Best mastectomy swimsuits for style at the beach or pool

There's no need to compromise on style with these pretty swimsuits.

White Stuff, TU and La Redoute Swimsuits on a Gradient Background

by Emily Gilbert |
Updated on

Below, are the best mastectomy swimsuits when you want to look (and feel) fabulous. If you've previously had a mastectomy, your requirements for swimwear will be a little bit different from someone who hasn't. That's why you'll want a specific mastectomy swimsuit. Yours Online asked Annik Reding from Nicola Jane, the mastectomy and post-surgery bra specialists, to explain more about what swimwear to look for.

What is a mastectomy swimsuit? Well, a mastectomy swimsuit looks the same as any other regular swimsuit does. However, it has a few added details to make it suitable for a woman who has gone through breast cancer and breast surgery. All swimsuits have hidden pockets to accommodate a breast prosthesis and higher necklines to cover possible scarring. Mastectomy swimsuits differ from normal ones.

Best mastectomy swimsuits for style at a glance

Best for colour range: Retro Ruched Bathing Suit - Buy now on Amazon UK
Best mastectomy swimsuit: Women's Tugless Swimsuit - Mastectomy - Buy now on Lands' End
Best budget mastectomy swimsuit: Black Post Surgery Leaf Print Scoop Neck Swimsuit - Buy now on George Asda

Mastectomy swimwear is designed for post-surgery wear. Each swimwear style features discreet, elasticated pockets to hold a breast prosthesis securely. This allows women to feel confident that the breast form will stay in place, even during activity. If the pocket is not needed, it will fold back and act as an additional lining. There is a range of different neckline options available, to offer the best coverage for each woman and body type.

Higher neckline options are perfect for ladies who require a little more coverage to hide any scarring or indentation from the surgery or radiotherapy. All styles also feature integrated soft bust cups to help provide an even and smooth shape. This can cover any subtle differences between the breast prosthesis and the natural side. We've found the best mastectomy swimsuits for style and ultimate confidence.

Best mastectomy swimsuits UK

Best for colour range

Aidotop Womens One Piece Swimsuit Tummy Control Swimwear with Retro Ruched Monokini Bathing SuitsAidotop / Amazon

Perfect for the beach, pool or where your heart desires, this Retro Ruched Bathing Suit combines classic stylings with retro, vibrant patterns to suit any taste. All in one, this pick flatters the abdomen, for all body types to feel comfortable to wear and swim in. With the adjustable straps at the back and removal shaping around the breast panel, you'll be able to modify this to feel confident post-surgery.

Thanks to the 70 reviews on Amazon, we have a good understanding of this product, which has earned a decent 4.4/5 star rating from customers. Reviews agree that the quality of this swimwear is amazing, with appearance and fit being praised. They also comment that it's flattering - with good tummy control - and wide straps for post-surgery make you feel comfortable and confident. Some customers found the bust cups to be the wrong size for them - so make sure to use the adjustable straps to solve this.

Pros

  • Classic one-piece swimsuit
  • Flattering to the tummy
  • Adjustable straps at the back

Cons

  • Some customers found the bust cups to be the wrong size for them
SizesM to XL

Best mastectomy swimsuit

Women's Tugless Swimsuit - MastectomyLands' End

A post-surgery swimsuit with Tugless comfort, this Women's Tugless Swimsuit - Mastectomy is our favourite choice. Simple, effective and flattering, this pick is made from nylon, elastane and Lycra Xtra Life which resists breakdown from choline, sunscreen and heat. It's a winner. Soft cup, a flattering silhouette with a concealed pocket on each side to hold a prosthesis, this swimsuit has been made fit for purpose. If you're looking for some coverage, but don't want to compromise on comfort, this is the best pick for you. Unfortunately, it cannot be washed in a machine - handwash only.

Pros

  • Lightly padded with a concealed pocket for prosthesis
  • Higher-cut armholes and neckline for coverage
  • Comfortable, fuss-free with a flattering fit

Cons

  • It cannot be washed in a machine - handwash only
Sizes6 to 18

Best budget mastectomy swimsuit

Black Post Surgery Leaf Print Scoop Neck SwimsuitGeorge ASDA

We love the Black Post Surgery Leaf Print Scoop Neck Swimsuit from George at Asda. With a scoop neckline and adjustable shoulder straps, this is a flattering swimsuit. Whether at the pool or the beach, the lightly added cups will give you the confidence to step outside post-surgery and join in the fun (in the sun). It has a delightful leaf-print pattern, adorned with gold details that we can't resist.

With an overall 4/5 star rating, this Asda swimsuit is good value for money and quality. Though one customer didn't feel it was high enough for their post-surgery confidence, another review loved it. They called it flattering and at a fantastic price, but had to size it down because it was a little big.

Pros

  • With a flattering scoop-fit neckline
  • Lightly padded cups for confidence
  • Fabulous pattern with some plus-size fits

Cons

  • Customers recommend sizing down
Sizes10 to 22

Best tankini top for mastectomy

Women's Flutter Tankini Top - MastectomyLands' End
Price: £82.95

Reclaim your beach confidence post-surgery with the Women's Flutter Tankini Top - Mastectomy from Lands' End. Adjustable with a padded strap and a soft cup bra with prosthesis pockets, this tankini top has been made for a post-surgery swim. Made from a collection of nylons, Lycra, which resists chlorine and sunscreen breakdown, this hand-washable poolside top offers coverage if you're feeling down about your scarring. Loose-fitting and comfy, it can be mixed and matched with any bottom.

Pros

  • Pair with your choice of swim bottoms
  • Loose-fitting tankini top, comfy to wear
  • Lightly padded with a prosthesis pocket

Cons

  • It cannot be washed in a machine - handwash only
Sizes8 - 20-22

Best mastectomy swimsuit for tummy control

M&S Collection never lets us down. Their Post Surgery Tummy Control Swimsuit is not only a flattering choice but has UPF50+ tech to protect us from harmful UV rays. From soft, breathable fabric comes comfortable support for any scarring and an added stretch that gives you a little leeway, to make sure you're as comfortable as can be. Plus, the high-neck and zip front detailer offers an elegant detail, whether at the pool, beach or on a cruise. What are the reviews saying?

From over 70 reviews, this has an average 4.5/5 star rating, with customers praising the high-quality material, and comfortable stretch feel to help scarring and avoid any nerve pain when in the water. Customers like that it covers the areas you may not want to show off. However, some customers were unhappy with various fit issues, so it may not be a one-swimsuit-fits-all option. It's the perfect piece with a versatile size and modern shapes. It's playful and will keep you feeling confident.

Pros

  • With Sun Smart UPF50+ tech which helps to protect against UV rays
  • High-raise fit with breathable fabric - comfort for any scarring
  • Magic 360 Tummy Control uses a layer of power mesh for your shape

Cons

  • Some customers found the fit didn't work for their body
Sizes8 to 16

Best two-piece set

Ruched Tummy Control Two-Piece SwimsuitUMIPUBO / Amazon

With a ruched design and adjustable shoulder straps, this Ruched Tummy Control Two-Piece Swimsuit is one of our favourite choices for a post-surgery swim. Skin-friendly and smooth, this swimming costume is comfy to wear, whether beach, at pool parties, at the seaside or on holiday. Anywhere anytime, this charming set covers any belly fat, and the removable padded bras will be able to help with post-mastectomy scarring confidence; not to mention an elegantly printed pattern. What about reviews?

Customers like this set, earning it a 4.1/5 average star rating, which flatters their shape, and body type and controls their tummy, too. However, one customer did not like this pick, citing it as not comfy to wear. So, it'll be up to your personal taste, body type and what types of costumes you may be used to.

Pros

  • Made of breathable, lightweight, quick-drying, soft fabric
  • High waisted set helps with tummy control for confidence
  • Showcases a classic ruched fit with adjustable straps

Cons

  • One customer did not find it comfy to wear
SizesS to XXL

Best premium swimsuit pick

Women's Grecian V-neck Slender Swimsuit - MastectomyLands' End

Definition meets comfort with the Women's Grecian V-neck Slender Swimsuit - Mastectomy, which has all-over control to help you feel confident after any surgery. With a v-neck, high back and soft bra for prosthesis, this UPF 50-safe swimsuit resists any chlorine or sunscreen breakdown. It's equipped for any poolside eventuality. We love the neckline and the lightly draped overlay that creates waist definition. Firm and smooth, the snug-feeling fit makes the swimsuit one of our favourites.

Pros

  • Styled with a glamorous Grecian-inspired neckline
  • With a lightly padded bra with a prosthesis pocket
  • Slims and supports in all the right places

Cons

  • Sizes 6, 8 and 10 are not available
Sizes12 to 20

Best reversible tankini top for post-surgery

Sunshine Printed V-Neck Halterneck Tankini TopMarks and Spencer

The flattering v-neckline and adjustable halterneck straps of this White Stuff Sunshine Printed V-Neck Halterneck Tankini Top ensure that scars will be covered. This offers two looks in one, with two reversible geometric patterns for you to enjoy. You don't need to overpack to impress. This will help you look fabulous and regain some body confidence post-surgery, for sure. tie-fastening, this top has been made from recycled nylon and elastane for an eco-friendly but comfortable, slimming fit.

Customers from M&S love this pick for its fit, lovely colour and good quality material. Pair with the Geometric Reversible Bikini Top and Reversible Bottoms for a stylish complete swimwear set.

Pros

  • Wide size range for all bodies, from sizes 6 to 22
  • Reversible design offers two poolside looks in one
  • Flattering v-neckline and adjustable straps

Cons

  • Blue may not be your colour!
Sizes6 to 24

Best with racerback design

Post Surgery Racerback SwimsuitLa Redoute

La Redoute's commitment to sustainable, stylish fashion is why we love this French brand. As such, this Post Surgery Racerback Swimsuit has all you need if you've just had a mastectomy, from the removal pads, wide pockets at the chest for prostheses, wide adjustable straps and non-underwired breast cups. This way, you're taken care of - and feel confident to step out into the sun and dip in a pool. The fabric is a lovely textured polyester with elastane for comfort, a flattering fit and practicality.

Pros

  • Discreetly accommodates your prostheses with pickets
  • With a racerback strap at the back for comfort/adjustment
  • Simple black colour with a textured fabric, soft satin sheen

Cons

  • Do not tumble dry - delicate wash only
Sizes8 to 20

Best for bright, colourful

Pink Textured Post Surgery SwimsuitGeorge ASDA

Whether a sunny getaway or a spay day, this Pink Textured Post-Surgery Swimsuit comes from TU Clothing with high praise. Deisgned for those of who have undergone breast surgery, it has hidden prosthesis pockets for comfort, support wide straps and removable pads. Made from a soft, textured fabric which has been made from recycled yarns and is non-wired for confidence, this pick is equipped to help you feel comfy and confident. What are the customer reviews saying?

Customers love this pick for its fit, lovely pink colour and reasonable price.

Pros

  • Made from recycled plastic and elastane for comfort
  • Complete with hidden prosthesis pockets for comfort
  • Wide straps and removable pads for the perfect fit

Cons

  • Only pink colour available
Sizes6 to 26

FAQs

What should I look for in a mastectomy swimsuit?

A mastectomy swimsuit should always have integrated pockets to securely hold a breast form if you are wearing one. The neckline is also important, as a lot of ladies prefer to choose a swimsuit or bikini that has a higher neckline to give a little more coverage. However, there are also V-neck options that are less high-cut. It is important to choose something that you feel comfortable with!
At Nicola Jane, we also offer a range of swimsuits and tankinis that include a tummy control lining, to smoothen and even out the tummy area. This is often a great, confident-boosting option for ladies who have had a breast reconstruction with skin taken from that area.
If you are a regular swimmer, it is important to look out for a chlorine-resistant style. These swimsuits are designed to withstand the damaging effects of chlorine and saltwater.

When can I start wearing a swimsuit after a mastectomy?

You can start wearing a swimsuit after a mastectomy as soon as your wounds from the surgery start to heal up. We always advise you to wear a softie or lightweight breast form for the first 6-8 weeks. This gives the body time to heal before wearing a silicone or beaded breast form. It is therefore important to give yourself this time to recover before you try on a breast form suitable for swimming.

Features & Reviews Editor Emily Gilbert has been a journalist since 2016 and has worked across a variety of specialist and lifestyle brands both in print and online. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases, her favourite being gadgets for the home.

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