Some women undergo breast reconstruction surgeries for a lot of reasons, including breast cancer. However, for a lot of women, the very idea of reconstructive surgery after breast cancer can be overwhelming. If you, or someone you know has recently decided against breast reconstructive surgery, wearing breast prostheses as a way to restore your feminine physique can be a good option. Mastectomy bras were created with breast prosthesis wearers in mind. These bras help aid one’s mastectomy recovery process in the best way possible.
What is a mastectomy?
Mastectomy refers to surgery that removes one or both of the breasts. It is usually done on breast cancer patients.
A mastectomy might be done in the following situations:
1. When a woman cannot be treated with lumpectomy, a surgery that saves most of the breast,
2. If a patient decides to get a mastectomy instead of breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) for some reason.
3. When a woman is at high risk of getting breast cancer for the second time, especially those who choose to have a double mastectomy,
Who can get a mastectomy?
A lot of women who suffer from early-stage cancers can choose between breast-conserving surgery (BCS) or mastectomy. Some women prefer mastectomy as a way to “remove” all the cancer as quickly as possible. However, it should be noted that there is no guarantee that mastectomy to give you a better chance of long-term survival compared to BCS. Studies done on thousands of women of over 20 years of age how that when BCS is done together with radiation, the result is the same as having a mastectomy.
1. A mastectomy might work for you if:
2. You are unable to get radiation therapy
3. You prefer a more extensive form of surgery instead of radiation therapy
4. You have had your breasts treated with radiation therapy in the past
5. You have had the BCS with re-excisions that did not completely get rid of or remove the cancer
6. You have two or more areas of cancer in different quadrants of the same breast (multicentric) that aren’t close enough to be removed together without affecting the appearance of the breast too much
7. You have a tumor that’s bigger or larger than 5cm (or two inches) across, or a tumor that’s as large as your breast size
8. You are pregnant and require radiation therapy during your pregnancy (risking harm to the fetus)
9. You have a genetic factor such as a BRCA mutation, which increases the chances of you having a second cancer
10. Have a severe connective tissue disease like lupus or scleroderma, which may make you quite sensitive to the side effects of radiation therapy
11. You have inflammatory breast cancer
What are mastectomy bras?
A mastectomy bra is a special kind of bra that was created or designed for women who have undergone a mastectomy or any form of breast cancer surgery. These bras are usually designed with wider straps and bands compared to the average bra. This is to provide extra support and comfort to the sensitive areas of the breast after surgery or radiation therapy.
Mastectomy bras are also made with built-in pockets in the cups in support of women who wear breast prostheses. With the cups, you no longer have to worry about your breasts sliding or moving around. They also make it easy for you to remove for cleaning and care.
A mastectomy bra is the ideal bra to use to help you in your healing process. They are available in different styles and colors and are usually seamless and non-wire. These bras provide users with the comfort and protection they need to recover well.
Benefits of Using a Mastectomy Bra
After undergoing breast surgery, such as mastectomy or lumpectomy, for cancer, most women will require extra support and comfort as possible. And for good reason. It is highly recommended that you start shopping for a mastectomy bra before your surgery. This way, you’re prepared for rest and recovery in the days after your surgery.
Below are some of the notable features of a post-surgical mastectomy bra:
1. Front closures and clasps
These are important during the recovery period as they help minimize the stretching and maneuvering that can irritate the skin around the surgical site and intensify pain with the scars.
2. Seamless fabrics and materials
A seamless mastectomy bra is necessary if you are to consider absolute comfort. The kin around the surgical site and breast/chest area will be very sensitive, especially if you have undergone chemotherapy or radiation therapy. You’ll feel a lot better when you use a bra made of soft, seamless fabric.
3. Comfortable straps and bands
While you heal from your mastectomy or breast reconstruction surgery, you need to treat or handle scars and sensitive skin with care. Mastectomy bras come with wider straps and bands that help minimize friction and pulling at any areas with increased sensitivity.
Other Things to Consider
If you are still undecided on whether you should purchase and wear a mastectomy bra, it is important that you speak with your insurance company first. This way you can discuss any reimbursements they are able to offer for post-mastectomy products. Your insurance plan may cover some, if not all, of the cost a mastectomy bra and mastectomy prostheses too.
If you have second thoughts or reservations about wearing breast prostheses, you might change your mind if you know that they can help restore balance and symmetry to your body. In addition, they help prevent chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain. But we understand that this is a personal choice that every woman must make by themselves, and for some women, going flat is the way to go.
Post-surgery bras also help in expediting your recovery process by stabilizing your chest and making sure it’s clean and free from infection. If you remain unsure about what the best course of action is, consult with your doctor.
Conclusion
Mastectomy bras a necessary product that can help you in your recovery. If you are considering buying a mastectomy bra, make sure you do your research and consult with your doctor on any brands they recommend.
