Why Post-Surgical Garments Matter: Supporting Your Customers Through Recovery

By Dana Donofree, Founder of AnaOno

At AnaOno, we believe that when you feel good, you heal better. For customers preparing for breast or chest surgery—whether cancer-related, cosmetic, or gender-affirming—selecting the right post-surgical garment can make a tremendous difference in both comfort and recovery. As specialty retailers, you are often the ones guiding these conversations and helping your customers prepare for one of the most important times in their lives.

Why Post-Surgical Bras Are Recommended
Post-surgical garments are designed with specific medical needs in mind. They allow for ease of dressing when mobility is limited, help manage swelling, accommodate surgical drains, and provide comfort where sensitive incisions need protection. Choosing the correct garment depends on the type of surgery and the recommendations from their doctor, which is why your expertise as a trusted resource is so valuable.

The AnaOno Post-Surgical Collection

Post-Surgical Bra

Front Closure Post Surgical Bra is designed with patient recovery at the forefront, this bra features:

• Front hook closure for easy on and off.
• Adjustable straps to accommodate swelling and healing.
• Cooling mesh back for breathability.
• Removable drain management pockets, supporting patients with JP drains. Surgeries that may require drains include mastectomies (unilateral or bilateral), explant surgeries, reconstructive procedures, and some breast reductions.

Post-Surgical Vest

The Post-Surgical Vest – A unisex option ideal for a wider range of surgeries, including:

• Mastectomies and reconstruction with flap procedures (which often do not require compression).
• Top surgery and gynecomastia procedures.
  Available in both female and unisex/male sizing, the vest is adaptable for many recovery needs.

Post Surgical Vest for Men

The Rora Bra

The Rora Bra
Our best-selling modal bra, designed for comfort after the initial 4–6 week recovery period. With its ultra-soft fabric and light compression, the Rora provides gentle support when patients are ready to transition from their initial recovery garment to an everyday comfort bra.

Bianca Front Closure Sports Bra

The Bianca Front Closure Sports Bra is a popular choice for augmentations and reductions, this bra offers:

• 360° compression to support swelling reduction.
• Mesh back for breathability.
• Lower plunging neckline, perfect for continued healing with added style.

Tips for Helping Customers Prepare
Doctors often recommend specific features depending on the surgery—compression vs. no compression, underwire vs. no underwire, and drain management. Encourage customers to ask their physician:

• Will I need compression?
• Will I have drains?
• Should I avoid underwire?
• How long should I wear my recovery bra?

The more informed your customers are, the better you can support them with the right garment.

Common Surgeries That May Require Recovery Garments

• Mastectomy (single or double)
• Lumpectomy
• Reconstruction (implant or flap)
• Explant surgery
• Breast augmentation
• Breast reduction
• Top surgery (FTM or nonbinary)
• Gynecomastia surgery

As specialty retailers, your ability to guide patients toward garments that truly meet their needs builds both trust and loyalty. By carrying post-surgical solutions, you’re not only providing comfort—you’re becoming part of their healing journey.

At AnaOno, we’re here to support you, so you can support them. Because when your customers feel good, they heal better.

See more AnaOno collections on their Spotlight on Lingerie Briefs
Also see Dana Donofree’s column on Breast Health