Post-Surgical Chest Garment with Trapezoidal Compression Pad
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support garments for post-breast surgery recovery do not effectively restore proper cleavage between breast implants, lacking a specific support system for the cleavage area to aid in healing and shaping.
Innovation Solution
A support garment with an elongated non-roll elastic compression pad of variable thickness and width, mounted on the inside of the front panel, applies predetermined pressure to the cleavage area using a trapezoidal compression pad design, which can be permanent or interchangeable, to support and shape the muscles and tissues during the healing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If existing support garments are used, then basic post-surgical support is provided, but proper cleavage between breast implants cannot be restored
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by incorporating a compression pad with specific geometric configuration (trapezoidal cross-section with slanted side walls) positioned precisely in the cleavage area. This localized structural element provides targeted compression and shaping forces to the cleavage region, while the rest of the garment maintains general support functions. The variable thickness and width of the compression pad allow customized pressure distribution exactly where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The garment is segmented into functional zones: a front panel with integrated compression pad for cleavage support, side panels for lateral support, and a back panel for overall stability. This segmentation allows each region to perform its specific function - the compression pad focuses on cleavage definition while other regions provide general post-surgical support, thereby resolving the contradiction between basic support and specialized cleavage restoration.
2Reliability
If a compression pad is added to apply predetermined pressure, then cleavage area support is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression pad is merged with the front panel of the garment, integrating the specialized cleavage support function directly into the existing garment structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate attachment mechanisms or additional components, as the compression pad becomes an inherent part of the front panel assembly, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining healing support effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression pad utilizes parameter changes in its geometric configuration - specifically variable thickness and width with slanted side walls - to achieve predetermined pressure distribution. By optimizing these geometric parameters during manufacturing, the pad provides exact pressure requirements without needing adjustable mechanisms, complex fastening systems, or multiple components, thus maintaining simplicity while ensuring reliable healing support.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the compression pad is made permanent, then cleavage support consistency is improved, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression pad system incorporates dynamic characteristics by allowing interchangeability between different pad configurations. While each individual pad is permanently attached to provide stable positioning, the system as a whole enables dynamic adaptation through the ability to remove and replace pads. This dynamic feature allows adjustment of compression characteristics based on healing progression or specific surgical requirements, resolving the contradiction between positioning stability and adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The garment provides secure and customizable support to the cleavage area, enhancing the healing process by maintaining proper cleavage definition and tissue growth, addressing symmastia and mastectomy recovery needs.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated non-roll elastic compression pad which can be mounted permanently on the inside of the front panel of the support garment
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is directed to patients who need vertical support in the cleavage area due to symmastia repair or reconstruction of the chest cleavage for breast reconstruction after mastectomy. The support garment is designed not to support the breast or nipple area of the chest. The Y support which fits the patient close to the neck and between the breasts is attached to a full back panel using self adjusting velcro closures. This unique design creates a force much like a bow to provide constant pressure from front to back on the cleavage area only to allow scar tissue to form during the healing process. The cross link high density foam insert maintains even pressure during healing and does not lose its resiliency or permit permanent deformation.