Compression Bra Versus Sports Bra

The immediate phase after breast surgery is probably a time when those women affected are feeling most vulnerable and exposed. They must first deal with the entire or partial loss of a breast – both mentally and physically. In order to care for these women in the best possible way on the physical level, the Amoena Recovery Care line revolves around the best possible support of the healing process directly after breast surgery. Compression bras are of the highest value here.

Compression textiles provide support – in every respect

Each operation should proceed as optimally as possible in the circumstances. However, the surgical result is not influenced by surgery alone. Perfect post-surgery care also contributes significantly to an optimal healing process. The Amoena compression textiles are designed specifically for women who have undergone breast surgery. They help to minimise the risk of postoperative bleeding and swelling and to alleviate the associated pain. At the same time, compression bras calm the operated breast and keep that area of the body stable. In combination with the pressure coming from compression textiles, they can promote wound healing and stabilise the shape and function of the breast. In this way, compression bras provide excellent support and protect even in the case of sudden, unpleasant movements such as sneezing and coughing. Several styles (Leyla, Sina,Pamela) are even suitable for direct clinical use immediately after the operation, since they are pre-washed and delivered in a sealed package. 

In addition to the physical benefit with regard to the healing process, compression bras also provide an emotional feeling of stability and safety, the value of which cannot be estimated highly enough in the phase after surgery. Compression bras can support the self-confidence of women from the start and help them to come to terms with their new life situation, especially in combination with the extra-soft Priform, a postoperative breast form made of lightweight fibrefill.

Although the medical benefit of compression bras is based on the latest scientific knowledge, women who have undergone surgery are still often recommended sports bras for the first phase after breast surgery. Sports bras have a number of disadvantages compared to medical compression bras. As sports bras are generally not designed without seams, there is a risk of friction and irritation at the site of the operation. Compression bras by Amoena, on the other hand, are manufactured using seamless circular knitting technology to prevent such complications.
 

Special features for a special time

Another aspect not to be underestimated is the requirement for good postoperative care in order not to impede lymphatic flow in the surgical area – especially bearing in mind that some women develop lymphoedema after breast surgery. Sports bras have thin, low-stretch inner bands that can easily impair lymphatic flow. Amoena compression bras have a particularly soft and wide underbust band precisely for this reason. In addition, sports bras do not cover the entire surgical area in which the patient can develop postoperative oedema.

Furthermore, a sports bra is not able to exert the right amount of pressure at exactly the correct position due to its cut. In contrast, this is exactly what Amoena compression bras have been designed to do. They have been developed specifically for the needs of women who have undergone breast surgery and are equipped with light, medium or high pressure levels depending on the style. Special knitting technology also allows for different knitting zones within the material. For example, the firmness of the back and sides differ, although the entire compression bra is seamless and consists of a single part. This is particularly beneficial for lymphatic drainage. The wide straps, the high back and the wide underbust band contribute to the stabilisation of the surgical area without impairing the surgical result. 

Another significant aspect is the presence of a front fastening. Amoena compression and postoperative bras are equipped with front fastenings to make dressing and undressing as comfortable and pain-free as possible. Especially in the first phase after breast surgery, movements of the torso are often associated with pain. This pain can be easily avoided or reduced by the Amoena front fastening. 

The seamless LEYLA compression bra with front closure, here in combination with the Amoena Anchor and Mammilla Circle silicone patches. Silicones keep the scar soft and supple (can only be used after wound closure). LEYLA is suitable for direct clinical use immediately after breast surgery due to the pre-washing procedure.

The SINA postoperative compression bra with seamless circular knitting technology. Special knitted zones and targeted medium pressure levels support lymphatic drainage and the healing process. Adjustable straps with Velcro fasteners, front fastening and pre-formed, flexible cups are designed to fit.

Post Surgical Compression Bras  - see the full Amoena's range here

From expertise to medical compression bra

The pivotal difference between a sports bra and a medical compression bra is that the latter is a “true” medical device. Nothing is left to chance during the product development. Since all Amoena compression textiles are medical products, a clinical evaluation is mandatory. The clinical benefit, safety and performance of each product must be demonstrated beyond doubt. Thus, the development of Amoena compression bras is based on the latest scientific knowledge. In cooperation with healthcare professionals, several weeks of product tests are carried out with a final assessment by the healthcare professionals providing treatment. You can access expert advice in a well-stocked specialist retailer. You can find an Amoena stockist near you.