I was put in a surgical vest after my surgery last week. I cannot sleep in it and its really uncomfortable where the zip end digs into my upper abdomen. I’ve used it for five days and last night I was so sleep deprived and desperate I took it off. Today I have gone back to my cotton E cup well fitted and not underwired bra with a big sigh of relief. Will this be okay after five full days of healing? or should I go to M&S and invest in the bra advised on the forum? Not helping that its so hot and I’m also in surgical stockings. Thank you for any advice - I’m doing surprisingly well otherwise.
Hi piewacket
Thank you for posting.
It’s good to hear that you are doing well after your surgery last week.
It sounds like wearing the vest is uncomfortable in this heat and you have managed to keep it on for five days. In the first few weeks after surgery, most women wear a soft, non-wired and supportive bra that isn’t too restrictive. You can read more about bras after surgery for breast cancer. Often you don’t need to buy a particular bra if your own bra fits you well. However, if your team recommended a specific surgical vest after your surgery, you may wish to speak to them about this.
Talking to someone who has had a similar experience can often be helpful. Our Someone Like Me service can match you with a trained volunteer who’s had a similar experience to you. You can be in touch with your volunteer by phone or email and they can share their personal experiences to answer your questions, offer support or simply listen to how you are feeling.
You can ring the Someone Like Me team on 0114 263 6490 or email them at someone.likeme@breastcancernow.org, so they can then match you to your volunteer.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK - prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Grete
Breast Care Nurse
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