Body Care Boutique Inc.

Mastectomy

Mastectomy information

Mastectomy "softees", bras, breast prosthesis, swimwear, gowns, pulleys, lymphedema sleeves, and items for men with breast cancer. I carry it all!

Choose from brands such as Camp/Trulife, Amoena, Jodee, Ladies First, Jobst, and Melinda G.  I am certified to fit you perfectly, regardless of the type of surgery.

• Bra sizes range from 32AA up to 48 Double i      
• Colors range from white, cream, beige, and black depending on style
• Compression garments for men with post-surgery needs

Pre-surgery
Before surgery you might want to get a "Softee" to wear home, and for the few weeks until your surgeon says it is ok to be fitted for a bra.  This is a camisole-type garment with a pocket for a very light fiber-filled form.  One type even comes with a pouch for the small drainage tube bottle, which is very convenient!  This garment helps you feel comfortable around others until you are ready for a regular bra.  (Please do not attempt to be fitted for a bra or prosthesis until all swelling has gone down, and you are released from your doctor to do so.  The swelling and/or tenderness will keep you from getting the right fit to balance with your remaining breast.) 

Prior to, or just after surgery, you should contact "Reach To Recovery" which can be found through the American Cancer Society (see below).  This is a volunteer group of ladies that have been through this and one will come to you for support.  They can set up a time for a short visit after your surgery.

Post-surgery
After surgery, it is important to get your range of motion back in your arm.  I carry a quality pulley system that fits snuggly over the top of a door.  It has two wide handles that help you grip the rope.  As long as you do the exercises the doctor tells you about, your range of motion should return completely!

Some ladies, who tend to sleep on one side or another, find that the missing breast makes this feel uncomfortable.  I have found nightgowns that have pockets in them to help with this.  I suggest using a leisure form at night.

Some men need a compression garment after surgery to help with discomfort.

Once you are ready for a bra and prosthesis fitting, call for a private appointment.  Being a breast cancer survivor myself, I have "been there, done that"!   I am only open by appointment since I want to give you undivided attention to ensure a perfect fit.  First, the bra is fitted to make sure the remaining breast is supported correctly.  (I do not carry underwire bras due to the damage they can do to breast tissue.)  Then, the prosthesis is carefully fitted to balance with the remaining breast.

Swimwear
When you are ready to hit the pool, come try the line of pocketed swimwear I have available!  You can either wear your regular prosthesis in these pockets, or buy a "swimform".  Since the prosthesis is made of silicone, it can be worn in the ocean or chlorinated pools, but it is not recommended for a hot tub.  The swimform can be worn in all types of water.

Other items
I have even found several garments that have pockets so you can go without your bra!  These include both long and short slips, and sport tops for workout time.

Lymphedema
To prevent arm swelling, or lymphedema, after surgery, be sure to follow your doctor's directions regarding the protection of the arm.  Avoid using the arm for blood pressure cuffs, injections, tight clothing, or jewelry.  Protect it from injury, such as small cuts or insect bites.  Some doctors even warn about cabin pressure during airline flights.  In case of a diagnosis of lymphedema, I am certified to fit you for an arm sleeve.  Please be sure to have a prescription.  For those ladies receiving radiation, I also have the non-metallic deordorant from Alraspecifically formulated without the use of metallic salts or aluminum. 

Contact

Please call 972-567-2155 for any questions or to set up your private appointment for the above garments.  I'll be glad to personally assist you! 

Facebook page name - Body Care Boutique, Inc.

American Cancer Society Links
Mammograms and other Breast Imaging Procedures
Learn About Breast Cancer
Reach to Recovery

Breast Cancer in Men Links
American Cancer Society - Breast Cancer in Men 
Susan G. Komen - Breast Cancer in Men
National Breast Cancer Foundation - Male Breast Cancer