Since 1997
A Fitting Experience Mastectomy Shoppe has been helping clients during mastectomy recovery since 1997. To assure greater safety and protection during your first post-mastectomy shower, we offer protective shower shirts. These special garments keep your surgical sites dry and protect your drains while you wash.
Why Does Careful Showering Matter After a Mastectomy?
Your incisions need protection during early recovery. Exposure to water increases the risk of infection and can irritate your healing tissue. And drains require extra care in order to stay functional and clean.
Most surgeons tell their patients to wait 24 to 48 hours before their first shower. Even then, keeping your incisions dry is critical for proper healing. The American Cancer Society warns that moisture can soften scabs and slow down tissue repair.
A protective barrier allows you to manage this challenge so you can wash your hair and body without having to worry about your surgical sites.
Showering with a Shower Shirt
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions: Most of the time, doctors tell their patients they can shower within two days of surgery. However, some women need more time, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
- Make sure your shower shirt fits properly before you step into the water: The shirt’s waterproof design only works when it’s positioned correctly over incisions and drain sites. Make sure all edges sit flush against your skin.
- Keep the temperature of your shower lukewarm: Hot water increases swelling and discomfort around surgical areas.
- Wash gently around protected areas: You can wash your arms, back, and legs normally, avoiding your torso. Your shirt will keep your wounds dry as you shower after breast surgery.
What Not to Do When Showering After a Mastectomy
- Don’t rush: Take your time and consider asking someone to stand nearby in case you feel lightheaded.
- Don’t aim water directly at the protective barrier: Excessive pressure can compromise the shirt’s seal.
- Don’t use harsh soaps or scented products: These products shouldn’t be used near surgical sites, even once you’re cleared to wash them directly. Choose mild, unscented cleansers.
- Don’t scrub incisions: Even after they’ve healed externally, the tissue underneath needs more time to strengthen.
The Benefits of Using a Shower Shirt During Recovery
Our waterproof shower shirt is designed to create a barrier against moisture so you can shower normally. The shower shirt covers multiple surgical sites at once, even in the case of bilateral surgery.
Our shower shirts make it easier to care for your drains, as the built-in pockets keep tubing safely away from water while you move around the shower.
It’s important to have someone nearby during your first showers after surgery, and shower shirts offer greater privacy. You can bathe without assistance once you’re steady on your feet.
Tips for a Safer Shower Experience
Before you get undressed, set out towels, clean clothes, and your protective shower shirt where you can reach them easily.
When in doubt, use a shower chair. Standing for too long during early recovery puts you at greater risk for fatigue and falling. If you don’t have them already, install grab bars to provide stability as you regain your strength.
Keep your showers short. Five to ten minutes is enough time to wash up. The National Cancer Institute recommends listening to your body and resting when needed during recovery.
Have someone double-check the seal of your shower shirt before you get in the water. They might catch gaps you missed.
Consider putting on a post-surgical bra designed for comfort after you dry off. Proper support aids healing and reduces discomfort.
We offer shower shirts that are specifically designed for the unique needs of post-mastectomy shower routines. Our team can show you how to position them properly and answer questions about sizing.
Your Comfort Matters
Our team of certified fitters will help you find protective solutions that work for your specific surgery and recovery needs. The right protective shower shirt lets you shower safely and comfortably during your mastectomy recovery.
Schedule your personalized fitting now. We’ll walk you through our product options, help with sizing, and process insurance paperwork. Book an appointment at our Margate location or choose a virtual session from home. Contact us to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I shower after a mastectomy?
Most surgeons tell women to wait 24 to 48 hours after surgery to shower. However, the exact timing varies based on your procedure. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions.
How do shower shirts help after breast surgery?
Shower shirts create a waterproof barrier over your incisions and drains while you bathe. They fasten securely around your torso to keep your surgical sites completely dry while you wash your hair and body.
Can I use soap or body wash while wearing a shower shirt?
Yes, you can use soap and body wash on all areas of your body that aren’t covered by your protective shower shirt. Once your surgeon says it’s okay to wash the incision area, you can transition to the gentle cleansing of surgical sites.
How do I protect my incision while showering?
Use a waterproof post-surgery shirt designed for care during recovery, ensuring a proper fit and seal before you come in contact with water. Keep your showers short and use lukewarm water.
Can I shower alone after a mastectomy, or do I need help?
Many patients can shower independently once they feel steady, typically after the first few attempts. However, having someone nearby during early showers is a good idea in case you feel weak or dizzy.