Mastectomy Bra Fit Guide: How to Measure and Find Your Size

Finding a bra that fits well after mastectomy surgery involves different measurements and considerations than standard bra shopping. Your body has changed, and the fitting process needs to account for that—whether you're working with a prosthesis, navigating asymmetry, or simply figuring out where to start.

This guide walks through how to measure your band and cup size post-surgery, what to look for in different mastectomy bra styles, and how to tell when you've found the right fit.

What Is a Mastectomy Bra

A well-fitting mastectomy bra has a snug, horizontal band that sits level across your back, smooth cups that contain the breast form without gaps or overflow, and straps that stay put without digging into your shoulders. The band provides about 80% of the support, so getting that fit right makes a significant difference in comfort throughout the day.

Mastectomy bras are specifically designed for people who have undergone breast surgery. Unlike regular bras, they feature built-in pockets—fabric pouches sewn into the cups—that hold breast forms or prostheses securely in place. You might also hear them called "pocketed bras" for this reason.

What sets mastectomy bras apart from standard options?

• Built-in pockets: Fabric pouches sewn into one or both cups keep breast forms stable during movement, so you're not constantly adjusting throughout the day.

• Higher necklines and underarms: Extra coverage conceals surgical scars and creates a smooth silhouette under clothing.

• Wider straps: Broader, often padded straps spread weight across a larger area, reducing pressure on sensitive shoulders.

• Soft, seamless construction: Breathable fabrics and seamless cups minimize irritation on post-surgical skin, which tends to be more sensitive than before.

How to Measure Your Band Size After Mastectomy

Your band size forms the foundation of a good fit. Since the band does most of the heavy lifting when it comes to support, accuracy here directly affects how comfortable your bra feels. Most medical professionals recommend waiting 6-8 weeks after surgery before measuring, giving your body time to heal and swelling to subside.

1. Gather your measuring tools

You'll want a soft fabric measuring tape and a mirror. Metal tape measures are uncomfortable on sensitive skin and don't flex well around curves, so stick with fabric.

2. Position the tape under your bust

Wrap the measuring tape horizontally around your ribcage, directly under your bust line. Use the mirror to check that the tape stays parallel to the floor all the way around—it's easy for it to dip or rise in the back without you noticing.

3. Record your band measurement

Pull the tape snug against your skin, but not so tight that it digs in. You want firm contact without compression. Write down the number in inches.

4. Round to your band size

Take your measurement and round to the nearest even number. So if you measure 33 inches, your band size is 34. If you land exactly on 34 inches, your band size is 34.

How to Measure Your Cup Size After Mastectomy

Cup sizing after mastectomy works differently than traditional bra fitting, and the approach depends on whether you've had a unilateral (one side) or bilateral (both sides) mastectomy.

1. Measure across the fullest part of your bust

For a unilateral mastectomy, measure from the center of your chest, over the fullest part of your remaining breast, to the center of your back. Then double that number to get your full bust measurement. For a bilateral mastectomy, wrap the tape around your chest where the fullest part of your bust would naturally fall.

2. Calculate the difference for cup size

Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement. Each inch of difference corresponds to a cup size:

Difference	Cup Size
1 inch	A
2 inches	B
3 inches	C
4 inches	D
5 inches	DD/E

3. Adjust for breast forms or prostheses

Your final cup size may shift based on the prosthesis you choose. Breast forms come in different shapes and projections, which affects how much space they take up in the cup. This is why trying on bras with your actual prosthesis gives you the most accurate sense of fit.

How to Fit a Bra After Double Mastectomy

For people who have had a bilateral mastectomy, the fitting process has one key difference: cup size becomes a personal choice rather than a calculation. Your band sizing follows the same steps outlined above, but without remaining breast tissue to measure against, you'll select a cup size based on your body frame and the look you prefer.

Many people use their pre-surgery size as a starting point, though there's no rule saying you have to match your previous proportions. Some prefer to go smaller for comfort or larger for balance with their frame. A certified mastectomy fitter can walk you through different options and help you find what looks and feels most natural.

Types of Mastectomy Bras

Different styles serve different purposes, and knowing what's available helps you find options that match your lifestyle and where you are in recovery.

Pocketed mastectomy bras

The standard style, featuring sewn-in pockets on one or both sides to hold breast forms in place. You'll find pocketed bras in everything from basic everyday styles to sports bras to special occasion options.

Soft cup mastectomy bras

Wire-free bras work well for daily comfort, especially in the early months after surgery when skin is most sensitive. Many people find soft cup styles become their everyday go-to.

Post-surgical bras

Designed for the immediate post-operative period, post-surgical bras typically have front closures so you don't have to reach behind your back. They also provide gentle compression to support healing. Your surgical team may recommend a specific style.

Mastectomy bras with underwire

For those further along in recovery who prefer the structure of traditional underwire, options exist. However, it's worth checking with your medical team first to confirm underwire is appropriate for your situation.

How to Size a Breast Prosthesis

Choosing a breast prosthesis involves more than matching your bra cup size. Weight, shape, and profile all play a role in creating a balanced, natural appearance.

• Weight: Prostheses range from lightweight foam or fiberfill forms to full-weight silicone options. Lighter forms suit active lifestyles or partial reconstruction, while full-weight silicone can help with posture and balance.

• Shape: You'll find symmetric forms (wearable on either side), asymmetric forms (designed specifically for left or right), and triangle shapes. The right choice depends on your natural breast shape and surgical outcome.

• Profile: Profile refers to how far the form projects from your chest wall. Shallow, medium, and projected options accommodate different body frames and clothing preferences.

A certified fitter can help you navigate all of these variables and find a prosthesis that complements your body.

How Tight Should a Mastectomy Bra Be

A mastectomy bra fits correctly when it feels snug and secure without being uncomfortable. The "2-finger rule" offers a practical test: you can comfortably slide two fingers underneath the band. If you can fit your whole hand under there, the band is too loose. If you can barely squeeze one finger in, it's too tight.

The band provides most of your support, so it has to be firm enough to stay in place when you raise your arms or move around. At the same time, it shouldn't restrict your breathing or leave deep red marks on your skin after you take it off.

One more thing to keep in mind: when you first buy a bra, it typically fits best on the loosest hook setting. This gives you room to tighten it as the elastic relaxes over time, extending the life of the bra.

Signs Your Mastectomy Bra Fits Correctly

You can check your bra fit at home by looking for a few key indicators. These visual and physical cues tell you whether your current bra is working or whether it's time to try a different size or style.

The band sits level around your body

The band stays horizontal all the way around your torso, front and back. If it rides up in the back, that usually means the band is too loose or the cups are too small—the bra is essentially being pulled upward.

The straps stay in place without digging

Straps remain on your shoulders without slipping off or creating painful indentations. If you're constantly pulling them up or they're leaving marks, the band probably isn't providing enough support, forcing the straps to compensate.

The center gore lies flat against your chest

The center gore—that small panel of fabric between the cups—rests flush against your sternum. If it gaps or lifts away from your body, the cups may be too large, or the style may not suit your shape.

Breast forms stay secure in the pockets

Your prostheses feel stable within the bra pockets and don't shift, rotate, or fall out during normal activity. Movement or instability suggests the pocket size or cup fit may not be quite right.

Benefits of Professional Mastectomy Bra Fitting

Working with a certified mastectomy fitter offers advantages that are difficult to replicate on your own, particularly for your first fitting after surgery. Certified fitters receive specialized training in working with post-surgical bodies and understand the nuances of different products.

• Personalized sizing: A fitter accounts for surgical changes, residual swelling, and any asymmetry to ensure an accurate fit tailored to your body right now.

• Product knowledge: Fitters know the differences between brands, styles, and prostheses and can point you toward options suited to your body type and daily activities.

• Insurance guidance: Many certified fitters help navigate coverage and reimbursement processes, since mastectomy products are often covered by insurance plans.

You can find certified fitters at specialty mastectomy boutiques, some lingerie stores, and medical supply companies. Many hospitals also have fitters on staff or can provide referrals.

Finding Your Best Fit After Mastectomy

A comfortable, well-fitting bra after mastectomy is entirely achievable with proper measurement and some patience. Expect to try multiple styles and sizes before discovering what works best—this is completely normal and part of the process.

Your body can change over time due to weight fluctuations, continued healing, or other factors, so periodic re-fitting helps maintain comfort. Most fitters recommend checking your fit at least once a year or whenever you notice changes in how your bras feel.

FAQs About Mastectomy Bra Fitting

How soon after mastectomy surgery can I be fitted for a bra?

Most medical professionals recommend waiting until initial swelling subsides and any drains are removed, typically a few weeks post-surgery. Your surgeon can provide personalized timing based on how your healing is progressing.

Can I wear a regular bra after a mastectomy instead of a mastectomy bra?

Technically yes, but regular bras lack the pockets needed to secure breast forms and may not provide adequate coverage or comfort for post-surgical bodies. For both function and comfort, mastectomy-specific bras tend to be the better choice.

What is the 2-finger rule for bra fitting?

The 2-finger rule means you can comfortably slide two fingers under the bra band. This indicates the fit is snug enough for support without being restrictively tight.

How often should I get re-fitted for a mastectomy bra?

Re-fitting is a good idea whenever you notice fit changes, experience weight fluctuation, or at least once per year. Body shape can shift over time, and regular check-ins help maintain optimal comfort.

Will my mastectomy bra size be different from my pre-surgery bra size?

Your band size typically stays similar, but cup size often changes depending on your surgery type and whether you use breast forms. A professional fitting is the most reliable way to determine your new size.