Swimming After a Mastectomy: Swim Bras, Breast Forms and What to Wear

The short answer: after a mastectomy, you can return to swimming once your care team says your incisions have healed. Look for a swim bra with pockets that hold a breast form securely, pair it with a swim top that gives you the coverage you want, and rinse everything in fresh water after each swim.

When can I swim after a mastectomy?

There's no single date that fits everyone. It depends on your surgery, how your scars are healing and whether you're having other treatment such as radiotherapy. Ask your breast care team or surgeon when it's safe for you to swim. Cancer Research UK notes that a permanent breast form is usually fitted about six weeks after surgery, once the scar has healed and any radiotherapy is finished.

What to look for in a mastectomy swim bra

• Pockets for a breast form, so it stays in place when you swim, stretch and climb out of the pool.
• Removable cups, so you can choose whether to wear a form or not.
• Easy to put on: a bra that slips on over the head, with no hooks to fasten behind your back.
• Coverage at the sides and neckline, so you feel secure moving your arms.

Our Mastectomy Supreme Swim and Sports Bra is made of two layers of fabric, with removable cups and inner side pockets for easy placement of your breast form. It slips on over the head and sits comfortably under a swim shirt. For A, B and C cups, the Mastectomy Racer Back Swim & Sports Bra offers the same removable cups and inner openings for your form, in a classic racer back.

"Finally a company that gets it. Styles of mastectomy swimsuits are limited in general. This bra opens up a lot more options. I can wear this bra under a regular swimsuit, or even under a t-shirt if I choose."

— PJ

"This bra is great. In the water I don't even know I'm wearing it. Very very comfortable."

— Donna H.

Choosing a swim top

A separate swim top over your mastectomy bra gives you a second layer of coverage, so nothing shows when the fabric is wet. Many women prefer a top with sleeves and a higher neckline, like the Coral Bay Ruched Swim Shirt or the Easy On and Off Full Zippered Athletic Swim Top, which zips open all the way if lifting your arms is uncomfortable.

Both are chlorine proof and UPF 50+, which also protects skin that may be more sensitive after treatment.

Caring for your breast form in the pool

• Cancer Research UK says a regular breast form can be worn for an occasional swim, but rinse it in clean water afterward to remove chlorine or salt.
• If you swim often, ask about a swim form, made to withstand chlorine and salt water.
• Rinse your swim bra in fresh water after every swim and let it air dry.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear a mastectomy swim bra without a breast form?

Yes. The cups are removable, so you can wear the bra with a form, with its own cups or with neither.

Is the mastectomy swim bra chlorine proof?

Our mastectomy bras are made with XTRA LIFE LYCRA® and nylon, a chlorine resistant fabric. Rinse after each swim to help it last.

Can I do water aerobics after a mastectomy?

Many women find water exercise a gentle way to rebuild strength and movement. Check with your care team first, then see What to Wear to Water Aerobics.

This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Always follow your care team's guidance.
Source: Cancer Research UK, False breast shape (prosthesis).