What should you know about jobst compression bra?

Your breast or lymphoedema team may suggest a compression bra after surgery, reconstruction, radiotherapy, or when swelling needs support. Its fabric should feel supportive without causing sharp pain, numbness, skin colour change, or restricted breathing. A bra is not a substitute for checking a new lump, wound problem, infection, or rapidly increasing swelling. The correct style, pressure, band position, and wearing schedule depend on your body, healing stage, and treatment plan.

Ask for fitting guidance rather than choosing a size from an old bra. Put it on over clean, dry skin and check that seams do not rub the wound or drain site. Inspect your skin after wearing it, wash the garment as instructed, and allow it to dry fully. Do not alter the garment or add extra layers to increase pressure unless your clinician advises this. Lymphoedema therapy can help place garment use within a wider swelling-management plan.

Remove the bra and contact your care team if it causes persistent pain, tingling, numbness, marked pressure, skin damage, or a change in colour. Seek prompt review for increasing warmth, redness, drainage, fever, sudden swelling, or a wound that opens. Breathing difficulty or severe chest discomfort needs urgent medical attention.

When should I start wearing the bra? How long should I wear it each day? Which fit and pressure are appropriate for my healing stage? Can it cover my scar or drain site? How should I wash it, and what should I do if swelling changes?