Women who have undergone a mastectomy due to breast cancer should not feel like they have to give up the chance to wear supportive bras and stylish bra liners just because they no longer have breast tissue. how to choose a mastectomy bra With the aid of professional counseling and fitting, you may choose the ideal mastectomy bra for every occasion.
Getting a mastectomy must have been really difficult for you. The fight will continue even while you recover from surgery. Purchasing your first prosthetic breasts after a mastectomy is a major emotional and physical step toward recovery. Finding the right bras may aid in regaining feelings of completeness, confidence, and control. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind when you make your final decision. tips for picking the right mastectomy bra, In this essay, we take a closer look and provide more information on this. how to choose a mastectomy bra how to choose a mastectomy bra.
What exactly is a mastectomy?
A mastectomy is defined as. A bilateral mastectomy is the removal of both breasts for the purpose of screening for or treating breast cancer. A bilateral mastectomy is performed only when cancer has spread to both breasts at the same time. Most women diagnosed with breast cancer will choose to have both breasts surgically removed.
Recovery after a mastectomy is different for every patient since no two surgeries are the same. There will be further follow-up appointments a week or two following the treatment, as well as a short in-hospital stay
Bras for After Breast Reconstruction Surgery
There is an increased risk of infection after a bilateral mastectomy, but other than that, the healing period is the same as after a unilateral mastectomy. For the next several weeks, you’ll need to keep the surgical drains in place on the side of your chest.
The following are examples of probable postoperative complications:
Lymphedema may cause discomfort in the arms, fatigue, infections, phantom breast pain, and numbness.
Whether you choose breast reconstruction or a prosthesis, you will need a supportive bra in the days and weeks after your procedure. Velvet linings on certain mastectomy bras are easy on the skin and help conceal scars. Some mastectomy bras even have special compartments for prostheses.
Women who have had this procedure have options when it comes to selecting a bra. Depending on your specific needs, several types of healing settings may be more or less effective for you.
Bra selection for the ideal mastectomy
During the healing process, finding the right mastectomy bra may make a big difference in how you feel about yourself. Some things to think about are as follows:
Recommendations from Your Doctor
Get in touch with your healthcare providers first. A mastectomy bra may not be worn for a certain period of time following surgery, and your doctor may prescribe a particular brand or style.
Convenience and Proper Fit
The purpose of a mastectomy bra is to safely and comfortably anchor a prosthesis in place. Because of this, appropriate sizing is essential. Band size (the number in a bra size) and cup size (the letter in a bra size) are important factors to think about while putting on bras. Both the band and the straps should fit securely without being painfully tight. There should be no looseness or bulging between the prosthesis and the cups.
Materials
Try to choose bras that aren’t going to bother your skin by using materials like cotton or silk. Avoid wearing lace or other scratchy fabrics while undergoing radiation therapy or while scars are still healing.
Closure
Choose between a front- or back-closing bra. After surgery, some women find it more convenient to use bras with front closures.
Style
You may get mastectomy bras in a wide variety of designs, from athletic to daily to sexier variations. Find an appearance that complements your personality and self-esteem.
Prosthesis
Pick a bra that can expand to fit your breast shape if you need to wear one. For this same reason, some bras have concealed compartments. It’s possible that the kind of bra that works best for you will depend on the size and form of your prosthesis.
Specialist Stores
You may get mastectomy bras of all shapes and sizes at a variety of outlets staffed by knowledgeable fitters. If you’re feeling unsure about yourself, this might be a useful tool.
Choices Abound
You could want a soft, cozy bra for resting at home, a sturdy sports bra for working out, and a fashionable evening bra to go out.
Insurance Coverage
Verify your policy’s coverage. After a mastectomy, some insurance policies may pay for a prosthesis or bra.
Keep in mind that as your body heals from surgery, your measurements may vary and the clothes that fit well one month may no longer do so the next. Getting fitted for a bra on a regular basis can help you maintain a flattering and secure fit at all times.
Alternatives to the Mastectomy Bra
prosthetic silicone breasts
Breast implants, also known as silicone breast prostheses, are artificial devices used in medicine for a variety of breast-related purposes, including but not limited to mastectomy reconstruction, breast augmentation, and the creation of a more symmetrical bust line. They may be used to restore breast volume lost to disease or damage, or to provide a more desirable cosmetic result.
bras with soft cups and a front closure
After breast surgery, you may have trouble putting on a back-closing bra or pulling it over your head because of limited shoulder movement. The adoption of a front-closing bra would be ideal in this situation. Soft-cupped, front-closing bras are ideal for providing light support and slight compression over surgical dressings.
bras and vests with compression technology
Compression bras and vests are common post-surgery recommendations. They do a great job of shielding the chest, back, and arms. Compression of wounds may also help reduce swelling caused by fluid collection. The right compression bra might help you prevent loose skin and discomfort around your wounds.
camisoles and other tops
Lightweight tops and camisoles with bra cup inserts or prostheses may help keep surgical drains in place after surgery. The use of T-shirts, nightgowns, and pajama tops with side drain pockets is also possible
Considerable Information
Getting around isn’t the only problem following surgery. It also affects the skin in the healing process. Find a bra or top that won’t bother you to wear following surgery.
Look for a bra with wide bands over the shoulders and beneath the breasts if you want it to remain in place without digging into your skin. Invest in a bra that allows you to customize the fit by adjusting the straps or the fasteners. As the wound cures, the area surrounding the incisions may become itchy. Wearing a seamless bra might help you feel more at ease, especially in sensitive areas like healing wounds.
Avoid underwiring bras whenever possible to prevent skin irritation. The material is the final and most important consideration. Hypoallergenic and breathable, bras made entirely of organic cotton won’t make you perspire or itch.
Although you may be eager to find the perfect post-mastectomy bra right away, you should wait until your body has completely healed from surgery and discuss your choices with your doctor. Consider not just how you’ll feel while you move, but also how you’ll feel when your skin recovers.
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