ARTICLE OF CLOTHING FOR SURGICAL PATIENTS

Abstract

Article of clothing for post mastectomy surgery that has, one or two breast prosthesis pockets with breast prosthesis, and one or more removable drain pocket portions, and adapted to be easily removable from a patient's body and reduce or otherwise prevent irritation.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is related to and claims benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/980,216 filed Apr. 16, 2014, entitled ARTICLE OF CLOTHING FOR MASTECTOMY PATIENTS, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an article of clothing, and more in particularly to an article of clothing for post mastectomy surgery.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Immediately following a mastectomy surgery being either unilateral or bilateral, patients are placed into bras that purport to be formed of compression material for reducing swelling. It has been found, however, that the current postoperative bras provided to patients post operation are not formed of true compression material. Because the current postoperative bras are not true compression material, the bras have been found to cause damage to the patients' skin integrity. In addition, the current postoperative bras are restrictive causing patients immense discomfort and pain, without the intended benefit of decreased swelling.

The current postoperative mastectomy bras require the patient to lift their arms for entering and existing the bra. In many cases, mastectomy patients have limited function to their upper extremities making it difficult for the patient to enter and exit the current postoperative mastectomy bras because the current bras require patients to lift their arms upwards for entry and exit thereof.

Furthermore, patients are not supposed to lift their arms for a period of time following a mastectomy surgery. And in many cases, lymph nodes are removed to either be tested for the spread of cancer or because the lymph nodes were discovered, during the mastectomy surgery, to contain cancerous cells. It has been observed that the removal of the lymph nodes during the mastectomy surgery increases patients' sensitivity to raising and lowering their arms, and makes entry and exit to the postoperative bra particularly more difficult and painful.

In general, compression materials are known to require individual fitting and sizing. However, the current postoperative bras are not properly fitted and too constricting, in addition to the fact that they are not truly a compression material. As a result, many patients are suffering from an onset of lymphedema at or near the surgical site by compressing the lymphatic system and decreasing circulation, onset of edema, and lymphedema.

These shortcomings, notably present in the current postoperative mastectomy bras, are characterized by the difficulty they present to patients due to the lack of comfort and the medical complications caused by the aforementioned compression and compromised skin.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention advantageously provides an article of clothing for post mastectomy surgery, heart surgery, or other types of surgery, the articles of clothing having a build in bra, one or two breast prosthesis pockets, and one or more removable drain pocket portions. It is expressly understood that while the instant application focuses on use following a mastectomy surgery, the invention may be implemented and utilized for other types of surgeries and procedures.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a principal object is to provide a post mastectomy garment with soft edges and surfaces to prevent irritation to the chest wall post mastectomy surgery, heart surgery, as well as other types of surgeries.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an object is to provide a combination shirt and bra for use following a mastectomy surgery, either immediately or shortly thereafter, preferably having superior softness, comfort, and convenience for a mastectomy patient. The instant embodiment having an all-in-one design.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an object is to provide a bra having one or two removable breast prosthesis pockets, one or more removable drain pump pockets, and a detachable shirt for use following a mastectomy surgery, either immediately, shortly, or anytime thereafter, preferably having superior comfort and convenience for a mastectomy patient.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an object is to provide a bra having one or two removable breast prosthesis pockets that may be connected to the front side of the bra material.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an object is to provide a bra having one or two removable breast prosthesis pockets that may be connected to either the front side or the back side of the bra material.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an object is to provide a bra having one or two removable breast prosthesis pockets that may be connected to either of the outer shirt layer and the inner shirt layer.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an object is to provide a bra having one or more drain pump pockets, the drain pump pockets having one or two or more sections, the drain pump pockets removably or permanently hang below and/or from the bra.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, another object is to provide a post mastectomy garment configured to prevent irritation to the auxiliary region for surgeries that remove lymph nodes.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, another object is to provide a post mastectomy garment configured having a full back that helps to decrease edema and/or lymphedema because the bra is not compressing on lymph nodes which could increase the edema and/or lymphedema.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, another object is to provide a sleeveless post mastectomy garment with a build in bra and one or two breast prosthesis pockets that allows a patient to have her arm wrapped and configured to account for patient swelling.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the one or two breast prosthesis stretch and retract to fit different varieties of breast prosthesis to match a patients desired breast size and shape.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the bra is removably secured at or about a desired layer, portion, member or area of the article of clothing.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the bra is removably secured to the outer shirt layer.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, another object is to provide a unilateral mastectomy garment.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, another object is to provide a bilateral mastectomy garment.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, another object is to provide a mastectomy garment to be worn by a patient post surgery which allows the patient to appear to be dressed in conventional clothing.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, another object is to provide a loose or otherwise comfortable fitting bra to be worn by a patient post surgery, which prevents or otherwise reduces the onset of lymphedema.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the article of clothing is form fitting and not mistakable as a hospital gown due to the shirt like appearance.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, one or two breast prosthesis pockets are provided that are removable. In practice, a patient may have one or two of her breasts removed via surgery. Accordingly, the patient may have a need for only one or two breast prosthesis. The instant embodiment accounts for the fact that the shirt could be used by individuals who may have a need for a left breast prosthesis and/or a right breast prosthesis. Thus, the patient or other person can customize the article of clothing and the use of one or two breast prosthesis pockets depending on the patient's need for one or two breast prosthesis.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, use of one or two breast prosthesis at varying vertical heights/positions allows the user and/or operator to adjust the symmetry of the wearer. The symmetry is particularly important following a unilateral mastectomy.

Other objects and embodiments will become evident as the present invention is described in detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present application are described herein in which similar elements are given similar reference characters, and a more complete understanding of the present invention, and the attendant advantages and features thereof, will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an article of clothing for post mastectomy surgery being worn by a patient;

FIG. 2 is an opened front view of the article of clothing shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the principles of the present embodiment;

FIG. 3 is an opened back view of the article of clothing shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the principles of the present embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a breast prosthesis pocket in a wearable position taken along line 4-4 OF FIG. 1 in accordance with the principles of the present embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a partial perspective view of the breast prosthesis pocket receiving a breast prosthesis in accordance with the principles of the present embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of drain pocket in accordance with the principles of the present embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a partially exploded view of an embodiment of the drain pocket having securement members in accordance with the principles of the present embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of a bra have removable drain pump pockets;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of a bra providing for adjustable breast prosthesis positioning;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary front view of a breast form pocket configured to be optionally removable in accordance with the principles of the present embodiment; and

FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view of a breast prosthesis pocket in a wearable adjustable position taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 9 in accordance with the principles of the present embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention advantageously provides an article of clothing for post mastectomy surgery that has a build in bra, one or two breast prosthesis pockets, and one or more removable drain pocket portions. The present invention contemplates various types of articles of clothing.

Accordingly, the components herein have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

Referring now to the drawings figures in which like reference designators refer to like elements. FIG. 1 shows an exemplary article of clothing, namely a sleeveless shirt, to be worn immediately following a mastectomy surgical procedure, the article of clothing is constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and designated generally as article of clothing “10.”

The article of clothing 10 is adapted to be easily removable from a patient's body and reduce or otherwise prevent irritation.

In particular, the article of clothing 10 may include one or more layers. Turning to FIG. 3, an outer layer 11 having an outer surface 46 (see FIG. 4) includes a right portion 12, a left portion 14, and a back portion 16 of the article of clothing 10. Other embodiments of the article of clothing 10 and/or the outer layer 11 may include more or less portions.

The article of clothing 10 may include a fastening mechanism 30, including a tie cord that passes through a portion of the article of clothing 10 at or near the lower bra band 66, which is depicted in FIGS. 1-4. The tie cord may be of desired thickness, materials and colors. The fastening mechanism 30 may alternatively include a hook and hoop faster, belt member, other like fastening members. Alternative fastening mechanisms may be carried by the article of clothing 10 along the outer surface of the outer layer 11.

The left portion 14 is integrally joined directly or indirectly with the back portion 16 along a left lower side seam 18 and along a left shoulder seam 20 to form a left armhole 22. In one embodiment, the left armhole 22 forms a left sleeveless shirt portion. Other embodiments may include an attached sleeve to provide a shirt having a sleeve as would be understood in the art.

The right portion 12 is integrally joined directly or indirectly with the back portion 16 along a right lower side seam 24 and along a right shoulder seam 26 to form a right armhole 28. In one embodiment, the right armhole 28 forms a right sleeveless shirt portion. Other embodiments may include an attached sleeve to provide a shirt having a sleeve as would be understood in the art.

The right portion 12, left portion 14, and the back portion 16 each include upper edges 31, 32, 34, respectively, that may form a neckline 36 defining a neck hole 38 (See FIGS. 1 & 3). In an embodiment, the neckline may form the shape of any of a halter, V-shaped, rounded, square, keyhole, scoop, surplice, scoop, sweetheart, or any other desired garment neckline shape.

At least a portion of the right portion 12 and the left portion 14 may define at least a portion of the outer edges 40, 42, respectively. The right and left portions 12, 14 may be joined along the outer edges 40, 42 via one or more fasteners 44. The fastener 44 of the instant embodiment depicts a zipper, however, the zipper may be substituted for hook and look material, snaps, buttons, or other fasteners. The one or more fasteners may be secured at, near, or along the outer edges 40, 42. In an embodiment, the right portion 12 and left portion 14 may join in an overlapping position (not shown), such as when buttons are implemented as fasteners 44. The patient may releasably secure the right and left portion 12, 14 together via the one or more fasteners 44 in order to secure and/or remove the article of clothing 10.

Turning to FIG. 2, the outer layer 11 includes an inner surface 48. The article of clothing 10 may include an inner bra layer 50, the inner bra layer 50 having a right bra portion 51 and a left bra portion 53. The inner bra layer 50 having an inner surface 52 (see FIG. 4) and an outer surface 54 (see FIGS. 2 & 4), as part of both the right and left bra portion 51, 53.

Turning to FIG. 4, outer layer 11 and the inner bra layer 50 may be joined to form a pocket cavity 56 adapted to hold a breast prosthesis pocket 58. In an embodiment, the breast prosthesis pocket 58 is formed of fabric, but can be formed of any suitable material. In an embodiment, the breast prosthesis pocket 58 forms a cavity 59 configured to accept and hold a breast prosthesis 60.

Turning to FIG. 5, a left side 104 of the article of clothing is shown. The right side 102 of the article of clothing has the same or similar configuration (see FIG. 2). Pocket cavity 56 may include one or more access portions 62 for accessing the pocket cavity 56 (see FIG. 4) thereof. A patient or other person may reach into the pocket cavity 56 (see FIG. 4) for accessing the breast prosthesis pocket 58. A person can manipulate the breast prosthesis pocket 58 including pulling the top portion 78 of the breast prosthesis pocket 58 from within the pocket cavity 56 to outside of the pocket cavity 56, as illustrated in FIG. 5. When breast prosthesis pocket 58 is manipulated to be substantially outside the pocket cavity 56, as depicted in FIG. 5, the patient or other person can easily insert and/or remove the breast prosthesis 60. After insertion or removal of the breast prosthesis 60, the breast prosthesis pocket 58 can be placed into the pocket cavity 56 (see FIG. 4) and snapped into place via fastening member 80 (see FIG. 4), the fastening member 80 having a male projection portion 82 and a female receiving portion 84 (see FIG. 4) that removably receives the male projection portion 82.

Still referring to FIG. 5, along the edge of the access portion 62 may include a lower bra band 66. In an embodiment, the lower bra band 66 is formed of elastic material. The breast prosthesis pocket 58 is accessible from the access portion 62.

The breast prosthesis pocket 58 may include one or more breast prosthesis access portions 64, 68 for access to the cavity 59 (See FIG. 5). While two breast prosthesis access portions are depicted on the instant embodiment of a single breast prosthesis pocket 58, one or more breast prosthesis access portions may be located anywhere on the breast prosthesis pockets 58 in operation.

In further operation, the breast prosthesis 60 may be inserted via a patient or other person into the cavity through any of the access portions 64, 68. In some embodiments, the access portions 64, 68 include a breast prosthesis cavity fastening member 70 to close the access portions for securing the breast prosthesis 60 inside the prosthesis cavity 59. The breast prosthesis cavity fastening member 70 may include any of hook and loop material, buttons, snaps, clasps, magnetic fastening members, zipper mechanisms, overlapping fabric with or without elastic material, or other types of fastening members.

The breast prosthesis pocket 58 may include one or more lower bra snaps fastening members 72 that removably secures a bottom portion 74 of the breast prosthesis pocket 58 to an inner surface 76 of the lower bra band 66 or otherwise about the inner bra layer 50, or other desired layer, or some other desired portion of the article of clothing 10. The bottom portion 74 may be removably secured along the width of the breast prosthesis pocket 58 via fastening members 72, which is illustrated having two fastening members 72 in FIG. 5. The one or more fastening members 72 of the instant embodiment illustrate snap locking members the same or similar to element (see FIG. 4), however, fastening members 72 may include any of hook and loop material, buttons, clasps, magnetic fastening members, zipper mechanisms, or other types of fastening members.

Referring to FIGS. 4 & 5, unfastening the fastening members 72, 80 allows the breast prosthesis pocket 58 to be removed completely. The patient can optionally choose to use either one or two breast prosthesis pockets 58 on the right and left sides 102, 104 of the article of clothing 10, depending on surgical need or desire. For example, if the patient only has one breast removed in the mastectomy surgery, then the patient would likely choose to use only one of the two possible breast prosthesis pockets 58, in which case the extra breast prosthesis pocket 58 can be placed aside or discarded. The breast prosthesis pocket 58 and breast prosthesis 60 may be secured by the patient or other person to the article of clothing on either the right or left side 102, 104, (see FIG. 2 depicting the removable attachment of two breast prosthesis pockets 58) or may use two breast prosthesis pockets 58 and two breast prosthesis 60 on the right and left sides 102 of the article of clothing 10 (see FIGS. 1 & 2).

Turning to FIGS. 5 & 6, a drain pocket 86 is shown (see also FIG. 2 depicting two drain pockets 86 on the left and right side 102, 104). The drain pocket 86 is shown having two sections, a first section 88 and a second section 90, the two sections separated by an edge 92. The edge 92 may be created via sewing along a length of the drain pocket 86. Each of the first section 88 and the second section 90 sized and configured to hold a drain system. For example, a Jackson-Pratt drain system is commonly used as a post-operative drain for collecting bodily fluids from surgical sites and may used in conjunction with the drain pocket 86. The drain pocket 86 has one or more cavities 94 configured to accept and removably hold at least a portion of the drain system (FIG. 6 depicts two individual cavities 94). In an embodiment, the drain pocket 86 is secured either directly or indirectly to the inner bra layer 50, including the lower bra band 66. The drain pocket 86 may include one or more extension members 96 for lowering and/or carrying the drain pocket 86 at a distance below the inner bra layer 50. In an embodiment, the one or more extension members 96 are connected permanently to the article of clothing 10. In another embodiment, the one or more extension members 96 are releasably connected to the article of clothing 10 via one or more fastening members 98 (see FIG. 4 depicting the same or similar fastening members). The one or more fastening members 98 of the instant embodiment depict male snap locking members 100 to be joined with a female receiving portion, however, fastening members 98 may include any of hook and loop material, buttons, clasps, magnetic fastening members, zipper mechanisms, or other types of fastening members.

Turning to FIG. 2, the right side 102, the left side 104, and a back side 106 is shown. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the right side 102 and the left side 104 are symmetrical and reference at least mostly mirror image parts. The right and left sides 102, 104 having the back side 106 joined, such as via sewing, therebetween for forming a shirt. The lower bra band 66 having a first end 108 and a second end 110 that releasably mate together via clasp members 112, 114, hook and loop, or other like bra securement members, material around a patient's chest to form a closed or clasped bra.

In an embodiment, at or near the outer edge 118 of the outer layer 11 may be joined with the outer edge 116 of the inner bra layer 50 at least partially essentially along either or both of LINES A and B.

In an embodiment, at or near the outer edge 120 of the outer layer 11 may be joined with the outer edge 121 of the inner bra layer 50 at least partially essentially along either or both of LINES C and D, but not along lines A and B.

In an embodiment (not shown), a standalone bra may be provided without implementation of the outer layer 11 (see FIG. 1) in accordance with the spirit and scope of the instant invention. In operation, the user can take advantage of the inner bra layer 50 as combined with the advantages of one or two removable breast prosthesis pockets 58 and one or more removable drain pockets 86.

In an embodiment (not shown), a standalone inner bra layer 50 removably joins with the outer layer 11 (see FIG. 1) in accordance with the spirit and scope of the instant invention. In operation, the user could choose whether to pair the inner bra layer 50 with the outer layer 11.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a post-operative bra 2002 that is operably placed around a patient post mastectomy operation is shown, the post-operative bra 2002 has an outer surface 2006 and an inner surface 2026. The post-operative bra 2002 has a back panel 2004 defining at least a portion of the outer surface 2006 of the post-operative bra 2002. A right front chest panel 2008 defines at least another portion of the outer surface 2006 of the post-surgical bra 2002. A left front chest panel 2010 defines at least a portion of the outer surface 2006 of the post-operative bra 2002. In an embodiment, the back panel 2004, the right front chest panel 2008, and the left front chest panel 2010 form at least a portion of the body portion 2016 of the post-operative bra 2002.

The post-surgical bra 2002 further includes a left shoulder strap 2012 and right shoulder strap 2014. A left drainage receiving assembly 2018 is coupled, directly or indirectly, to the left front chest panel 2010. A right drainage receiving assembly 2020 is coupled, directly or indirectly, to the right front chest panel 2008.

While the instant embodiment shows the right and left drainage receiving assemblies 2018, 2020 operatively removably attach and detach via a plurality of buttons 2024 about the outer surface 2006, it is not so required and may instead be secured about the inner surface 2026 or to about surface, or the like. The drainage receiving assemblies 2018, 2020 each having at least a first pocket 2028, 2032 and a second pocket 2030, 2034, respectively, that operatively allow for separation of contents between the first pocket 2028, 2032 and the second pocket 2030, 2034 for each of the one or more drainage receiving assemblies 2018, 2020.

The left shoulder strap 2012 defines a first left shoulder strap portion 2036 extending from the back panel 2004 to a first left distal end 2038 and a second left shoulder strap portion 2040 extending from the left front chest panel 2010 to a second left distal end 2042.

The right shoulder strap 2014 defines a first right shoulder strap portion 2044 extending from the back panel 2004 to a first right distal end 2046 and a second right shoulder strap portion 2048 extending from the right front chest panel 2008 to a second right distal end 2050.

The first and second left shoulder strap portions 2036, 2040 are adapted to removably join about their distal ends 2038, 2042, and the first and second right shoulder strap portions 2046, 2050 adapted to removably join about their distal ends. The distal ends 2038, 2042, 2046, 2050 are secured via one or more fasteners, such as buttons, hook and loop material, snaps, or the like.

In one embodiment, the first and second left shoulder strap portions 2036, 2040, 2044, 2048, for the right shoulder strap 2014 and/or the left shoulder strap 2012, are configured to rest substantially against the shoulders of a wearer. In an alternative embodiment, the first and second left shoulder strap portions 2036, 2040, 2044, 2048 are configured to rest forward of the shoulders of the wearer.

In one embodiment, the drainage receiving assemblies 2018, 2020 are each internally divided into at least two pockets, 2028, 2030, 2032, 2034 operating to separate the contents found in each drainage receiving assembly. For example, following a double mastectomy surgery, the patient may have two drainage bulbs extending from the left side of the patient's body and may have two drainage bulbs extending from the right side of the patient's body. In this case, the drainage receiving assemblies provide dual pockets on each side of the patient's body to hold each of the four drainage bulbs separately. In an alternative embodiment, the instant bra may only be used with a single drainage receiving assembly 2018, 2020 following a post-mastectomy surgery of a single female breast, as would be understood in hindsight upon review of the instant application.

As further shown in the figures, at least of a portion of the drainage receiving assembly 2018, 2020 abutting the outer surface 2006 and further extends below the bottom edge 2052 of the post-operative bra 2002. In non-limiting exemplary operation, the drainage receiving assemblies 2018, 2020 hang at least partially below the front chest panels 2008, 2010.

Still referring to FIG. 8, a zipper 2054 is shown secured intermediate the right and left front chest panels 2008, 2010 that operates to removably join the right and left front chest panels 2008, 2010 along an edge 2056 via the zipper 2054.

A zipper guard, not expressly shown in this embodiment, but similarly found in the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, is provided to protect the chest wall of wearer from irritation caused by the zipper, particularly when used immediately following a single or double mastectomy surgery.

Referring now to FIGS. 9-11, an embodiment of a post-surgical bra 3002 formed at least of a first right chest panel 3004 and a first left chest panel 3006.

As shown in FIG. 10, a breast prosthesis retaining assembly 3008 is shown. One or more breast prosthesis retaining assemblies 3008 are disposed about the post-surgical bra 3002, as exemplified in FIG. 9. The breast prosthesis retaining assembly 3008 is operable to retain a breast prosthesis 3026 in accordance with the spirit and scope of the current invention. The breast prosthesis retaining assembly 3008 includes an upper portion 3010 and a lower portion 3012. The upper portion 3010 includes a fastener 3014.

In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the fastener 3014 includes a hook portion 3016. The hook portion 3016 is insertable into an opening 3018 of a fastener receiving portion 3020. In the instant embodiment, the fastener receiving portion 3020 forms multiple loops 3022 and multiple openings 3018 by which the substantially vertical attachment point of the fastener 3014 can be adjusted. In operation, altering the point of attachment of the fastener 3014 adjusts the height of the breast prosthesis retaining assembly and of the breast prosthesis 3026.

In an embodiment shown in FIG. 9, a second right chest panel 3028 is joined to the first right chest panel 3004 forming a right breast prosthesis pocket 3036. Optionally, the pocket includes an opening 3030 accessible from below.

A second left chest panel 3032 is joined to the first left chest panel 3006 forming a left breast prosthesis pocket 3038. Optionally the pocket includes an opening 3034 accessible from below.

One or both of the right and left breast prosthesis pockets 3036, 3038 are adapted to receive the at least one breast prosthesis retaining assembly.

In an embodiment, the right and left breast prosthesis pockets are adapted to receive and secure one or both of a right and left drainage receiving assembly 3040, 3042 in accordance with the spirit and scope of the instant invention. The right and left drainage receiving assembly 3040, 3042 each includes a seam 3044, 3046 that creates dual drainage pockets for content separation.

Still referring to FIG. 9, a zipper 3054 is shown secured intermediate the right and left front chest panels 3004, 3006, the zipper 3054 that operates to removably join the right and left front chest panels 3004, 3006 along an edge 3056 via the zipper 3054.

A zipper guard 3058 is provided to extend behind the zipper in a secured position. The post-mastectomy zipper guard 3058 operates to protect the chest wall of wearer from irritation caused by the zipper, particularly when used immediately following a single or double post mastectomy surgery.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described herein above. In addition, unless mention was made above to the contrary, it should be noted that all of the accompanying drawings are not to scale. A variety of modifications and variations are contemplated in light of the above teachings without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. It will be readily apparent that various changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure or sacrificing all of its material advantages. The examples and embodiments described herein are merely exemplary of the instant disclosure.

Claims

1. A post-surgical bra comprising:

a body portion having a back panel defining at least a portion of an outer surface of the post-surgical bra, a right front chest panel defining at least another portion of said outer surface of the post-surgical bra, a left front chest panel defining at least a portion of said outer surface of the post-surgical bra, a left and right shoulder strap defining a portion of said body portion; and

at least one drainage receiving assembly removably secured about said body portion.

2. The post-surgical bra of claim 1, wherein said left shoulder strap defining a first left shoulder strap portion extending from said back panel to a first left distal end and a second left shoulder strap portion extending from said left front chest panel to a second left distal end, and wherein said right shoulder strap defining a first right shoulder strap portion extending from said back panel to a first right distal end and a second right shoulder strap portion extending from said right front chest panel to a second right distal end.

3. The post-surgical bra of claim 2, wherein said first and second left shoulder strap portions adapted to removably join about their distal ends, and wherein said first and second right shoulder strap portions adapted to removably join about their distal ends.

4. The post-surgical bra of claim 3, wherein said first and second left shoulder strap portions are configured to rest substantially against the shoulders of a wearer.

5. The post-surgical bra of claim 1, wherein at least one drainage receiving assembly is internally divided into at least two pockets.

6. The post-surgical bra of claim 1, wherein said at least one drainage receiving assembly is securable to said outer surface of the post-surgical bra.

7. The post-surgical bra of claim 6, wherein at least a portion of said at least one drainage receiving assembly extends below said body portion.

8. The post-surgical bra of claim 1, further comprising an intermediate zipper, wherein said left and right front chest panels removably join along an edge via said intermediate zipper.

9. The post-surgical bra of claim 1, further comprising a zipper guard disposed behind an intermediate zipper.

10. A post-surgical bra comprising:

a bra body formed at least of a first right chest panel and a first left chest panel; and

at least one removable breast prosthesis retaining assembly disposed about said bra body.

11. The post-surgical bra of claim 10, wherein said at least one breast prosthesis retaining assembly includes an upper portion and a lower portion, said upper portion securable at a plurality of vertical retaining portions.

12. The post-surgical bra of claim 10, wherein said at least one removable breast prosthesis retaining assembly includes an upper portion and a lower portion, said upper portion securable along a plurality of fixed heights.

13. The post-surgical bra of claim 10, further comprising:

a second right chest panel joined to said first right chest panel forming a right breast prosthesis pocket;

a second left chest panel joined to said first left chest panel forming a left breast prosthesis pocket; and

wherein at least one of said right and left breast prosthesis pockets adapted to receive said at least one removable breast prosthesis retaining assembly.

14. The post-surgical bra of claim 10, further comprising:

a second right chest panel joined to said first right chest panel forming a right breast prosthesis pocket;

a second left chest panel joined to said first left chest panel forming a left breast prosthesis pocket; and

wherein at least one of said right and left breast prosthesis pockets adapted to maintain said at least one breast prosthesis retaining assembly at a plurality of vertical heights.

15. The post-surgical bra of claim 14, wherein said at least one breast prosthesis retaining assembly includes an upper portion and a lower portion, said upper portion coupled with a fastener, said right and left breast prosthesis pockets include fastener receiving elements incorporated substantially vertically, wherein said fastener receiving elements are adapted to receive and attach with said fastener.

16. The post-surgical bra of claim 15, wherein said lower portion attaches with at least one said right and left breast prosthesis pockets via a button.