How to Make a Mastectomy Bra from a Regular Bra

How to Make a Mastectomy Bra from a Regular Bra

Losing one or both breasts to surgery is a difficult experience. Helping to make the transition easier, you can make a mastectomy bra at home from an existing regular bra.

Instructions

1. Get measurements for the mastectomy bra by measuring the widest part of your chest below the breast area. Write this measurement down.
2. Select a regular bra that fits best based on your chest size. Look for a bra with no padding and no underwire.
3. Purchase foam cups that fit your chest measurement. Foam cups are designed to fit into a regular bra to help form a breast-like shape.
4. Slip the foam cups into the bra cup where they fit snugly but not tight.
5. Attach the adjustable straps to the back of the bra on either side and adjust the length of the straps. Comfortably fit the bra on your torso and adjust the shoulder straps for the desired fit.
6. Introduce closures if you desire. Closures can be sewn around the middle of the bra so it can be put on and taken off quickly.

Tips

• Don't sew over the straps; instead, use extra fabric along the sides of the bra.
• Use a fabric that will not stretch easily while sewing and that matches the fabric of the bra.
• You can skip the closure and opt for an adjustable bra.

Making a Mastectomy Bra Out of a Regular Bra

Getting the right fit and comfort for a mastectomy bra can be tricky. Fortunately, it’s possible to give an ordinary bra an upgrade to be suitable for wearing post-mastectomy. Follow this guide to make a mastectomy bra from an existing item in your wardrobe.

Step One: Gather Your Materials

• A regular bra
• Fabric shears
• Needle and thread
• Hook and eyes
• Velcro
• Fabric

Step Two: Prepare the Fabric

• Cut the fabric in a diamond shape, with two short sides and two long sides. Aim for a size of 4”x6”.
• Fold the corners of the long sides in by 1”.
• Fold the fabric in half along the longest length, resulting in an oval shape.

Step Three: Add Closure

• Secure the edges of the fabric together with needle and thread.
• When the edge is secure, attach a hook and eye to the back of the fabric.
• Add a small piece of Velcro to help the fabric to grip the breast.

Step Four: Cut the Bra

• Carefully cut the fabric of the regular bra in a straight line, leaving roughly a 1” seam allowance.
• Discard the remaining piece of the bra, as it’s no longer needed.

Step Five: Sew Together

• Lay the fabric piece from Step 3 along the flat cut edge of the bra cup.
• Sew the fabric onto the bra cup with needle and thread.
• Pull the hook and eye of the fabric around the outside of the bra cup and attach the other side.

Step Six: Complete

Your mastectomy bra is complete! Try it on and adjust as needed for a perfect fit.