# Design and Evaluation of Masteromy Bras Using 3D Virtual Prototyping
## 2 Methodology
### Design Criteria Used in the Development of Masterctomy Bras  
To determine the design criteria for mastectomy bras, data were analyzed using document and visual analysis methods, sourced from the academic literature, e-commerce platforms, and physical shopping centers. In this study, the relevant academic literature was examined, products and customer reviews on e-commerce platforms were analyzed, and mastectomy bras available in physical stores were evaluated. Thus, the design needs of mastectomy bras were identified in a more comprehensive manner. The deficiencies in existing bras and the characteristics expected by users from these products formed the foundation for determining the design criteria. The criteria included identifying user needs, selecting appropriate fabrics, and optimizing bra components to achieve both functionality and aesthetics. Additionally, evaluating and refining the prototype's effectiveness represented a critical phase in the design process [16].  
Our previous studies comprehensively examined the structure of mastectomy bras, the materials used, product performance characteristics, and user expectations. This research also included an in-depth design analysis of leading mastectomy bra models in the market, focusing on raw materials, accessory details, color options, closure mechanisms, model features, and aesthetic appeal [30; 31].  
The design criteria considered during the development of mastectomy bras are presented in Table 1.  
\begin{table}
\begin{tabular}{c c c} \hline \hline
**Design Criterion** & **Requirement** & **Design Solution** \\ \hline \multirow{6}{*}{Fabric and Seam Type Selection} & Preventing skin irritation [32] & Utilizing optimal raw material, construction, and garment design detail with minimal seam line to reduce irritation [16] \\  & Preventing prosthesis movement and enhancing stability [33; 34] & Using fabrics that prevent prosthesis slippage and improve stability through elasticity and proper design [33; 34] \\  & Providing support to breast tissue [35] & Employing flexible materials that support breast tissue and prevent sagging while maintaining natural shape [35] \\ \hline \multirow{6}{*}{Shoulder Straps and Wing Design} & Managing the weight of breasts and prostheses [36] & Designing wide shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly and reduce shoulder pressure [37] \\  & Reducing muscle strain and discomfort caused by narrow straps [36] & Using straps with adjustable width and length to ensure user comfort during prolonged wear [38] \\ \cline{2-3}  & Securing prosthesis stability and preventing slippage during movement [39] & Internally lined cups to prevent prosthesis slippage or exerting pressure on scars, ensuring secure fit and user comfort [39] \\ \hline \multirow{6}{*}{Cup Design and Support} & Supporting breast tissue and prosthesis while maintaining natural breast shape [16] & Double-panel cup designs provide better support and shaping compared to single-panel designs [40] \\  & Distributing pressure evenly at the & Incorporating internal support structures to distribute pressure evenly and enhance user comfort \\ \cline{1-1}  & Avoiding irritation caused by stiff and shaped underwire material [39] & Designing wire-free cups to provide optimal comfort and minimize discomfort, particularly in sensitive scar areas [16; 39] \\ \hline \hline \end{tabular}
\end{table}
Table 1: Design criteria and solutions for mastectomy bras.