Surgery to remove breast tissue tends to change the way a woman looks. Many women become self-conscious about how they look after the surgery. With this self-consciousness, post-mastectomy patients may be a little wary of the summer and its activities, mainly because it is swim suit season. You do not have to worry about looking awkward with mastectomy swimwear. This specially designed swimming apparel is available for post-operative women, including those who have had partial or full tissue removal.
Finding a store that sells clothing for post-mastectomy women is the first step. For people who are unfamiliar with shopping for this kind of new clothing, it helps to talk to other people. Doctors can be a good referral source. Other women who have been through the same experience can also be a good source. Look for stores that have staff that know what they are talking about and what your specific needs are. You want the salesperson to be friendly, helpful, compassionate, and especially honest. They should give you an honest, professional opinion about the bathing suit and how it works with your prosthetic breast form.
It is also a good idea to consider the extent of the procedure when choosing a suit. Full mastectomies have larger and longer scars than a lumpectomy. The top portion of the suit can have higher cut arm holes. They can also have a neck line that does not scoop down or plunge, but instead resembles a sports bra. Both one pieces and two pieces can be found with this altering.
Molded cups and pockets can also be found in bathing suit tops. The molded cups are ideal for creating symmetry and an even look when you have had a lumpectomy. Pockets provide a place for prosthetic pads or forms. Check the pockets to make sure there is a method to close them securely and keep the forms in place during an active swim.
While shopping for suits, there are many different options available with styles. You can find the same styles in post-mastectomy suits that are in regular ones. Style does not have to be substituted just because you need a special suit. One piece, tank style, boy short, and bikini suits can be found. You can even choose to mix and match bottoms to fit your tastes.
Buying a bathing suit, under normal circumstances, is about considering body shape. The same is true with these special swim suits. They can provide shaping in problem areas such as the butt and stomach. Skirted styles flatter full-figured shapes. Regardless of the body shape, a broad range of prints and colors are available.
Always check to make sure the bathing suit fits your properly. If you use pads or forms, you should include them in the fitting as well, particularly if the forms you use every day are different than the ones you need to use for swimming. Not all prosthetic breasts are shaped the same nor do they weight the same. In order to ensure your suit fits correctly, you need to try it on with the forms you will use.
Undergoing breast surgery is difficult enough. Women do not have to worry about what they will look like in a swim suit. Mastectomy swimwear helps women continue on with their lives. Family time and summer activities do not have to be avoided because of surgery.
