CommunitiesSurgery and RecoveryWhat to Expect After Lumpectomy Surgery?

What to Expect After Lumpectomy Surgery?

RA

Community Member

5 months ago

Lumpectomy is scheduled for Monday the 21st. The surgeon expects it to be at least a golf ball size removal from breast for DCIS. Should I expect to have a drain? Should I look for a particular type of bra for afterwards? I e seen where some hospitals provide them. It’s too late to order anything & have it shipped, so I need to look in person. Amazon might make it in time. Thanks in advance!

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Post-lumpectomy care varies by individual case, but many patients find that front-opening or zip-front bras without underwire provide the most comfort during recovery. Consider checking local pharmacies, medical supply stores, or larger retailers as they often carry post-surgical bras, and fellow community members here may have great recommendations from their own experiences to share with you.

3+ patients found this helpful

JS

Community Member

5 months ago

The hospital will have the proper bra for you. I’m not sure about the drain since I had a double mastectomy. I have had drains twice though and after getting used to them they weren’t really bad at all. Best of luck to you!

2
TC

Community Member

5 months ago

I was diagnosed 5.19.2025. DCIS. My surgery was 6.9.25. No drain, wore the binding and my spots bra for the whole week. I had no fluid developed in the surgery site. My doctor said it was probably because I wore it the week. I didn't wear it at nite. I needed the break.

TW

Community Member

4 months ago

Usually they put you in a sort of tube top or surgical bra. I had the expand-a-band https://eabmedical.com/product/breast-binder/ then transitioned to a masthead Judy bra which was the only one that felt comfortable to me. Each surgeon has a different preference and every body is different. Go with what your doctor/hospital gives you and then find what works for your body. My local non-chain pharmacy had things so I could try something on without spending tons.

CH

Community Member

3 months ago

I was given no advice on what to wear after my lumpectomy in 2018.

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Post-lumpectomy care varies by individual case, but many patients find that front-opening or zip-front bras without underwire provide the most comfort during recovery. Consider checking local pharmacies, medical supply stores, or larger retailers as they often carry post-surgical bras, and fellow community members here may have great recommendations from their own experiences to share with you.

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