Understanding Breast Reconstruction Recovery: Why the Right Support Matters

For many women facing breast cancer, breast reconstruction is an important part of the healing journey. Whether chosen immediately after mastectomy or at a later stage, reconstruction helps restore shape and confidence.

But surgery is only the beginning. Recovery is a crucial phase, and the right care, including what you wear during healing, can make a real difference.

Types of Breast Reconstruction

Implant-Based Reconstruction

This is one of the most common reconstruction procedures, sometimes using expanders before placing implants. After surgery, the chest needs stability to help implants settle properly. Surgeons often recommend compression bras to reduce swelling, prevent fluid build-up, and keep implants in place during the first weeks.

Flap Reconstruction (Using Your Own Tissue)

This approach uses tissue from another part of the body, such as the abdomen or back. Recovery involves both the chest and the donor site. Gentle, medical-grade compression garments support healing at both areas, while soft fabrics and front-fastening designs improve comfort.

Symmetry Procedures

To achieve a balanced look, many women also undergo breast reduction or uplift. These procedures typically require compression bras as standard, to support healing, minimise swelling, and shape the breast.

Why Compression Bras Matter in Recovery

During recovery, your body works hard to heal. Medical-grade compression bras are designed to:

• Reduce swelling through gentle, controlled pressure
• Support scars and minimise irritation
• Stabilise results by keeping implants or flaps secure
• Improve comfort with front closures and soft, skin-friendly fabrics
• Offer reassurance during the healing process

Sports bras or everyday lingerie are not made for post-surgery recovery and may even cause discomfort. That’s why surgeons recommend garments created specifically for recovery.

How LIPOELASTIC Can Support You

Every woman’s recovery is unique. At LIPOELASTIC UK, we’re here to support you:

• Personalised guidance on sizing, tailoring, and measuring
• A wide range of medical-grade compression bras designed for breast surgery recovery
• A caring team ready to answer questions and provide reassurance

Get in touch with our Customer Services team to arrange a one-to-one consultation and find the support you need.

Resources

For more information on breast reconstruction and recovery, visit:

• NHS – Breast reconstruction
• Breast Cancer Now – Breast reconstruction
• Macmillan Cancer Support – Breast reconstruction
• Cancer Research UK – Breast reconstruction
• NHS – Mastectomy recovery

References

NHS. (2022). Breast reconstruction. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-reconstruction/ (Accessed 23 September 2025).

Breast Cancer Now. (2023). Breast reconstruction. Available at: https://breastcancernow.org/information-support/facing-breast-cancer/going-through-treatment/breast-reconstruction (Accessed 23 September 2025).

Macmillan Cancer Support. (2023). Breast reconstruction. Available at: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/breast-reconstruction (Accessed 23 September 2025).

Cancer Research UK. (2023). Breast reconstruction. Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/breast-reconstruction (Accessed 23 September 2025).

NHS. (2021). Mastectomy: recovery. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mastectomy/recovery/ (Accessed 23 September 2025).