I had a lumpectomy but got the berlei post op bra before surgery as i had a rather large haematoma from the biopsies and have found it extremely comfortable after surgery as well. I just went up a cup size. The other brand i also got was Amoena. It's a wire-free sports type bra, still has the pockets in it for a mastectomy. It does have soft plastic structure for the sides, is still really comfy but it only does up the back though i thought i did see one of the same brand in David Jones that did up the front. And yes the sentinel node site is the most awkward and touchy so extra padding does help. Best wishes for your mum xo Cath