Pair medical guidance with prosthesis tips, insurance questions, and supportive styles for every stage of recovery.
This guide complements—not replaces—recommendations from your surgeon or oncology team. Always follow professional medical advice.
Healing timelines vary. Use these milestones to complement the plan you create with your healthcare team.
Obtain medical clearance before switching from compression garments to everyday bras. Your surgeon or oncology nurse will advise when fittings are safe.
Reminder: Focus on incision health first—fit goals come second.
Use the measurement log template only after swelling stabilises. Record differences between sides if surgery was unilateral.
Reminder: Expect changes over months; revisit notes after each follow-up visit.
Certified mastectomy fitters provide pocketed bras, prostheses, and alteration support. Bring prescriptions and insurance paperwork to appointments.
Reminder: Most insurers require fittings at accredited boutiques or hospitals.
Measure gently and only when cleared to do so. Comfort and scar care matter more than hitting exact numbers.
Ideal for early recovery or temporary wear. They reduce strain on incisions and are easy to hand wash.
Care tip: Store in breathable bags. Replace once compression garments are no longer needed.
Offer realistic weight and movement. Available as attachable forms or for pocket bras.
Care tip: Clean with mild soap after each wear. Dry thoroughly before storing in the case provided.
Helpful after lumpectomies or asymmetry. Fill in volume differences under clothing.
Care tip: Track changes in swelling so your fitter can adjust thickness or shape.
Prescribed immediately after surgery to manage swelling. Follow medical instructions strictly.
Easier to fasten without raising arms. Look for soft seams, high necklines, and adjustable straps.
Spacer fabric or modal designs distribute pressure gently once incisions heal.
Sports and swim bras with prosthesis pockets support movement after rehabilitation clearance.
Bring the printable checklist to every phone call or appointment so you capture codes, contacts, and next steps.
Keep the resource directory handy so you can log fitter recommendations, nonprofit grants, and insurer notes after each conversation.
Accredited professionals (ABC, BOC) provide fittings, prostheses, and alterations tailored to your recovery stage.
Many cancer centres host boutiques or partner with nonprofit programs offering grant-funded bras and forms.
Some fitters offer virtual check-ins to adjust strap placement or prosthesis alignment between visits.
Connect with survivor-led organisations for peer mentorship, counselling, and practical recovery advice.
Always confirm specifics with your medical team—these answers provide general guidance only.
Only after your surgeon confirms incisions are healed and swelling is under control. Transition gradually from medical compression garments to pocketed or wire-free bras while monitoring comfort.
Start with lightweight forms if you feel shoulder or scar sensitivity. During fittings, a certified fitter will help match weight, shape, and size to your frame.
Many health plans cover several bras and prostheses per year with proper documentation. Use the printable checklist to capture required codes and paperwork during insurance calls.