Essentially, then, the mask is a sort of inhaler that delivers a constant supply of aerosolized anesthetic to Bane. In an Empire interview (also via Batman News) costume designer Lindy Hemming ...

It has drawn comparisons to the mask worn by the villain Bane in “The Dark Knight Rises,” the 2012 film in the “Batman” series. It also has been compared to the one worn by Hannibal Lecter ...

It's revealed in "The Dark Knight Rises" that the mask Bane wears actually keeps severe pain under control for the supervillain. The famous quote, "No one cared who I was until I put on the mask ...