After breast surgery or if your bust is sensitive due to radiotherapy or healing scars, you will be looking for soft, comfortable bras without underwiring. Find our selection of specially-made compression bras for wear after breast reconstruction surgery.

What is a compression bra?

The compression bra, also known as a support bra, is a medical device that can be prescribed after breast surgery:  

• Breast reconstruction after mastectomy  
• A breast augmentation  
• A breast reduction 

This is a bra with a compression system designed to:   

• Take care of the breast and prevent it from moving so that the healing goes well.  
• The compression prevents the inner prosthesis or the operated tissue from moving and displacing.  
• Avoid blood clots forming in the operated area  
• Help with lymphatic circulation 

How to choose the right compression bra? 

Choosing a compression bra is essential for a good recovery and to improve skin healing. You take it with you to the hospital in a suitcase and then carry it for several weeks. It is therefore necessary to choose it carefully. First, during your preoperative appointment, ask your surgeon if you really need a compression bra. If so, also ask what level of compression you need. In addition, he will also tell you whether you need a compression bra with an additional tensioner, such as a compression band. We recommend that you use compression bras that are adapted and designed for this purpose. They have an opening in the front. If possible, prefer soft and breathable materials such as cotton. If you are looking for a cotton compression bra, we recommend the Coeur de Lys Medicoton compression bra. In addition, some compression bras are placed directly on the patient in the operating room. In this case, choose sterile bras such as the Leyla Amoena compression bra, but also the Pamela and the Sina. They are sold in a sealed bag, you take them to your surgeon who opens the bag himself. For this reason, these items cannot be tried on or returned. So be sure to take your measurements carefully. To learn more about choosing a compression bra, read our blog post: How to choose a compression bra 

Compression bra, what size? 

The size of your compression bra should be chosen carefully. If possible, try to get there early so you can find the bra that will get you through the weeks of recovery. In general, choose your usual size. When you try it on, it should hug you easily, but never hurt you or prevent you from moving or be difficult to close. If a reduction of the other breast is planned during breast reconstruction surgery, determine the final size with your surgeon beforehand. Not sure which bra size to choose? Then we recommend the Emilia de Amoena compression bra. Ultra soft, you only need your cup size, cup size is universal.

Compression bra, how long to wear? 

The compression bra is worn 24 hours a day, day and night during your convalescence. The duration of wearing a bra for breast reconstruction should be discussed with your surgeon. This can take several weeks, so be sure to choose a comfortable compression bra. Sports bras and bras, no matter what brand, cannot replace a medical aid. You risk damaging your skin, scarring and suffering constant scarring due to seams and zippers.Wearing a prosthetic swimsuit after a reconstruction? Like the sports bra, the swimsuit is not a medical compression device. It offers no support and the material is not breathable. Choose a different size bra than my usual size. It is important to choose the right size compression bra. Too big the expander will not have the desired effect, too small will squeeze your breast and therefore you will feel uncomfortable.