After a mastectomy or breast surgery, one of the most common things people are given advice about — or search for themselves — is a mastectomy pillow. But it's not always obvious exactly how they're meant to be used or what makes a good one.
Here's everything you need to know.
What is a mastectomy pillow for?
A mastectomy pillow sits under your arm on the side where you've had surgery. Its job is to protect your fresh scars from pressure, particularly from seat belts in the car, which can dig in and cause discomfort when you're healing. It also helps keep your arm slightly away from your body, which reduces strain on the surgical area.
The heart shape isn't just decorative. The V-shaped dip at the top of the heart fits neatly under your arm, with the curve sitting high enough on your chest to cushion the seatbelt.
How to use one at home
You don't only need a mastectomy pillow in the car. Many people find it helps:
- In bed — tucked under your arm to keep it away from your body while you sleep.
- On the sofa — held against your side while watching TV or reading.
- In any chair — as a soft, supportive cushion between your arm and your body while you rest.
Most of our customers tell us the pillow becomes a constant companion for the first few weeks after surgery.
What makes a good mastectomy pillow?
Our pillows have a few features that matter:
- Two 60cm ribbons that can be tied over your shoulder or across your body to keep the pillow in place while you rest, so you're not constantly repositioning it.
- Premium hollow fibre filling that keeps its shape and doesn't sink to one side (unlike bean-bag bead filling, which tends to cluster at the bottom).
- Beautiful cotton fabric from local independent designers — because something that helps you heal should also make you smile.
If you'd like to know more about our mastectomy pillows or see the full range of fabrics, take a look in the shop.
