Breast or chest lymphoedema

Compression bras and specialist vests are available for breast or chest lymphoedema. They often need to be made to measure to make sure that they fit properly. Your lymphoedema specialist can help you to get the right garment for your situation.

You may also need to wear a compression sleeve to stop the fluid moving from one area to another and to help to improve drainage. Compression bandaging is not often used to treat lymphoedema of the breast or chest area.

Clothes that are too tight can act like a tourniquet and may prevent lymph from draining. If your bra is too tight around the chest or if the straps dig into the shoulders and under the arm this can block the flow of lymph out of the chest. Try to wear a bra that has wide and flexible bands around the chest and shoulder straps. It's also very important to make sure you have the right cup size. Try to avoid clothing with tight waistbands.

Some breast prostheses are very heavy and can apply pressure to the chest area and may make the shoulder straps on a bra dig in. If you need to wear a prosthesis try getting a lightweight one. Your lymphoedema therapist should be able to advise you about bras and breast prostheses.

Head and neck lymphoedema

Lymphoedema of the face, neck or head is usually managed with massage. Compression garments| are not often used. However, there is a facial compression garment, which can be worn at night.

Genital lymphoedema

If you have lymphoedema of the scrotum, wearing a scrotal support may help to control the swelling. If your penis is swollen, bandaging may help and you can be taught how to do this for yourself. More companies are beginning to supply specialist garments for genital lymphoedema. Your specialist can advise which products might be helpful in your situation.