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| What you should know . . . | |
| You have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Some things to consider before your surgery: There are many ways to restore your appearance and renew your self-confidence following breast surgery. The decisions you make are very personal. Although you should consult with your physician, the final choice is up to you. It is a good idea to learn about all of your options before your surgery. Your physician can discuss the various post-breast surgery products and reconstruction possibilities. It can be helpful to contact a local breast cancer organization and ask to speak with someone who has been through a similar procedure. Although every experience is unique, talking to someone may help with your expectations. Realistic expectations will lower anxiety and facilitate healing. Questions for your physician before surgery: · What type of procedure am I having? · How long is my hospital stay? · How long will I be in surgery? · Will I be put to sleep for this procedure? · How much pain will I be in and will I receive pain medication? · What will the surgical site look like? · Will there be a drain? · When will I get the pathology report? · Are there medications or dietary supplements that I should stop taking prior to surgery? · Do I need to bring a post-surgery camisole to wear home or will one be provided? · When can I get my post-breast surgery products? · Am I a candidate for reconstructive surgery? The Profile Shop is a unique specialty shop featuring lingerie, swimwear and a complete post-breast surgery department. Our service is very specific to your needs, and our main goal is to make your visit as personal and pleasant as possible. After breast surgery there has been a physical change, but you are still there with the same wants, desires and needs. You want to look and feel like the woman you always were and still are. It is our goal to restore a positive image and to renew your confidence and self-esteem. We have worked with thousands of women with specialized fitting needs. These needs include mastectomy, lumpectomy, reconstruction and breast anomalies. Our commitment has always been to have the best products and to provide the best fit through personalized services. Our relationship with customers is characterized by sensitivity and trust – one reason customers often recommend us to their friends. We care about your comfort and invite you to visit or call if we can answer any question. After Surgery: It is important to have an open and honest relationship with your physician. Your doctor is not a mind-reader! If you have pain or discomfort, the only way they know is if you tell them. Some other points to cover with your physician after surgery: · How soon after my discharge will I have a follow-up appointment? · What are some of the signs/symptoms I should watch for that would signal a problem? · Are there any restrictions on my activities? · Will I need physical therapy to regain full range of motion in my upper body? Comfort After Surgery: Make sure that the bras and camisoles you wear after surgery have been designed with your needs in mind. In most cases, these will be covered by your insurance. You will need a prescription from your doctor if you would like to have a claim filed for these products. Whether you undergo mastectomy, lumpectomy, or reconstruction, you can wear a camisole immediately following surgery. Most insurance companies will cover two camisoles. Your doctor will tell you when you can be fitted for a silicone prosthesis – usually 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. There are many types of silicone prostheses that can be used depending on the type of surgery and other medical issues. Most insurance companies cover 1 prosthesis every 2 years and 4 to 6 bras every year. A prescription is always needed for these products. Shapers for after a lumpectomy or reconstruction: After breast-conserving surgery or reconstruction, a shaper – or partial breast form – can even out your figure just where you need it. These partial forms can fit into a regular bra or a pocketed bra to balance uneven breasts, or to soften or contour implants. There are also silicone nipples that can help you maintain symmetry during the tissue expansion process. Breast prostheses after mastectomy: A breast prosthesis – also called a breast form – is worn externally to closely simulate the look and feel of a natural breast. It helps to restore a woman’s profile. Most breast forms are made of silicone, although some leisure forms are made of foam. Traditional breast forms are worn in pocketed bras. Attachable breast forms adhere directly to the chest wall and do not require a special bra. Lightweight breast forms offer options to women who have other medical needs and conditions, such as lymphedema, osteoporosis or arthritis. What is involved in the fitting process: In a totally private consultation, a trained, certified fitter will discuss and display the products available for you. A properly-fitted bra is the single most important feature in fitting a breast form. This fitting will last approximately an hour. This time is important because it ensures that you are getting the best fitting possible, and allows time to answer any question you may have. Since every breast surgery is different, each fitting is unique. With a proper fitting, no one will know you are wearing a prosthesis unless you choose to tell them that you have had breast surgery. Insurance Coverage: Medicare, as well as most Managed Care Organizations and private insurers, offers some coverage for breast forms, pocketed bras and camisoles. We encourage you to call your insurer before your surgery to check on your coverage. If you are unsure about your coverage we would be happy to help you find out what your policy covers. | |