A Customised Comfort Bra to Aid Recovery from Mastectomy

HKRITA
Overview

This project has developed a novel and customised mastectomy bra which addresses the different needs of patients recovering from mastectomy and accommodates requirements related to age, BMI and body shape by utilising ergonomic design and 3D material engineering technology.

  • A Customised Comfort Bra to Aid Recovery from Mastectomy 0
Technical name of innovation
A Customised Comfort Bra to Aid Recovery from Mastectomy
Research completion
2022
Commercialisation opportunities
Technology licensing
Problem addressed

The majority of recovering patients wear a mastectomy bra with external breast prosthesis. Since most breast prostheses are designed based on Western models, it is often difficult for breast cancer patients in Asia to find a comfortable fit in weight and shape. Besides, the prosthesis generates heat, which in turn leads to the trapping of sweat within the bra.

Innovation
  • With the aid of an accurate and customised measurement of the individual wearer’s body silhouette to develop the bra while taking into consideration a number of factors, including an individual’s life style and recovery progress 
  • To employ sophisticated ergonomic design and 3D material engineering to develop the bra and its removable bra pad. The bra pad is adjustable in accordance to the wearer's age and breast density.
  • The 3D-printable elastomeric mesh materials provide a bra pad with a soft hand feel that can minimise the problems of heat generation and trapping of sweat
Key impact
  • Offering a better thermal comfort experience for patients at a lower cost, relieving potential health problems and psychological pressures during recovery.
Award
  • Gold Medal in the Special Edition 2022 Inventions Geneva Evaluation Days
Application
  • Bra design and production for women after mastectomy

Patent

  • 63/266,948
The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA)

Established in 2006, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) is funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR government, and hosted by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. 

HKRITA has achieved research deliverables over the years around our research clusters targeting in sustainability, industry advancement and social benefits through our centre-owned research teams and laboratories as well as collaborations with industry partners and institutions. 

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