Shopping for swimwear can be a discouraging experience for any woman. Those who have gone through breast cancer surgery have an especially unique set of considerations.
Swimming is a great way to get active again following surgery, and it is often gentle enough to begin shortly after your recommended recovery time. If you or a loved one is in the market for post-mastectomy swimwear, knowing what to look for can remove some of the stress from the process of finding the perfect bathing suit.
What is a Mastectomy Swimsuit?
A mastectomy swimsuit is designed specifically for women who have undergone a mastectomy or other form of breast cancer surgery. A mastectomy swimsuit should feature wide and adjustable straps for maximum comfort depending on how much support you need each day.
Higher necklines and armholes provide extra coverage and protection for sensitive areas and scar tissue. Many women will want their suit to provide slimming features such as tummy control panels or ruching. Black and solid color suits can help with this as well.
Another highlight of mastectomy swimsuits should be built-in pockets for women who choose to wear a breast prosthesis. The pockets hold the prostheses securely in place so you donโt have to worry about them moving around or slipping out.
The Jodee Mastectomy Swimdress is simple yet accommodating and provides extra coverage for women who may feel a bit self-conscious adjusting to their post-surgery body.
Swimwear and Breast Forms
Another post-mastectomy product that can help women to regain confidence in their body following surgery are breast forms and swim breast forms. Breast forms are designed to emulate that shape and feel of the natural breast without an invasive surgical procedure.
While regular breast forms and swim breast forms are similar in nature. Many standard breast forms are not designed to withstand chlorine and saltwater, making it ideal to own regular breast forms and forms designed for swimming.
Swim forms are often designed with lightweight silicone in a waterproof casing. ABC Swim Forms are safe to use in swimming pools, saltwater, spas, and hot tubs while maintaining their shape for comfort and confidence.
The Perfect Fit
When shopping for a post-mastectomy swimsuit, trying on is an important step in the process. In addition, working with a board-certified mastectomy fitter can ensure that you find a suit that not only fits perfectly but provides you with comfort and support throughout your healing process as well.
Certified fitters are trained professionals and can help you to navigate the process of finding products for your post-surgery body. They take accurate measurements of your bust and band size, in addition to assessing your surgical site for sensitivities.
They will also ask questions about your lifestyle and style preferences. This enables them to make recommendations for suits and breast forms that will most closely suit your needs.
Final Thoughts
Although breast cancer and breast cancer surgery are serious and life-changing events, we are proud to provide post-mastectomy products and services that help women to regain their life afterward.
We hope to make your swimwear shopping experience enjoyable and rewarding and we are confident that there is something in our inventory for every woman. Please contact us with any questions or concerns you might have.