What are Surgical Mastectomy Bras and Breast Prostheses?
Are there different types of recovery bras for different types of breast surgeries?
Yes. The type of surgical recovery bra that is right for you can depend on the type of breast surgery you are having and what stage of recovery you are in. Different bras are designed to provide different levels of support, different levels of compression, and various types of comfort during the healing process.
Mastectomy: Post-Surgical Camisole
After a mastectomy, a post-surgical camisole can be a comfortable option to wear immediately after surgery and on your journey home from the hospital. It is a garment that you can wear throughout the full 4-6 week healing period before being fit with a breast prosthesis and surgical mastectomy bra.
It is made from soft, comfortable fabric and provides light support for the remaining natural breast, if applicable. The post-surgical camisole also come with non-weighted shapers that can provide a natural breast shape under clothing while you are healing. It is important not to have weight on your incisions while you're healing (4-6 weeks).
They also include drain management pouches to help securely hold your surgical drain tubes during the first several days after surgery, when drains are commonly still in place (often 7-10 days after surgery).
Lumpectomy: Compression Bra
Following a lumpectomy, a compression bra can provide secure, gentle support while your breast heals.
The compression and supportive design can help provide comfort and reduce swelling during the recovery period.
There are a variety of compression bra styles available, and finding the right one can depend on your individual surgery, body, and recovery needs.
The best way to find what feels most comfortable for you is to come in for an appointment and try on different styles. Our fitter will explain the benefits and considerations of each option, take your individual situation into account, and help you choose the style that is right for you.
Breast Reconstruction or Augmentation: Compression Bra
A compression bra will be recommended to for reconstruction recovery to provide support, reduce swelling, and help your new breasts heal properly. You will be required to bring it to the hospital with you on the day of your surgery so you will need to get this ahead of your surgery. Your surgical team will put the compression bra on you at the end of your procedure, so you will wake up from surgery already wearing it.
The type of reconstruction you have had can determine which compression garment and accessories are most appropriate for you.
For example, following reconstruction with breast implants, your surgeon may recommend a compression bra together with a compression belt and drain management pouches. This combination can provide proper support to prevent implant migration within the chest wall during healing.
Breast Reduction: Compression Bra
After a breast reduction, a compression bra provides gentle, secure support while your breasts heal. The compression will help to minimize movement, reduce swelling, and provide comfort during the early stages of recovery. It is also front-opening for ease of donning and doffing right after surgery.
Your surgeon will recommend the type of compression bra that is appropriate for your surgery, with the compression vest being an excellent choice and physician favourite. You will be asked to bring it with you to the hospital on the day of your surgery, so your surgical team can put it on you at the end of your procedure and you can wake up wearing it.
If you're unsure what you will need after your surgery, we're happy to help you understand your options and make sure you have the appropriate garment ready for your recovery.
What are surgical mastectomy bras?
Unlike a traditional bra, a surgical mastectomy bra has discreet pockets inside the cups to securely hold a breast prosthesis (also called a breast form) in place. The bras are also thoughtfully designed to provide balanced support, including the additional weight of a breast prosthesis.
Surgical mastectomy bras are specially designed to provide comfort, support, and confidence after breast surgery. But they’re not just medical garments, they can be beautiful, feminine, and designed to fit seamlessly into your everyday life.
Surgical mastectomy bras are designed with both comfort and style in mind. They are made with soft, breathable fabrics that are especially gentle on sensitive or healing skin. Many of the fabrics we carry are OEKO-TEX® certified.
Most of our surgical mastectomy bras are wire-free, providing gentle, comfortable support without the pressure of an underwire. However, we do also carry a selection of underwire styles for those who prefer them and are suitable for them.
From the fabric and construction to the cup shape and support, every detail is carefully considered to provide comfort and functionality without sacrificing beautiful style.
Do surgical mastectomy bras come in a variety of styles?
Absolutely!
We believe comfort and confidence should go hand in hand. Our collection includes a wide variety of styles, colours, fabrics, and designs, so you don’t have to settle for a bra that feels purely medical.
Our collection includes:
- T-shirt and lightly lined bras
- Unlined bras
- Lace and elegant styles
- Strapless bras and bra solutions
- Sports bras
- Cotton bras
- Wire-free styles
- Underwire styles
- Front-opening bras
- Everyday essentials and more
Whether you’re looking for something simple and comfortable or something beautiful and feminine, we’re here to help you find a style that feels like you.
We proudly offer the largest selections of surgical mastectomy bras in Canada, with our styles kept in stock so you can shop and take your selections home the same day as your appointment. Prefer to online shop? Your order will ship right away.
Will you have my size? How will you know my size?
We offer an extensive size range from 32AA to 52G, with a variety of cup shapes and styles to accommodate different body types, ages, lifestyles, preferences, and needs.
Your fitter will determine your size through professional measurements and by assessing how different styles fit your body. Bra sizing is not simply about taking a measurement; cup shape, breast or chest wall shape, symmetry, and the style of the bra can all affect the fit.
Your appointment is dedicated entirely to you. Your experienced fitter will explain the process as you go, answer your questions, and help you understand why a particular size and style works for your body.
Our goal is to find a fit that feels comfortable, secure, supportive, and flattering.
Finances: Could my bras be covered by private insurance? What If I don't have Insurance, am on social assistance, or need financial aid?
Private Insurance
Many private insurance plans provide coverage for surgical mastectomy bras and related garments. However, coverage varies from one plan to another.
We recommend contacting your insurance provider before your appointment to confirm your specific coverage and any requirements for reimbursement.
If you need documentation or assistance with the insurance process, our team is happy to help guide you through it with care and discretion.
Many of our clients find estimate letters ahead of their appointment helpful because it allows them to compare their spending against their expected reimbursement. If you do not have private insurance, or wish to purchase anything beyond your insurance coverage, you can use our receipts as medical deductions at tax time.
Tax-Exempt
Because surgical mastectomy bras are medical garments, they are also tax-exempt from HST when purchased for their intended medical purpose.
Social Assistance & Financial Aid
On Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) or Ontario Works (OW)? Contact us as we will need to submit an estimate letter to your social worker before scheduling your appointment to confirm payment approval.
Need financial assistance? Check out our Support Resources page for charities that help women with financial assistance.
Can I Wear These Bras If I Haven’t Had Breast Surgery?
Absolutely.
You do not need to have had breast surgery to shop with us. Many of our clients come to us simply because they are looking for exceptional comfort, support, and thoughtful bra design.
Mastectomy bras have pockets on both sides of the bra, which means they can accommodate a breast prosthesis on one side while comfortably fitting a natural breast on the other. If you don’t need a prosthesis, the pockets simply provide an additional layer of softness and structure inside the cups.
Many of our bras also feature soft, breathable, high-cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics that can provide an added level of comfort.
Our extensive size range and variety of cup shapes make these bras a wonderful option for many women, including those who are looking for additional support and gentle containment as their bodies change over time.
Can I continue to buy bras from Dianne's Mastectomy after reconstruction?
Absolutely.
Our collection is designed to support women at many different stages of their journey, including after breast reconstruction.
After reconstruction, many women prefer the gentle support of a wire-free bra, particularly while tissues are healing and changing. The majority of our collection is wire-free, with styles designed to provide support and structure without digging into the skin or placing unnecessary pressure around sensitive areas.
As with any bra following breast surgery, the right style depends on your individual healing process, comfort, and the recommendations of your healthcare team. Your fitter can help you explore options that feel comfortable and appropriate for where you are in your journey.
If you have had breast surgery, you may also have coverage available through your private insurance plan for eligible mastectomy bras. We can help you understand the documentation you may need.
Whether you use a breast prosthesis, have had reconstruction, or simply want a more comfortable and supportive bra, our goal is the same: to help you find something that feels good, fits beautifully, and gives you confidence.
What is a breast prosthesis?
A breast prosthesis is a form worn inside a pocketed bra or swimsuit to restore shape, balance, and symmetry after breast surgery—or simply to provide balance when there is natural asymmetry.
There are many different types, shapes, weights, and materials available. Finding the right one is about more than choosing a size. Your body, surgery, lifestyle, and personal comfort all play a role. This is why we work by appointment, to provide you privacy and personalized care during your fitting.
What are silicone breast prostheses like?
Silicone breast prostheses are designed to closely replicate the look, feel, weight, and movement of a natural breast. This is a medical item, similar to if you needed another limb replacement such as an arm or a leg.
Made from high-quality medical-grade silicone, they have a soft, natural feel and are carefully shaped to create a natural-looking contour under clothing. They are available in different shapes, profiles, sizes, and skin tones to accommodate different bodies and surgical needs.
A properly fitted prosthesis can also help restore balance and symmetry after breast surgery. For some women, restoring the weight and shape of the breast can make a noticeable difference in how their body feels and how clothing fits.
The goal is a result that looks natural, feels comfortable, and allows you to move through your day with confidence.
Are there alternatives to silicone breast prostheses?
Each type of breast form has its own benefits. During your fitting, we can explain the differences and help you determine which option feels right for your body and your everyday life.
Recovery & Foam Forms
Non-weighted, fibre-filled recovery form are is used in the early stages following surgery (average recovery period 4-6 weeks). They are extremely lightweight and gentle, making them a comfortable option while your body is healing.
They provide soft shaping without adding the weight of a silicone prosthesis as you do not want weight on your healing incisions. Due to the lightweight nature, you may find that your form moves around or lifts up as you move. This will not happen with a silicone prosthetic as the weight keeps your bra in place.
Active Forms
For an active lifestyle, lightweight active forms offer a breathable alternative to traditional silicone.
They are designed to allow airflow and reduce heat retention, making them particularly comfortable for exercise, everyday activity, or warmer climates.
This is also a very affordable option for some, especially for those purchasing for family or friends overseas.
Are there different types of breast prostheses for different types of surgeries?
Yes. Breast prostheses come in many different shapes and designs because every woman's surgery and body are different.
After a Full Mastectomy
After a full mastectomy, a full breast prosthesis can help restore the shape, weight, and balance of the breast under clothing.
After a Partial Mastectomy or Lumpectomy
After a partial mastectomy or lumpectomy, a partial breast prosthesis or shaper can help fill areas where breast volume has been lost. This can create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance within your bra and under clothing.
After Breast Reconstruction
Some women also choose to use a partial prosthesis after breast reconstruction if there is a difference in size, shape, or projection between the breasts.
There are also different shapes and designs to accommodate individual chest wall contours, scars, and other post-surgical considerations. Some prostheses are designed specifically for the left or right side, while others have features that allow for additional adjustment and personalization.
Because every body is different, professional fitting is especially important. Your fitter will consider your surgery, body shape, lifestyle, and personal preferences when helping you find the right prosthesis.
I haven't had surgery, can I wear a breast prosthesis for natural asymmetry?
Absolutely.
Breasts naturally differ in size, shape, and fullness, and for some women the difference is more noticeable than they would like.
A breast prosthesis can be used to gently balance natural asymmetry, even if you have never had breast surgery. The prosthesis sits inside a pocketed bra and can provide additional volume where it is needed, creating a more balanced appearance under clothing.
For some women, this can also help clothing fit more evenly and comfortably.
If you’re considering a prosthesis for natural asymmetry, a professional fitting will help determine the appropriate size, shape, and style to create the most natural-looking balance for your body.
Can I wear a breast prosthesis after reconstruction if I need more symmetry?
Yes.
Breast reconstruction can create a beautiful result, but it is not unusual for there to be some difference in size, shape, or projection between the reconstructed and natural breast.
A partial breast prosthesis can sometimes be used to gently add volume where it is needed, helping create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance under clothing.
Because the prosthesis is worn inside a pocketed bra, it can provide subtle shaping without the need for another procedure.
If you have had reconstruction and are considering a prosthesis, we recommend a professional fitting. Your fitter can assess your individual shape and help you find a solution that feels comfortable and creates the balance you’re looking for.
What's the difference between a standard silicone prosthesis and a custom prosthesis?
Standard Breast Prostheses
Standard, or ready-to-wear, breast prostheses are pre-shaped and available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, profiles, and skin tones.
They are designed to suit a variety of body types and surgical needs and are an excellent option for many women. Because they are available in standard sizes, you can wear your prosthesis home from your fitting.
Custom Breast Prostheses
A custom silicone prosthesis is individually designed to reflect your unique body shape and chest wall. Scans are taken of your chest wall and are used to create metal moulds of your body to hand-create your personalized form, layer by layer of silicone.
Custom prostheses may be particularly helpful when there are significant differences in chest anatomy, scar patterns, breast shape, or when a very precise match to the natural breast is desired.
Custom options can also allow for additional personalization, including skin tone and areola colour, for an individualized and highly realistic result.
Both standard and custom prostheses are designed with comfort and a natural appearance in mind. The right choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and the level of customization you are looking for.
During a professional fitting, we can help you understand the differences between the options and determine which solution is appropriate for your body and lifestyle.
Finances: Will my insurance cover the costs of my breast prosthesis? What if I don't have insurance or need financial assistance?
Financial Support for Breast Prostheses
We understand that the cost of a breast prosthesis can feel like one more thing to worry about after breast surgery. The good news is that there are several ways to help make your breast prosthesis more affordable.
Private Insurance Coverage
Many private health insurance plans provide coverage for breast prostheses, just as they do for other medical devices such as prescription eyeglasses. Coverage varies between insurance providers and individual plans, so we recommend checking your policy to understand your specific coverage.
If you’re not sure what your plan covers, we’re happy to provide you with a detailed estimate that you can submit to your insurance company before your appointment.
If you need documentation or assistance with the insurance process, our team
is happy to help guide you through it with care and discretion.
Many of our clients find estimate letters ahead of their appointment
helpful because it allows them to compare their spending against their
expected reimbursement. If you do not have private insurance, or wish to
purchase anything beyond your insurance coverage, you can use our receipts as
medical deductions at tax time.
Ontario Assistive Devices Program (ADP)
If you are an Ontario resident with a valid Ontario health card, you will qualify for financial assistance through the Ontario Ministry of Health’s Assistive Devices Program (ADP). The program provides a reimbursement grant toward the cost of eligible breast prostheses.
We make the paperwork easy. We have the ADP forms here at Dianne’s Mastectomy and will help complete the required paperwork and submit your application for you.
The ADP is a reimbursement program for breast prostheses. You pay for your prosthesis at the time of purchase and then the grant is reimbursed directly to you by the Ontario government.
Medical & Tax Benefits
A breast prosthesis is a medical device, not a cosmetic purchase. Breast prostheses required because of a mastectomy are recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency as an eligible medical expense for tax purposes.
If you do not have private insurance, be sure to keep your receipt. You may be able to claim the portion of your breast prosthesis that you paid for as an eligible medical expense on your income tax return. As with other medical expenses, amounts that have been reimbursed generally cannot also be claimed.
Social Assistance & Financial Aid
On Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) or Ontario Works (OW)? Contact us
as we will need to submit an estimate letter to your social worker before
scheduling your appointment to confirm payment approval.
Need financial assistance? Check out our Support Resources page for charities that help women with financial assistance.
We’re Here to Help
Understanding your coverage doesn't have to be complicated. We can provide the receipts, estimates before your appointment, and ADP paperwork you need, and help you understand the options available to you.
If you have questions about coverage, just ask us. We're happy to help.
Can I wear my breast prosthesis swimming?
Yes, but if you swim regularly, we recommend a dedicated swim form.
Swim forms are specifically designed to withstand exposure to chlorine and salt water. Their construction makes them more suitable for regular swimming and helps protect the longevity of the form.
Many swim forms also feature a concave back, allowing water to flow behind the form while you are in the water. This can help create a lighter, more comfortable feel while swimming.
It is also important to wear your swim form in a pocketed swimsuit. Silicone is naturally buoyant, so a pocket provides the security needed to help keep your form comfortably in place while you swim.
With the right swim form and pocketed swimsuit, you can enjoy the water with comfort, security, and confidence.
Can I wear my breast prosthesis through airport security?
You can travel confidently with a breast prosthesis, and it will not prevent you from passing through airport security.
Breast prostheses are recognized medical devices, and you are not required to remove them during screening. If you are asked to step into a scanner or if your prosthesis is detected, you may simply inform the security officer that you have had breast cancer and are wearing a breast prosthesis. As a commonly encountered medical device, security agents are familiar with this and should be able to proceed without further concern.
In the unlikely event that additional questions are asked, you are fully entitled to request a secondary screening in a private room, and to have a female security officer present for your comfort and dignity. Your privacy and peace of mind are always a priority.
Should you feel more comfortable travelling with documentation, our team is happy to provide this for you upon request.
Finding the right prosthesis for you.
There is no single breast prosthesis that is right for every woman.
Your surgery, body shape, lifestyle, activity level, clothing preferences, and personal comfort all play a role in finding the right fit.
That’s why we provide professional fittings. We’ll take the time to understand what you’re looking for, explain your options, and help you find a prosthesis that feels natural, comfortable, and right for you.
You don’t need to know which type you need before your appointment. That’s what we’re here for.
