National BRA (Breast Reconstruction Awareness) Day

National BRA (Breast Reconstruction Awareness) Day is observed on the third Wednesday in October. It’s a day to raise awareness about breast reconstruction options for people who have experienced breast cancer or mastectomy, supporting informed decision‑making, education, and community.

History of National BRA Day

The BRA Day initiative — originally Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day — began in 2011 in Canada, spearheaded by plastic surgeons and cancer advocacy groups as a way to address the gap in knowledge around reconstruction after mastectomy. Over time, the concept spread to the United States and internationally, becoming a regular observance during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In the U.S., the observance was adopted to coincide with increasing momentum in plastic surgery associations and support organizations, offering patient education events, seminars, and community outreach. The Plastic Surgery Foundation helps coordinate BRA Day events across clinics, hospitals, and patient groups.

Why National BRA Day is important

For many patients, the decision about breast reconstruction can be complex, emotional, and fraught with uncertainty. National BRA Day shines a light on those choices, helping people understand that reconstruction is one option — not an obligation — and that it’s valid to explore what feels right for each individual. It also helps reduce fears, correct misinformation, and empower patients to ask their surgical teams better questions.

Additionally, BRA Day promotes equity of access and advocacy. Even when reconstruction is covered by law or insurance (as in many regions), barriers like awareness, referrals, cost, or geographic availability persist. This day draws attention to systemic gaps and encourages institutions to improve referral pathways, patient counseling, and support networks.

• It helps people learn about various reconstruction techniques
• It offers support and stories from survivors and clinicians
• It encourages earlier referrals to reconstructive surgeons
• It draws attention to policy and coverage barriers
• It supports emotional healing by affirming patient choices

How to Observe National BRA Day

Healthcare providers, clinics, and cancer centers can host seminars, panel discussions, “ask the expert” sessions, or open houses where patients and families can ask about reconstruction options and see before‑and‑after examples if patients consent. These events can be in person or virtual, making them accessible to wider communities.

Individuals might share survivor stories, fundraise for patient support groups, or use social media to amplify resources about reconstruction. If you know someone facing decisions about post‑mastectomy options, inviting them to a BRA Day event or sending them accurate, compassionate resources can be one meaningful way to support.

• Organize a patient education event at a cancer center
• Share patient stories and resources online
• Encourage medical teams to provide reconstruction referral info
• Donate to organizations offering support or scholarships
• Reach out to a person facing reconstruction to offer help or information

National BRA Day Dates Table