’ve ever owned. Possibly a bit small in the cup but does go up to size H so you could go up if needed. Reasonably priced and if you order online or click and collect they automatically deduct the VAT as it’s classed as a surgical appliance . If you buy in-store you have to sign to say that you need it as such. I also wear their cami bra and their other prettier non wired bra. They so comfy I haven’t gone back to my ordinary ones . Nicola Jane have some reasonably priced ones prettier ones as well though haven’t bought yet.
Before surgery I only wore underwired bras but I’ve never worn one since .
Its good that you’re looking now as I found the support and compression to be really helpful after surgery .
Joanne x
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Hi Llanwinno,
I was advised to get a front fastening sports bra from M&S but I also struggled to fasten the zip even though it also has a hook & eye to secure it first! One piece of advice from me is to get a couple of different types of bra just in case one type does start to rub or press on any tender areas, I found alternating worked best. I found the M&S unwired, preformed post surgery cami bra very comfy & supportive, it’s back fastened but I always fasten my bras at the front & then shuffle then round to back anyway! The hook & eye one already mentioned was softer & more comfortable in bed.
Best of luck with the surgery & recovery x
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Thank you all for your advice - much appreciated . I have booked an appointment to check bra size as I have lost a stone since diagnoses . I will then look at all the companies advised - thanks again
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Hope you find something suitable and comfortable.
Xx
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Me too. I now have no idea what size I am!
I’ve bought some post surgery bras from Nicola Jane which now that I’ve had my dressing off I tend to leave empty on the right as the wound and armpit are so tender.
Doing my a exercises religiously and they are slowly getting easier, but joy are they uncomfortable. Urgh!
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I know you’re way past this stage now @casey4jc but for the first 48 hours I wore a crop top with an old M+S secret support vest over the top . Something like that might be another option for you .
Xx
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Hi @llanwinno123 , I had my second lumpectomy last week and can recommend the Asda front fastening post-surgery bras, a pack of 2 for £16, they are very soft and supportive and comfy to wear overnight. With my previous lumpectomy, I purchased M&S bras and they were also good, but the back fastening was a bit tricky post-surgery, and front-fastening is easier at appointments.
I then switched to standard bras after my first lumpectomy without underwiring which have been fine and hope to do the same this time.
Hope all goes well with the lumpectomy.
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Thank you summer-sunshine . I never thought of Asda, certainly worth a look
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I bought a two pack of crop tops from Tesco for £14, which I am enjoying around the house, when I don’t put the softie in. This is seeming to help manage the soremess, but so does keeping moving my arm, oddly. It’s a lopsided look, but there’s only me and him at home, so who cares! I also tried the vests with secret support, which are also good.
I noticed yesterday that there was quite an indentation under my arm when I took my bra off, so now I’m convinced I have lymphodaema. BC really is the gift that keeps on giving. Luckily I have a physio appointment on Friday about some cording, so I will get advice about that then too I hope.
Karen x
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Best of luck for your appointment on Friday and I hope she’s able to help you . Perhaps when the cording resolves it will allow the area to drain more easily.
Yes moving you arm does help which seems not to make sense I know. At one point I had an oil cyst stuck in the axillary tail and had a burning pulling pain across from the cyst running under my arm and down to my elbow . My breast was swollen at the time as well but although it felt tight on moving the burning sensation was much better afterwards.
Joanne. X.
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After undergoing a lumpectomy, comfort is key when it comes to choosing the right bra. Opting for a front fastening bra can make your life so much easier during the healing process. These bras are convenient and practical, as they eliminate the need to struggle with clasps at the back. Look for a soft and breathable fabric to help prevent irritation on sensitive skin post-surgery. Additionally, adjustable straps will allow you to customize the fit to your comfort level without putting any pressure on the affected area. Don’t forget to check for bras with pockets for inserts in case you need additional padding or support. Overall, prioritize comfort and functionality when choosing a bra after lumpectomy to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery journey.
Read more: https://vocal.media/lifehack/the-benefits-of-wearing-a-post-surgical-bra-after-surgery
I also recommend the front fastening ones from Asda. Dont bother wasting your money on the expensive ones. I bought one from the chinese site Temu at a cheap price. It was front fastening with 3 different lines of hooks for adjusting and when my surgeon helped me into it immediately after surgery she said it was just as good as a £50 one ! 5 months down the line i wear m&s or Asda front fastening and a soft crop top at night.
Second not spending loads of money! I wore a sports bra I already had and bought some crop tops I stepped into from Primark (£8). These are brilliant and I still wear now as they are seamless so great under closer fitting clothes and there are lots of different style matching briefs. I had the Temu ones @retallack mentioned (about £4) and slept in those initially.
After maybe six weeks I was back wearing my usual underwire bras with no issues at all. Of course it depends where your scar is and how well you have healed, but it may not be necessary to change all your bras. It may be enough just to have a couple for post op so I would suggest to people to hang fire before spending loads. x
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