Bra after mastectomy
The right choice of bra after oncological surgery Breast surgery is important both for preventing the occurrence of lymphedema, and for maintaining a good and controlled condition in case the condition has already occurred.
What are the risks of wearing an inappropriate bra?
The largest volume of lymphatic fluid (lymph) is transported in our body by relatively superficial lymphatic vessels.
Thus, it is particularly important (both preventively and therapeutically) to The smooth operation of the network should not be hindered by local ”strangulations” that a tight and inappropriate bra can cause.
How do I know if the bra is unsuitable?
Tight-fitting clothes or underwear leave a characteristic imprint on the skin.
The most typical areas that show such “cuts” from the bra are the shoulders that are burdened by the braces or peripherally the torso and the area under the chest from the tight contact of the banella.
What characteristics should a proper bra have?
- Wide straps
- Loose fit around the torso
- Avoiding bras with hard underwires
- To gently hug the chest
Additional tips for the right bra for women after mastectomy
- If the bra has small straps, add a small piece of foam under the strap as a pad to protect the area.
- We use an extension back on the bra clasp to reduce peripheral pressure on the torso and chest.
- We avoid wearing a bra at home or where circumstances do not require it.
- Avoiding heavy silicone pads
What bra should I wear if I eventually develop lymphedema?
In recent years, the significant increase in breast cancer rates and the subsequent increase in mastectomy surgeries has also led to a significant increase in lymphedema of the upper extremities and trunk.
Women with lymphedema after mastectomy can now wear special graduated compression bras.
These bras have a special design, customized accessories (straps, clasp, etc.) and materials designed so that they do not negatively affect lymphedema.
On the contrary, they are extremely comfortable, protective and promote good lymphatic circulation and lymphatic decongestion.
Using a common bra carries the risk of reduced lymphatic circulation with consequent swelling in the area and an increased likelihood of transitioning to 2nd or 3rd degree lymphedema in a short period of time.
Economou Dimitris
BSc, MLD, MT
