From compression bras to breast forms to post-mastectomy swimwear there are quite a few things to consider as you find your just-right fit. This resource will help you understand your options and find the right fit for you.
The right post-mastectomy care is the kind that helps you feel more like yourself: comfortable and confident.
And the team at Body In Motion is dedicated to helping every post-mastectomy patient we meet to do just that.
We’re experts in helping you navigate the challenges that can arise after surgery and our expertise in compression and prosthetics means you won’t have to hop from specialist to specialist to get the right garment or prosthetic that fits and feels just right.
You can contact our team at 888-272-2303 to get started today.
From compression bras to prosthetics to post-mastectomy swimwear there are quite a few things to consider as you find your just-right fit. And because breast cancer treatment can lead to issues like lymphedema it’s important to understand how compression garments and prosthetics may play a role in your life after surgery. So, to help you get clear about what’s right for you, below you’ll find some helpful information about post-mastectomy care, garments, complications, prosthetics, and some of the most trusted brands in the industry that we use here at Body In Motion.
What makes a mastectomy bra different from other bras? How long do I need to wear a compression bra after my mastectomy?
After surgery, your surgeon might prescribe that you wear a compression bra.
This special garment gives more coverage to your underarms back and chest and applying consistent compression to those areas can prevent things like swelling or fluid buildup that can happen as you recover.
How long you wear the compression bra after your mastectomy will depend on the guidance of your surgeon and treatment team. The compression bra secures the skin in place and can help prevent movement around your fresh stitches. Scar tissue prevention is key as you heal and can be vital to preventing future surgeries to address that damaged tissue down the road.
Compression bras and compression sleeves (sometimes used for the arm and underarm area after surgery) are not just glorified sports bras. They’re made of materials that are safe for sensitive skin, they’re not too heavy, and they have specially designed pockets that can hold one or two breast prosthetics.
Basic mastectomy bras are designed like full coverage bras without the underwire and the cups hold your breast prosthetics between secure layers of fabric so they don’t shift or become dislodged as you move throughout your daily life.
As with most other bras, you can choose from a front closure or back closure bra. The benefit of a front-closure mastectomy bra is that you won’t have to reach around your own back after surgery to put on or take off your bra.
You can also look for sleeper mastectomy bras for added comfort.
One key thing to note here is this: You won’t want to move from a compression bra to a typical mastectomy bra (the one that holds the breast prosthesis) unless and until your doctor has advised you to do so since your healing and comfort are the top priorities.
What’s a mastectomy prosthesis? Are there different kinds of mastectomy prosthetics?
A mastectomy prosthesis is also called a mastectomy form or breast prosthesis and, much like the name implies it is a breast form designed to mimic the shape of a breast for those who have had a mastectomy.
Silicone breast forms (also called silicone breast prostheses) and non-silicone breast forms are available.
According to Hopkins Medical, external silicone breast prostheses are weighted and made to mimic natural breast tissues. And because they’re weighted like natural breasts they can address issues with balance and posture as well.
Non-silicone breast forms are lighter weight, often foam or fiber-filled, and are often used during things like swimming or exercise since they’re a more breathable option.
At Body In Motion, we have certified fitters who are educated and experienced in helping you get the best fit for your mastectomy prosthetics. At your consultation, we’ll ensure everything fits well and feels great so you leave the office feeling even more like yourself.
Do I need a different mastectomy prosthesis when I go swimming?
You may. A mastectomy swim form or mastectomy swim prosthesis might be the right choice for you.
This lightweight form is perfect for swimming. Often made of clear silicone and ideal for leaving in the pocket of your mastectomy swimsuit, what sets these prosthetics apart is that they’re water-resistant, dry easily, and are lighter than other forms of breast prosthetics.
If you’re looking for the right mastectomy swimwear or swim form, let our team know and we’ll help you find one that’s right for you.
What is lymphedema? How can I treat or reduce lymphedema after my mastectomy?
Your surgeon may have removed lymph nodes during your mastectomy or treated certain areas with radiation in the course of your breast cancer treatment. As a result, there is a possibility that after your surgery (months or even years later) you might develop lymphedema which is a condition where the removal of lymph nodes creates an imbalance in your body’s lymph and causes swelling. Arms, genitals, belly areas, and legs are common lymphedema areas. Prevention and treatment are possible with proper care and so it’s important to know how to address this condition to prevent things like sores or infections from forming as a result of that lymph imbalance.
Good skincare, regular exercise, massage, and consistent compression (with compression sleeves or other compression garments) can lower your risk for lymphedema.
At Body In Motion, we take your post-mastectomy care seriously and, in consultation with your doctor, can design a lymphedema prevention plan that helps lower your risk for the condition.
What are lymphedema stockings and what do lymphedema stockings do?
Great lymphedema prevention and treatment starts with the right compression garment and a lymphedema stocking is often the right option for those at risk for the condition.
While your doctor and treatment team are always the best resource for information and guidance about your unique post-mastectomy care, compression garments are often a vital part of post-mastectomy care. These garments, including lymphedema stockings, help control the condition. From socks to stockings to sleeves for arms and legs, these garments provide consistent pressure and, with new or burgeoning lymphedema, this application of pressure can be the best bet for working to reverse or stop the worsening of the effects of lymphedema on the body.
In combination with treatments like lymphatic draining or decongestive therapy, compression or lymphedema stockings are the first line of defense against fluid build-up.
Plus, patients often say that compression garments relieve discomfort. This means you can be more active and that regular movement also combats fluid build-up when done consistently.
What Brands Does Body In Motion Use For Compression and Mastectomy Care?
As post-mastectomy care experts and certified prosthetic fitters, our team at Body In Motion relies on only the best garment and prosthetic companies in the industry.
Here are a few of our most-trusted and most-loved compression garment and mastectomy form brands.
Jobst is a leader in compression wear for post-mastectomy patients. Their FarrowWrap is designed to provide multilayer compression and is easy to apply on your own while giving the lymphedema-addressing, swelling-prevention you need.
Medi specializes in research-backed lymphedema solutions including compression garments and treatment devices for post-mastectomy and diabetic wound care among other conditions.
Over 150 years of research and experience goes into every compression garment at the Swiss-founded Sigvaris. A family-operated firm that leads the world in medical compression, we use Sigvaris garments and devices to treat our post-mastectomy patients and prevent or treat their lymphedema.
Juzo compression garments are designed for daily living. Freedom and active lifestyles are their passion and we can appreciate that. Juzo also offers soft materials with fun and fashionable prints. So, you don’t need to look like you’re donning a medical device when you wear them.
L&R is a globally recognized leader in compression care. They have a U.S. distribution center in Wisconsin and continue to focus on research and development of more compression solutions to treat patients recovering from mastectomy surgery
From breast forms to bras to post-surgery accessories, ABC is committed to giving every person who goes through a mastectomy the garments and devices they need.
Innovation is part of the core of what Amoena does and helping women with breast cancer is at the heart of their efforts. Amoena products are designed to promote healthy, active lifestyles and to ensure that every woman lives with greater self-confidence.
You can contact our team at 888-272-2303 to get started today.