Mastectomy and breast reconstruction pros and cons?

I too am looking for a comfortable bra. I was diagnosed in August 2024 and had unilateral mastectomy in October, three months ago. I also chose to not have reconstruction . Should I even be trying to wear a bra ? I have a sports bra with pockets for inserts but not comfortable! I recently ordered a bra with sewn in prosthetic liner from EverYou. It looks much better but after wearing it a couple of hours, I’m in misery. Even after taking it off when I return home, I am still very uncomfortable. I seem to have some swelling underarm, especially after wearing bra or any exertion. Most days I choose to wear a camisole only. Have been doing therapy at home.
I am so blessed to not need Chemo nor radiation but just thought I’d feel better by now. I had begun to feel a lot better but seem to be going in wrong direction now. Probably overdid during Thanksgiving and Christmas . This past week has not been fun … plan to call my surgeon’s office tomorrow but most times they’re not a lot of help.
Thanks in advance for any advice.

Try this. It’s great. No band at all.

Having a mastectomy and reconstruction is obviously a highly personal decision, and through this website and other research, I’ve learned that the decision is also influenced by your treatment requirements.

For anyone out there considering this decision, I will add my voice to the many articulate, smart, and thoughtful women in this feed.

I was able to begin reconstruction the day of my bilateral nipple sparing mastectomy. This process involves tissue expanders, and I will get implants next month. I was not able to go direct to implants.

I did not need chemo or radiation, which enabled me to move into reconstruction at the time of my mastectomy.

My tissue expanders can be painful. And I am, frankly, not looking forward to my next surgery which will also involve fat grafting to make the breasts smooth. However, I have chosen this option because I still want breasts.

For me, personally, I like having breasts. I am 59. I am often in a bathing suit with my 4 grandchildren. Being at the lake is part of our family lifestyle.

My reconstruction of my breasts is looking very good, and I am indebted to my plastic surgeon who has helped me feel whole again.

This is a very personal decision for every breast cancer patient.

My thanks to all of the women in this feed who share their perspectives and decision-making processes. We are all connected through breast cancer, the club we did not want to be a part of. Staying alive is the priority.