Cotton-Lined Mastectomy & Post-Surgery Bras
After breast surgery or during radiotherapy, what your bra is made of matters as much as how it fastens or what shape it is. The Cotton-Lined Mastectomy & Post-Surgery Bras collection brings together every Gemm style where cotton is the priority — because sensitive, reactive, or healing skin deserves fabric that breathes, reduces friction, and simply feels gentle against the body.
Every bra in this collection is made from a 90% cotton, 10% elastane blend — breathable enough to wear all day, kind enough for scar tissue and radiotherapy-affected skin, and stretchy enough to accommodate the swelling variations that are common in the weeks after surgery. All styles are non-wired, front-fastening, and include bilateral soft pockets for wearing a breast prosthesis or softie on either side.
Why cotton matters so much post-surgery
Radiotherapy and surgery both change how skin behaves. Post-treatment skin can be drier, thinner, and significantly more reactive to heat, moisture, and friction than it was before. Cotton fibres allow air to circulate, wick perspiration away from the skin rather than holding it against it, and cause less rubbing than synthetic fabrics during normal movement. For women currently in recovery or undergoing radiotherapy, these aren't small differences — they're the difference between a bra that feels comfortable and one that makes an already difficult period harder.
Our breast care specialists and fitters consistently recommend cotton-lined styles for the first weeks and months following surgery, and for as long as skin remains sensitive after treatment. Many women continue to prefer them long-term, because the comfort advantage doesn't disappear once recovery is complete.
Who these bras are for
This collection is particularly suited to women in the early weeks of post-mastectomy recovery, when comfort and gentleness are the highest priorities. It's also a strong choice for anyone currently undergoing or recently completing radiotherapy to the chest area, where skin sensitivity can be significant and persistent. Women who've had a lumpectomy and want a soft, cotton-rich bra without a full prosthesis pocket will also find styles here that suit their needs.
Band sizes run from 34 to 48 — because women with larger frames deserve the same quality of post-surgery comfort as anyone else, and that shouldn't mean settling for whatever's available rather than what's genuinely right for the task.
Frequently asked questions
- Why is cotton recommended for mastectomy bras?
- Cotton is breathable, moisture-wicking, and causes less friction against the skin than synthetic alternatives. Post-surgery skin and skin affected by radiotherapy is more reactive than usual, and cotton significantly reduces the risk of heat build-up, irritation, and discomfort during recovery and everyday wear.
- Are these bras suitable during radiotherapy?
- Yes. Most breast care teams recommend cotton or high-cotton-blend bras during and after radiotherapy, as radiation treatment makes skin more sensitive to heat, moisture, and friction. All styles in this collection use a 90% cotton, 10% elastane blend throughout.
- Do these bras have prosthesis pockets?
- Yes. Every bra in this collection includes bilateral soft pockets — integrated into the cup structure on both sides — so you can wear a breast form or softie on either or both sides. The pockets are designed to hold a prosthesis securely without shifting during normal daily movement.
- What sizes are available?
- Band sizes 34 to 48 across the collection, with cup sizing varying by style. All are front-fastening, non-wired, and machine washable.
- Are these VAT exempt?
- Yes. Mastectomy bras are exempt from VAT for qualifying customers under UK law. You'll be able to confirm eligibility at checkout.
Looking for a broader range including styles beyond cotton? Our full mastectomy bra collection covers all our post-surgery styles, or read our guide to why fabric matters in a mastectomy bra for more detail.
Free UK delivery on all orders. 30-day no-quibble returns.