Best Products for Recovery After a Double Mastectomy: From Scar Cream to Post-Mastectomy Bathing Suits and Bikinis

Recovering from a double mastectomy is a physical, emotional, and practical journey. The right products can ease pain, support healing, and restore confidence. This guide highlights recovery essentials—from scar creams to post-mastectomy bathing suits—to help you feel more comfortable and in control.

👉 Related reading: The 101 Guide to a Double Mastectomy


Why Products Matter in Recovery

After a double mastectomy, your body has gone through major surgery. Simple comforts can make a huge difference in how you feel day to day.

These products aren’t about vanity—they’re about dignity, mobility, and healing. From clothing to skincare, each tool helps you live with more ease while your body recovers.


Clothing for Comfort and Healing

Double Mastectomy Clothing

For women who have had a double mastectomy surgery, sports bras, soft tanks, and button-up tops with built-in support or, if you choose to “foob” pockets for prosthetics will be your go-to for daily wear during recovery.

👉 Related reading: The Ultimate Guide to Fashion for Women with a Single Mastectomy

Post Mastectomy Casual Wear

After a double mastectomy, comfort is everything. Look for:

  • Soft, breathable fabrics, like bamboo tanks
  • Front closure tops to avoid lifting your arms.
  • Loose fits to reduce skin irritation.
  • Post surgery pajamas or hoodies with drain pockets, front closure and soft materials

👉 Related reading: Kickit Pajamas: Comfort After Breast Surgery


Swimwear That Restores Confidence

Many women worry about getting back into swimwear after a double mastectomy. The right suit can bring joy and confidence again.

  • Post mastectomy bathing suits: One-piece designs with higher necklines or hidden pockets for foobs or prosthetics.
  • Post-mastectomy bikini: Two-piece suits with adjustable straps and soft linings. Great for comfort and style.
  • Flat swimwear: Minimalist designs without darts that celebrate a flat chest without padding.

👉 Related reading: Why I Founded a Swimsuit for Post-Mastectomy Brand 

Ellyn Bonus: Get 25% off your purchase of POST SWIM by using the Promo Code ELLYN25


Scar Care and Skin Healing

Your chest will likely feel tight, numb, or sensitive for months after surgery. Scar care products can help improve healing.

Always check with your doctor before starting new skin treatments, especially if you’ve had or are about to have radiation.


Drain and Post-Surgery Helpers

Recovery often includes surgical drains. Keeping them secure and discreet is important.

  • Drain holders and shower lanyards: Keep your drain bulbs in place and tubes from pulling.
  • Pillows and seatbelt protectors: For protection in bed and to ease chest pressure when travelling.
  • Compression wraps or bras: Often recommended by surgeons to reduce swelling. Hint, for the sportsbra make sure to look for a zipper front closure! 

These simple products provide comfort during an otherwise difficult stage.


Everyday Comfort Essentials

  • Cooling packs: Help with swelling or tenderness.
  • Soft front-closing bras and tanks: Provide gentle support, with or without prosthetic pockets.
  • Sleep aids: Body pillows or wedge pillows support comfortable rest.

👉 Related reading: The Ultimate Guide to Chemo Curls


Emotional Comfort Matters Too

Products ease physical pain, but emotional healing is just as important. Many women find confidence through clothing, swimwear, and even sharing mastectomy pictures no reconstruction as part of survivorship.

Community support, therapy, and resources like AskEllyn can also provide comfort beyond what’s physical.

👉 Related reading: The 101 Guide on a Double Mastectomy


Final Thoughts

Recovery after a double mastectomy isn’t just about time—it’s about having the right support. From scar creams to post-mastectomy bikinis, the right products make healing easier and restore confidence.

Every woman’s journey is different. Choose what feels right for you, and know that comfort and joy are still possible.

Ellyn Winters Robinson

Ellyn Winters-Robinson is a breast cancer survivor, entrepreneur, author, in-demand speaker, women’s health advocate, professional communicator and a globally recognized health rebel. Ellyn's best-selling book "Flat Please Hold the Shame," is a girlfriend’s companion guide for those on the breast cancer journey. She is also the co-creator of AskEllyn.ai, the world’s first conversational AI companion for those on the breast cancer journey. With Dense Breasts Canada and award-winning photographer Hilary Gauld, Ellyn also co-produced I WANT YOU TO KNOW, a celebrated photo essay showing the diverse faces and stories of 31 individuals on the breast cancer journey. Ellyn’s story and AskEllyn.ai have been featured in People Magazine, Chatelaine Magazine, the Globe and Mail, CTV National News and Your Morning, and Fast Company.

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