Since 1997
Nothing beats heading to the seashore or the pool in scorching hot weather. The first time out, we all feel a little insecure unveiling our beach bodies for another season. Finding the right swim prosthesis can be even more of a challenge if you’ve recently undergone a mastectomy.
Don’t let your mastectomy get in the way of a beautiful day at the pool or beach. Swimming is an excellent way to speed your recovery and helps you exercise without too much strain.
If you’ve recently had a procedure and are looking for mastectomy swimwear, here are some things to consider.
1. Choose the Best Material
Many women who have undergone a mastectomy have turned down reconstructive surgery, and instead opt for the right breast form to gain a more natural silhouette and feel comfortable.
Most hospitals and medical personnel strongly recommend a foam breast prosthesis directly after surgery, as it is the most forgiving material for your sensitive skin.
2. Double Check the Type of Water
Foam breast forms are designed to be lightweight and quick-to-dry for swimmers. They don’t absorb water enough to weigh you down and are great for post-surgery swims.
Foam forms are fine to use in both chlorinated and saltwater, so they can go to the beach and the pool and back again without a problem. Some forms come with cotton covering for easy placement. You should wash them at the end of each day.
3. Pick Forms to Withstand Wear
Swimming in chlorine and ocean water is tough on fabrics. If you’re an avid swimmer and want to get back to it after your procedure, opt for foam swim forms as they are some of the most resilient types of breast prostheses.
Choose foam forms that can sit inside pocketed swimwear as they will not rub directly against the chest wall and do not require adhesives which can wear down quickly.
4. Match Your Breast Forms
If you have a swimsuit with pockets in the torso to hold breast forms, give some thought to what size, color, and shape you want your breast form to come in. Some forms are more concave to allow for water flow, while others sit flush against your chest wall.
Almost all foam swim forms are sold singly, like the Trulife 630 Aquaflow swim form, so if you have had a partial breast removal, you can match your form to the breast shape of your remaining breast tissue.
5. Pick the Right Swimsuit
Once you’ve determined the size, color, and type of foam swim form you want to wear, look closely at your swimsuit. A mastectomy swimsuit should have pockets in the front to let you slip in your foam swim form.
If you have scars that you feel uncomfortable showing, find a swimsuit that provides extra coverage. For some women, this means choosing a swimsuit with a high neck or a tankini that covers your midriff if you are sensitive about areas lower down.
If you’re looking into a bikini, although foam prostheses are lightweight, make sure the suit has full cup coverage and a wide underband beneath the cups to give you optimal support.
6. Choose Adjustable Straps
One of the most crucial details in post-surgery clothing, sleepwear, undergarments, and swimwear is to choose something with adjustable straps. Healing is a long process, and your body will change over it.
The type of form is entirely up to you, but having straps that can adjust to different breast forms or situations is critical. Ensure the swimsuit you plan on using with your foam swim forms has adjustable straps for versatility and comfort.
7. Match Your Forms to Your Body
Directly after a mastectomy or a breast-conserving surgery, foam breast forms are the softest and least irritating prostheses. Some months down the road, you may find that you prefer the lightweight ease of the foam forms over the more weighty silicone forms.
Some breast cancer survivors prefer forms that match their original breasts as closely as possible. It is all about preference and what makes you feel the most comfortable in your skin.
8. Pick Molded Cups
Many bathing suit tops have molded cups, which are ideal for creating a smooth silhouette. Often the material of these types of bathing suits is thick, smoothing down a nipple on an existing breast and providing symmetry.
9. Opt for Cute Details
Have fun with your new bathing suit by choosing vibrant patterns or suits with cute back details.
Bold florals or flashy patterns look great in swimsuits because there’s not enough fabric to overwhelm the eye. Additionally, a strappy back design or a suit with a low-cut back offers the same support as a high-necked one-piece.
10. Choose the Best-Feeling Option
The best form for you will be the one that you’re most comfortable in, and that may mean no forms at all.
If you feel easiest in foam breast forms and a tankini, then you should opt for that one. If a high-necked swimsuit with a bold floral print is the most agreeable, then that should be your choice.
Final Thoughts
Swimming is a wonderful way to speed up your recovery and rejoin the social world by meeting up with family and friends at the beach or the pool. When you’re headed to the beach or poolside, the last thing you want to worry about is your breast forms.
With foam breast forms, which are lightweight, quick-drying, and adaptable, and the right suit, you’ll be enjoying the water in no time.
At A Fitting Experience Mastectomy Shoppe, we understand the specific expectations of our clientele. We offer a wide range of swim forms and swimsuits for your post-operative needs. Call us today at (954)-978-8287 to meet with a certified fitter and begin your healing process.