• About
  • Advertise
  • FAQs
  • Contact
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Subscribe
The Curvy Fashionista
  • Style
  • Wellness
  • Lifestyle
  • Entertainment
  • Curvy CEO
  • Shop TCF
  • Events Calendar
  • The Plus Directory
No Result
View All Result
  • Style
  • Wellness
  • Lifestyle
  • Entertainment
  • Curvy CEO
  • Shop TCF
  • Events Calendar
  • The Plus Directory
No Result
View All Result
The Curvy Fashionista
No Result
View All Result

How Inclusive Are Mastectomy Bras and Prostheses for Plus Size Women?

Elaine Birks-Mitchell by Elaine Birks-Mitchell
8 months ago
- Last edited by: Marie Denee -
Reading Time: 6 mins read
A A
1
333
SHARES
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

With Breast Cancer Awareness Month here, I wanted to chat about something super important that doesn’t get nearly enough attention—the process of finding inclusive mastectomy bras and prostheses.

Years ago, I had my first bra fitting at Nordstrom in Minneapolis, and I remember they couldn’t find a bra that fit me. 

The fitter then asked, “Have you ever tried Anita or Amoena?” I hadn’t even heard of those brands—well, they are mastectomy bras.

RelatedPosts

You Oughta Know: Curvy Couture Is Here to Lift You Up

TCF’s Weekend with LiviRae Lingerie: A Bra-Fitting Bonanza!

THE Plus Size Lingerie Label Heating up the Internet- Curves by Oh La La Cheri

mastectomy Bras for plus size
© Rawpixel.com / Adobe Stock

But these bras weren’t even displayed; they were hidden in the back room. She said they didn’t want to offend anyone or make them uncomfortable. They weren’t discussed, and I remember thinking, “Why are we worried about offending people? We need to make this a positive experience and not intimidating for these women.”

So, for years, the search for comfortable and supportive post-mastectomy wear has felt like a treasure hunt. 

Fortunately, times have changed over the last twenty years, and we now have sizes for all body types. It’s been great to see the inclusivity of prosthesis colors; they come in all shades and sizes.

Supporting breast cancer survivors has always been close to my heart, and I’ve seen firsthand just how much difference the right bra can make after watching close friends and my sister on their journey to healing after breast cancer.

With that said, let’s talk about how we can make sure every woman has access to what she needs to feel good in her own skin after surgery.

mastectomy bras for plus size people
© Elaine Birks-Mitchell / The Bra Recyclers

The Evolution  of  Mastectomy Bras 

Brands like Anita, Amoena, and Royce, just to name a few, offer extended sizes, making it much easier for plus size women to find bras that fit, feel comfortable, and look good. 

Elizabeth Cluff from Impact One Breast Cancer Foundation was telling me about this shift. She’s worked closely with breast cancer survivors, including many plus-size women, and she’s seen firsthand how much better things have gotten. 

AD 4nXfVi6XiogxLu1EsPwGqyClwJNClUK75zbZugrjFqa7e6aX8yCpw7DWFLC
© Royce Zahra Soft Cup with Pocket / Belle Lacet

She said, “We’ve seen women trying to make do with ill-fitting bras that don’t offer the comfort or security they need.” Of course, there are still some challenges, especially when it comes to accessibility.

As Elizabeth pointed out, “Brands like Anita and Amoena are great, and newer companies focus on comfort, especially with how sensitive skin is post-surgery. But access is still a challenge. In metro areas, you might find more suitable places and  wider options, but in rural areas, women might only have a dollar store nearby and no idea where to find these products.”

Overall, it’s great to see how far things have come, even if there’s still some work to be done.

Why Inclusivity in Post-Mastectomy Wear Matters

AD 4nXeVH8avCDbtFTlo8tNyWH2Qfn8zjylqAsr6 5GJuGNTdrS2uhG9fN APoR8O4WYOhS8mSw7C3m76A Vp quX5oigTTAiDNKa ww9ryKHtlAKSarNDl dtTdjNr7k5TzEJMMzMhdigvkS2daB8e0TApFpA?key=LWmLOK3I2jcWsAi93pC3fw
© Rawpixel.com / Adobe Stock

Inclusivity is about so much more than just offering bigger sizes. It’s about truly understanding and addressing the unique needs of women during their recovery.

Elizabeth highlights another common issue: “For instance, I spoke with a woman preparing for reconstruction who realized she had nothing to come home to. So we focused on packing her recovery items, ensuring we have her size, like a 2X tank top.” 

These real-life stories emphasize the importance of ensuring women have the right products waiting for them as they begin their recovery journey.

Mastectomy Bra Tips and Resources for Plus Size Women

AD 4nXfgYiklenrlEa7rPVXs2ei5ODcWUi5h3HfVF 2xMWVdoFoH18 Tm8ujLvlPfrSTHoo 0WeBI1wIlj01aTJVKh1feiusgcSsM729TX5hJsbrOH XYfZnTikexRW
© Mary Pain / Adobe Stock

If you’re a plus size woman on the hunt for the perfect mastectomy bras, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Adjustable Straps: These are a total game-changer! They help you get the perfect fit, especially as your body changes post-surgery.
  • Wider Bands: A wider band offers extra support and spreads the weight, making you more comfortable throughout the day.
  • Soft Materials: Look for bras made from soft, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate your skin—because comfort is key!
  • Wireless Bras: Underwires in bras can dig into the skin, causing discomfort post-surgery. Ensure bras are wire-free to support your healing body.

Need Support with Breast Cancer Resources or Want to Get Involved?

If you’re struggling to find the right fit, reach out to organizations like Impact One Breast Cancer Foundation. Elizabeth mentioned, “We’ve made strides in educating women about recovery wear, but it’s still tough outside major cities. That’s where Impact One comes in, offering immediate support and resources.” 

For nationwide support, I recommend services like the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Here, you can discover numerous breast cancer support groups.

They can guide you to the products that will help you feel more comfortable and confident.

You can get involved this October by recycling gently used bras or new and unused mastectomy bras/post-surgical bras and prostheses. It’s a small act that can make a huge difference, giving women the resources they need to feel comfortable and confident.

Making Healing and Recovery Inclusive for Everyone

Inclusivity in mastectomy bras and prostheses isn’t just about having more sizes; it’s really about making sure every woman has what she needs to feel supported during her recovery.

As we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to think about how we can make this journey more inclusive. Every woman, no matter her size, or background, deserves to feel comfortable and confident in her own skin.

So, if you’re able to recycle a bra and essential resources for survivors or just help spread the word, it can truly make a difference for plus size breast cancer survivors. 

Every woman deserves to feel whole again.

Continue Reading
Tags: breast cancer awarenessplus size bras
Share132Tweet83
Elaine Birks-Mitchell

Elaine Birks-Mitchell

Elaine Birks Mitchell is the founder of The Bra Recyclers, an organization dedicated to recycling bras for over 15 years. With her understanding of the struggles women face when trying to find the right bra, she has fitted women of all ages who face adversity, ensuring their comfort, confidence, and safety. Elaine's passion for sustainability has led to innovative collaborations with lingerie brands, making well-fitting bras more accessible globally.

Related Posts

Jewelry Box Subscription
Style News

Your Mailbox Just Got a Whole Lot Shinier: 5 Jewelry Subscriptions Worth the Hype

by Marie Denee
May 27, 2025
Proof That Good Taste Doesn’t Require a Trust Fund: 7 Drugstore Makeup Brands to Know
Style News

Proof That Good Taste Doesn’t Require a Trust Fund: 7 Drugstore Makeup Brands to Know

by Marie Denee
May 27, 2025
AAPI Powerhouses: The Plus Size Influencers & Activists You Need to Be Following
Culture

AAPI Powerhouses: The Plus Size Influencers & Activists You Need to Be Following

by Editorial Staff
May 26, 2025
Data to Design: Rethinking Fashion’s Approach to Plus Size Shoppers
Business of Plus

Data to Design: Rethinking Fashion’s Approach to Plus Size Shoppers

by Katie Bradshaw
May 23, 2025
Naked Wardrobe: Why Luxe Basics for Every Curve Are Your New Recession-Proof Obsession
Plus Size Designers

Naked Wardrobe: Why Luxe Basics for Every Curve Are Your New Recession-Proof Obsession

by Editorial Staff
May 22, 2025
Bubbles, Bliss & Bodaciousness: Your Plus Size Guide to Owning the Spa Scene
Beauty

Bubbles, Bliss & Bodaciousness: Your Plus Size Guide to Owning the Spa Scene

by Melanie Yvette
May 22, 2025
Next Post
a-spot lelo enigma sonic

Unlocking the A-Spot: Your New Pleasure Zone's Best-Kept Secret (And How to Find It!)

Comments 1

  1. Kate Taylor says:
    8 months ago

    Here here! At Evenly (getevenly.com) our breast forms are clear to suit ALL skin tones and we aim to be as size inclusive as possible. We also talk about and support breast asymmetry of ALL origins and not just post-cancer. It is great to see the industry taking steps in the right direction in this area. Thank you for your great write up.

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

I agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

What are you looking for?

No Result
View All Result

What's Popular Now

  • Curlycurvydiva on IG - B Bellies

    The Dividing Truth Behind B Bellies

    2888 shares
    Share 1134 Tweet 709
  • What Plus Size People Actually Wore To New York Fashion Week

    1556 shares
    Share 618 Tweet 387
  • Who Is Sara Milliken? Learn All About the 2024 National American Miss Alabama!

    460 shares
    Share 180 Tweet 113
  • On Styling a Stomach: To Tuck Or Not To Tuck

    2616 shares
    Share 363 Tweet 227
  • Calling All Big Chest Girlies! 5 Tips On How To Wear A Strapless Dress With Big Bust

    513 shares
    Share 202 Tweet 127

The Curvy Fashionista is THE plus size fashion media platform dedicated to celebrating plus size folks with curves, confidence, style, and smarts; covering the latest in plus size fashion news.

Company

  • About
  • Team TCF
  • Advertise
  • Contribute
  • Contact

Info

  • Plus Size FAQs
  • Plus Size Resources
  • Privacy 
  • Sitemap
No Result
View All Result
  • Style
  • Beauty
  • Wellness
  • Lifestyle
  • Curvy CEO
  • Editor’s Desk
  • Lifestyle
  • Shop TCF
  • Contact
  • About The Curvy Fashionista

© 2008- 2025 · by TCFStyle Media · All Rights Reserved ·

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this website you are giving consent to cookies being used. Visit our Privacy and Cookie Policy.