Recommendations for a plus-size front-closure compression bra?

January 21, 2023 12:28 AM

Had lumpectomy surgery on 11/29/22 and all went well, pretty good pathology report (clear margins, etc). But since my surgery I've had to have that breast aspirated twice due to swelling and just last week during my initial radiation appointment (the "staging" bit) the doctor said that the breast looked "red and angry" and I was sent back to my surgeon who prescribed a course of strong antibiotics. But I'm thinking that part of the problem is my lack of a compression bra. I've been wearing a stretchy cotton camisole (my usual undergarment; I'm not a bra-wearer) and from some other comments the doctor made it appears that if I wear a proper compression bra the support would help the fluid to drain and my incision to heal.

I'm in no shape to go bra shopping in person, so I'm trying to find one online. My husband measured me per the instructions on the A Bra That Fits website, and according to the chart I'm a 46E in the UK and a 46DDD/F in the US (which is where I'm located). I've been browsing through numerous websites and sometimes the bra looks exactly like what I'm looking for (front closure, no underwire, comfy enough to sleep in) but then the size guide is so non-specific; simply S, M, L, SL, etc.

Anyone have any recommendations for an online source for a (hopefully) compression cotton bra with a front closure that doesn't ride up into the armpit area? I have to wear it 24/7 so it would be nice to have it comfy enough to sleep in. (I'm not looking for sexy, just comfort and support.)

posted by anonymous to Health & Fitness (11 answers total)

Does your medical office offer any referrals for this? Here in the states, many mastectomy/lumpectomy patients are referred to a specialty store (can be online). It can’t hurt to ask.
Failing that, check out or join an appropriate FaceBook group. These are usually private, but can be offer a lot of specific suggestions and links.
You might look for a soft compression bandage that would fit.
I’m sorry I don’t have more specific advice.
posted by dbmcd at 1:26 AM on January 21, 2023 [2 favorites]

M&S have a really good range of post surgery bras in the UK, in proper sizes, and they ship clothing internationally.

Again in the Uk Macmillan have a great breast cancer forum with loads of advice, and perhaps someone there can point you to other international stockists.

FYI - and I am not a doctor - my partner was told to wear a post surgery bra for six months after surgery.
posted by mani at 2:14 AM on January 21, 2023 [1 favorite]

You might want to try the Enell Lite Full-Figure Wire-Free Sports Bra.

Enell got some attention on Oprah for making a plus-size sports bra that holds everything in, hooks in the front (it sort of looks like a short crop top), and makes it possible for plus-size and busty women to exercise vigorously without our breasts bouncing around.

Anyway, the Enell Lite is a less compressive version of the original Enell.

The company, which is based in Montana, touts it as good for less vigorous exercise, but at least one review on the site that I linked, the retailer Bare Necessities, says it works as a compression bra for reconstruction surgery recovery. (The reviewer describes herself as plus size, BTW.)

Enell has their own sizing system. They explain it on the Bare Necessities site and on Enell's own website. I think that you would be a 6 in their sizing, but if you're interested, I would double check with them first. They have an 800 number; I hear that they are very nice to deal with.

Good luck. I wish you the best.
posted by virago at 2:16 AM on January 21, 2023 [3 favorites]

So as not to abuse the edit window, here are reviews of the Enell Lite Full-Figure Wire-Free Sports Bra from the Enell website.
posted by virago at 2:22 AM on January 21, 2023

I used this Elizabeth Pink Surgical Bra for months after my surgery. I was given two at the hospital and I bought a few more because they were the only bras that worked for me. Easy to get on and off, comfortable enough to sleep in, fully adjustable and the right amount of compression.
They go up to a size 7XL and there’s size chart to convert to measurements.

Wishing you the best for your treatment and recovery.
posted by doublenelson at 2:48 AM on January 21, 2023 [1 favorite]

SheFit makes front closing sports bras in a full range of sizes, similar to Enell, but more adjustable to customize the fit. Like most of these other brands, they have their own size system, but they have a translator on their website and you can also book a virtual fitting session where a consultant will talk you through the measurements and could probably advise you on the best model for your needs.
posted by hydropsyche at 4:23 AM on January 21, 2023 [2 favorites]

Seconding shefit. The higher compression ones worked great for me after my breast surgery. Their lounge bra is now my daily bra.
posted by CleverClover at 8:12 AM on January 21, 2023 [1 favorite]

Just a quick note that US shipping might be much quicker than UK given the strikes, if you need this sooner rather than later.
posted by childofTethys at 1:33 PM on January 21, 2023

Walmart has two packs of cotton, front closure, (8 hook,) wireless two layer bras, the 46 or 48 has plenty of stretch, and are comfortable to sleep in. They are $15.99 for a two pack. They come in black, gray, pinkish, white. They are supportive enough, breathable, non binding. They will do the job you need with room enough for bandage or absorbent material. They are good for the see if they work, experiment. You will certainly be able to comfortably sleep in them. I sleep in mine, I have never slept in a bra before. I don't usually go to Walmart, but there is an immense bra selection.
posted by Oyéah at 3:08 PM on January 21, 2023 [1 favorite]

You might want something with more compression for the daytime, but these are sleepable, and they are on there, offering comfortable support.
posted by Oyéah at 3:24 PM on January 21, 2023

I used this Elizabeth Pink Surgical Bra for months after my surgery. I was given two at the hospital and I bought a few more because they were the only bras that worked for me. Easy to get on and off, comfortable enough to sleep in, fully adjustable and the right amount of compression.
They go up to a size 7XL and there’s size chart to convert to measurements.
I'm not seeing the "mark as best answer" button, so this is the best way I can thank doublenelson for the suggestion. Been wearing my Elizabeth Pink for three days now and am able to sleep comfortably in it. Thanks very much for the advice!
posted by Oriole Adams at 12:13 PM on January 30, 2023