Shirt shopping Very Aggravating

Sadly, I never had big boobs before or after. Somone will reply to you here, but for now go to http://www.breastcancer.org. I found so much info in 2021 before i found Mayo connect and there were many topics on mastectomy, bra fit and all that. You can come back here and share what you learned!!

My situation is different but I had trouble with bras rolling up from the bottom so I know what you’re talking about. Frustrating, because the sports bras seemed like they’d be a good solution.
I really like The Busted Tank, started by two breast cancer survivors. They are extremely helpful. It’s online only - but they encourage women to email their specific needs and they problem solve it. Link below.
I was a DD, but had breast conserving surgery on the cancer side, and a mastoplexy on the other. Because I had less radiation than they originally planned, the right breast ended up larger and slightly higher than the left. The Busted Tank suggested 2 different size breast forms, fit into their soft bra (which didn’t roll up) and it was perfect. The left had enough support and thickness to lift it to match the right.

If you’re going to be fitted, they may have a good solution for you.
I’ve found that some people just really don’t understand. I don’t know why the bra band rolls, maybe my lower ribs stick out, or even though my BMI is 22 my stomach sticks out enough to make it roll when I sit down. But its a thing! I hope you find a comfortable bra! Best wishes to you!
https://www.bustedtank.com/pocketed-mastectomy-bras-post-breast-surgery-bras

You did not mention if you had reconstruction or if you’re using prosthetics. I was a 36DDD before surgery. I chose a flat closure. I tried a few prosthetic options - none of which worked. The pads move independently (sometimes migrating to my armpit or my neck, ugh). I prefer to be flat and love it. I typically wear button up shirts with double pockets or scarves for camouflage. But I wear t shirts and swimsuits with no padding and I don’t get weird looks or anything. And I often see other flatties in the wild.

If you had reconstruction and need support a bra tank would probably solve the issue. But it would be hot in the summer.

I am 7 weeks out and went down a size in tops…(from xxl to xl). I also got cotton tanks to wear under my clothes (rather than a bra). I’ve elected for a flat closure as well…

I’ve gone flat and now wearing very loose graphic t-shirts. I don’t wear prostheses. I use Busted Tank inserts for swimming. They are comfortable and not heavy.

@dmr4ever I did not have reconstruction so I am flat. I haven't quite got used to not feeling anything between my chest and shirt. It's getting better and I have been out to stores without anything. Your right everyone is too busy with their own lives to even notice. Even if they did most people would not want to be rude. My bra fitting is in later April.

@teresawhite I did not even think about the cotton tank. That sounds like it would work. I live in South Alabama though and it's extremely hot in the summers. I will have to try it and see.

I was not able to wear my prosthetic. It irritated my skin as I would sweat and ache from the weight of it.
I bought the Hanes front hook cotton bras. Those were very comfortable but offered little support for my other breast. I am trying Wagner bras now (5.5 years out). But I have problems with the back hooks.
I have come to the realization that I will always be lopsided.
To camouflage, I buy colorful shirts with designs. No solid colors!

@srobinet I got mine super cheap (5.00 @ Walmart), I sleep in them and wear them under tops…I live in southern MO….

@teresawhite
Yes! Walmart and thrift stores are a great resource for cheap shirts until the breast area heals. Even once you heal, those nothing sources provide an excellent product.
I find that sometimes my comfort needs change daily or weekly. So having many nothing choices are the best options.