Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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The perfect fit
One of the most common causes of breast pain and discomfort is due to an ill-fitting bra. A recent study showed that 8 out of 10 women wear the wrong size bra Leading to long-term problems, Back Neck and shoulder pain, Grooves and chafing along the straps and underneath the breast. Particularly common in large breasted women.
Does my bra fit properly?
You may experience a change in bra size during your lifetime; some of the main contributing factors are most likely to be
• Pregnancy
• Weight gain
• Weight loss
• Medication
• Hormonal changes
• Menopause
The only way to make sure you are wearing the correct size is to be measured by a professional. If this is not possible, this leaflet gives you step by step guidance on how to measure yourself for a bra.
Tips and Guidance
- The wires should sit firmly on the skin, and the bra should not lift when you reach up.
- Make sure the bra is in the Centre and that both breasts are fully contained within the cup.
- Check that the back of the bra does not rub across the back.
- The cups should be parallel with the straps at the back. If it rides up you may need a bigger cup size, but a smaller band.
- A good bra will not only support your back but make you look slimmer
- It will also improve your posture.
Step One
To obtain the correct size bra measurement you need to measure the body directly under the breasts as shown in the diagram below. Please note that all measurements are quoted in inches.
Keep the tape snug under the breasts (1).
Using this measurement, add 4 if the measurement is an even number and add 5 if it is an odd number.
Example
If your measurement is 28” add 4”, resulting in a size of 32
If your measurement is 29” add 5”, resulting in a bra size of 34
After determining the bra size, the next step is to measure for cup size.
After determining the bra size, the next step is to measure for cup size.
Step Two
To determine the cup size, you need to measure over the fullest part of the breast (2), then subtract the bra size from the over bust measurement; the difference will indicate your cup size using the table shown below.
Example
If you measure 29” under bust, +5” gives you a bra size of 34, as above.
If the over bust is 36” then you take 34 away from 36, which is a 2” difference, giving you a bra/cup size of 34C
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Plastic surgery service.
About this information
Service:
Plastic surgery
Reference:
T/014
Approval date:
17 February 2026
Review date:
1 February 2028
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.