Frequently Asked Questions

Pre- and Post-Breast Surgery

What are my options after breast surgery? You have three alternatives: wearing an external breast form, external breast reconstruction, or surgical breast reconstruction.

What can I wear after breast surgery? The Women’s Health Boutique offers soft cotton undergarments. The garments contain no metal hooks or elastic bands and the fiber-filled pockets offer you a more natural look.

What is a breast form? A breast form is a breast prosthesis worn inside a bra to closely simulate the natural contours of your own breast.  Forms are made from silicone, foam or fiberfill.

Why is a weighted form necessary? The form will balance the weight of the remaining breast and help you avoid shoulder, neck and back pain.

Why do I need to be custom-fitted for a breast form? There are hundreds of shapes and sizes of breast forms available.  Every woman, every surgery and every breast are different, so the fitting is very individualized. Our certified mastectomy fitters are specially trained to help you find just the right form.

What do I wear when I swim? Mastectomy swimsuits have pockets to hold the breast forms. Foam and silicone swim forms are designed to be worn in the hot tub, pool or ocean.

After breast surgery am I at risk for lymphedema? You may be at risk if lymph node dissection or radiation is involved. It is important that you talk with your physician about lymphedema prevention, detection and treatment.