Bra preferences of breast cancer survivors treated with mastectomy and prosthetic reconstruction

ABSTRACT

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime and the number choosing mastectomy in response to invasive breast cancer is rising. A survey of 62 survivors who have undergone double mastectomy with prosthetic reconstruction demonstrated that they have surgical and healing related side effects which create unique undergarment needs. Survey results were used to discern the needs and preferences of this group of survivors and provide functional design guidelines for future bra designers. Bra wing and underband comfort were found to be of critical importance. Adjustable straps and well-fitting cups that hide imperfections while providing insulation and moisture management were additional needs identified by these survivors.

KEYWORDS:

• Breast
• mastectomy
• reconstruction
• thermal
• bra

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

ORCID

Susanne M. Wroblewski http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9576-7199

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Spectrum Health Innovations.