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Post-op mastectomy capsule

Sewing pattern list by thecrookedhem
Updated Jan 29, 26
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A curated list for you or someone you love while navigating breast cancer surgery. This collection of garments will be comf...

16 patterns

#1
The dolman sleeve with a low armpit seam makes getting in and out of this PJ top a breeze when you have limited arm mobility. This pattern is my MVP for post-op recovery.

Agnes PJs

Paper Theory

Bust - up to 142 cm | 55.91 in

Hip - up to 146 cm | 57.48 in

#2
No longer available, but this robe comes with a removable lining that can hold mastectomy drains. Other robe patterns could easily be hacked to incorporate a similar lining.

Tranquility Gown

Madeit Patterns

Free
Unavailable

Bust - up to 126 cm | 49.61 in

Hip - up to 134 cm | 52.76 in

#3
A classic robe is essential for staying cozy.

Arbutus Robe

Helen’s Closet Patterns

Bust - up to 152.4 cm | 60 in

Hip - up to 157.48 cm | 62 in

#4
Another classic robe.

Medlow Robe

Muna and Broad

Bust - up to 162.56 cm | 64 in

Hip - up to 181.61 cm | 71.5 in

#5
These pants have a soft, forgiving waist panel and no elastic for ultimate comfort.

Nelson Pants

Helen’s Closet Patterns

Hip - up to 157.48 cm | 62 in

#6
Who doesn’t need a comfy pair of sweats? Choose a soft elastic and err on the looser side when installing it so the pants will be even easier to get on and off.

Plateau Joggers

Closet Core Patterns

Bust - up to 152.5 cm | 60.04 in

Hip - up to 160 cm | 62.99 in

#7
Marlo has an oversized fit, especially in the chest and sleeve/armhole, which makes getting in and out of it very easy if you have tender areas, bandages, and drains.

Marlo Sweater

True Bias

Bust - up to 146.05 cm | 57.5 in

Hip - up to 151.13 cm | 59.5 in

#8
This one breaks the “no pullovers” rule but it’s the exception. Wren has a super wide hem and a batwing sleeve with a very roomy, low armhole. In a soft, unstructured knit, this top is very easy to put on without moving your arms past 45 degrees.

Wren Fleece

Daughter Judy

Bust - up to 142.24 cm | 56 in

Hip - up to 168.91 cm | 66.5 in

#9
For looking polished while staying comfortable, this shirt has ample armpit and chest ease to accommodate tender post-op areas.

Rose Raglan Button Up

Paradise Patterns

Bust - up to 147.32 cm | 58 in

Hip - up to 154.94 cm | 61 in

#10
Another relaxed fit button up shirt with ample armpit and chest ease.

Olya Shirt and Shirtdress

Paper Theory

Bust - up to 142 cm | 55.91 in

Hip - up to 146 cm | 57.48 in

#11
Fully adjustable chest fit, this could be a medical gown or regular garment depending on your fabric choice.

Snow Top

Julesmsmit

Bust - up to 144.27 cm | 56.8 in

Hip - up to 151.38 cm | 59.6 in

#12
If you are craving a dress with a fully adjustable chest fit and a roomy sleeve, this one is a classic.

Zadie Dress

Paper Theory

Bust - up to 142.24 cm | 56 in

Hip - up to 146.05 cm | 57.5 in

#13
Velcro closures in the front are very smart and make this top super easy take on and off, especially in the days immediately after surgery. A great option for summer.

Post Surgery Camisole

Blank Slate Patterns

Free

Bust - up to 132.08 cm | 52 in

#14
A practical item for holding mastectomy drains when showering.

Mastectomy Drain Bag Holder For The Shower

Create to Donate

Free
#15
To keep arms slightly away from the torso and protect sensitive areas when sleeping upright.

Heart-Shaped Mastectomy Pillow

Create to Donate

Free
#16
You can never go wrong with a cozy slide. These are easy to slip on and off without needing to lean over or use your hands/arms to slip into them.

Niles Slipper

Daughter Judy