The Struggles and Tips for Finding Your New Bra Size After Breast Reduction Surgery

The Struggles of Finding Your Perfect Bra Size

As a woman with a breast reduction, I know firsthand how difficult and frustrating bra shopping can be. When your body goes through such a dramatic change, like I did after my reduction surgery, you're faced with relearning your shape and finding new bras that actually fit properly. It's overwhelming to say the least!

I remember before my breast reduction, I was wearing a 36DDD and could never find cute, supportive bras that fit me right. The bands were always too loose but going down a band size made the cups overflow. So I'd end up with bras that rode up my back or spilled over with quad boob at the top. Not cute!

After my reduction, I was hopeful that bra shopping would be easier. But I found out that wasn't the case at all! My new 34C bras gaped at the top or squeezed me too tight. The shape was all wrong. I spent hours trying on different styles and sizes, getting frustrated when nothing worked. Bras shouldn't be this hard!

Learning Your New Bra Size and Shape

If you've had a breast reduction, the first step is getting properly sized. Many women think they are now a C or D cup just because the surgeon made their breasts smaller. But it's about more than just the volume - you need to consider the base width, projection, and overall shape too.

Make an appointment to get professionally fitted at a lingerie store or specialty bra shop. Even if you were sized before surgery, you'll likely need a whole new bra wardrobe that fits your post-op chest. Be open minded and willing to try on many different sizes. Don't get discouraged if the first few don't work. Finding ABTF (a bra that fits) is a process.

Pay attention to how the band feels on the loosest hooks and how the cups fit your breasts. Trying on many different bra styles like balconette, demi, full coverage, and push up will help you identify both your new size and shape. This knowledge will make future bra purchases much easier.

Bras to Try After a Reduction

Once you know your new size, it's time to find some bras! Here are some of my favorites as a breast reduction patient:

• Natori Feathers - So lightweight and comfortable, it feels like you're not wearing a bra at all.
• Wacoal Embrace Lace - Gorgeous lace bra with foam lined cups for shape and support.
• ThirdLove 24/7 T-shirt Bra - Soft memory foam cups and half cups suit many breast shapes.
• Lively Mesh Bralette - Cute bralette style with removable pads for light support.

Look for bras with padded straps that won't dig in, full adjustment hooks, and bands that don't ride up. Underwire or wireless is personal preference. Focus on how the bra fits - not just how it looks. The most important thing is finding bras in your new size that make you feel comfortable, confident, and supported.

Being Kind to Yourself

It's so easy to get down on ourselves when bras don't fit right. But remember - it's not you, it's the bra! Your body is beautiful and went through a major change. Give yourself grace as you navigate these new curves.

Don't hesitate to enlist help from the lingerie store sales associates to bring you different sizes and styles. Make adjustments to the straps, bands, and cups as needed. Try bras on upside down and backwards to isolate fit issues.

Most of all, be patient and kind to yourself. With some effort you will find bras in your new size that make you feel just as comfortable, confident and sexy as you did before your breast reduction. Don't get discouraged - your perfect bra match is out there waiting for you!

Tips for Finding Your New Bra Size After Breast Reduction Surgery

Having a breast reduction is liberating but finding bras afterward can present some new challenges. Here are my top tips for breast reduction patients on how to find your new bra size and discover styles that fit and support your new shape:

Get Professionally Fitted

Make an appointment at a specialty bra boutique or lingerie store. Even if you were sized before surgery, you'll likely need a whole new bra wardrobe for your new chest. Let the experts help assess your size and shape.

Try Many Different Sizes

Be open to different band and cup combinations. Try sizes above, below and to the side of your previous size. Pay attention to band tightness and cup gaps or overflow. Finding the right fit may require trying on quite a few sizes.

Don't Judge a Bra by its Looks

Trying on many styles is key to identifying shape and fit issues. Focus on how the bra fits and supports you rather than just aesthetics. The most important thing is finding sizes and styles that are comfortable.

Make Adjustments

Make use of bra straps, bands, and hooks to get a proper fit. Adjust straps for lift, loosen bands for comfort, and use inner hooks for a tighter band. Tailor each bra's fit to your body.

Be Patient

Finding your new size and style matches takes time, especially after a major change like breast reduction surgery. Try not to get discouraged if some bras don't work right away. With patience and persistence, you'll find ABTF!

Re-learning your shape and finding properly fitting bras can feel overwhelming after breast reduction surgery. Arm yourself with education, advice and an open mindset. With some effort you'll soon be wearing cute, supportive bras perfectly suited to your new chest. You've got this!

FAQs

How long does it take to find your new bra size after a breast reduction?

It typically takes several weeks or even months after surgery before your breasts settle into their final shape and you know your true bra size. Be patient with yourself and willing to try on many different sizes during the initial healing period.

What's the best way to determine your new bra size after a reduction?

Getting professionally fitted by an expert bra fitter is highly recommended. Even if you were sized before surgery, your shape and measurements will likely change. Let the fitters bring you various sizes and assess your new shape hands-on.

What bra styles work best after a breast reduction?

Look for bras with padded straps, full adjustment hooks, supportive bands, and cups that conform to your shape without gapping or overflow. Underwire or wireless, demi, balconette and contour cups usually work well for a reduced bust.

Will I need new bras after each stage of healing?

It's very likely you'll go through multiple bra size and style changes from the initial post-op period through full healing. Your breasts will fluctuate in size and shape for several months. Expect to shop for 1-2 transitional bras sizes before your size stabilizes.

How can I make bra shopping easier after my reduction?

Shop at specialty lingerie stores where fit experts can assist you. Bring a friend for a second opinion on fit. Stay open minded and don't get discouraged trying new sizes. Focus on fit and support over just looks. Be patient with yourself!