Tips for Selecting the Perfect Breast Form Online for Comfort and Confidence
Dec 23rd, 2024
Selecting a breast form after a mastectomy is a personal and emotional decision that requires thoughtful attention. You may consider looking for mastectomy breast forms online from an online retailer or local options. This guide will confidently walk you through the selection buying process and explain the critical factors to consider, like size, materials to choose, etc.
Understanding Your Breast Form Options
The prosthetic breast form industry has advanced significantly to meet more needs and preferences. Today's market includes lightweight silicone, comfortable foam breast forms, and innovative adhesive options. Each type of breast form has a different advantage, allowing you to select the best option according to your needs and lifestyle.
Different Materials and Their Benefits
Silicone breast forms are still the most common option, providing a natural sense and movement as close as possible to that of the actual physical breast tissue. They are provided in different weights (ultralight to standard weight), allowing you to obtain the closest to a natural feeling. Alternatively, foam breast forms provide a lighter option for immediate after-surgery or leisure activities.
What About Sizing and Symmetry?
Accurate size selection is most important when choosing breast prostheses for mastectomy to realize natural symmetry. Professional fitters suggest measuring the chest wall and the remaining breast (if trained) to guarantee adequate fit. Most makers supply specifications. However, the following are crucial measurements to take into account:
- Chest wall circumference at the fullest point
- Width of chest wall on the mastectomy side
- Cup size is desired based on body size and personal aesthetic
Where to Find Quality Mastectomy Breast Forms Online
There is a wide variety of options in the digital marketplace for buying breast forms; however, select reliable suppliers for the best quality. Many women begin by searching for "mastectomy bra near me" to discover local fitters who can give initial measurements and education before making online purchases.
Trusted Online Retailers
Leading medical supply companies and specialized mastectomy boutiques maintain comprehensive online catalogs of breast form options for mastectomy patients. The same type of retailer usually offers product descriptions, size charts, and customer response services to facilitate the selection.
Insurance Considerations
Before you make that purchase, check with your insurance company to see if prosthetic breast forms are covered. Most providers typically cover custom-fitted forms every two years, increasing the availability of quality products. Ensure you hold records of your mastectomy and breast prosthesis prescription to assist in insurance billing.
Ensuring Proper Fit and Comfort
The comfort of the mastectomy breast forms is its best conformation with your body shape and personal requirements. Consider these essential factors during selection:
Weight Distribution
Breast form weight significantly impacts daily comfort. Although heavier designs allow for more natural motion, prolonged use can lead to shoulder fatigue. Today's airy, lightweight solutions provide a great-looking, physical (weight) reducing alternative.
Activity Level Consideration
Your lifestyle should guide your breast form selection. If you're active, consider lightweight foam breast forms for exercise and swimming-specific forms for water activities. Some women keep several breast shapes for different occasions, making them convenient for any activity.
Temperature Management
Silicone breast forms can cause a sensation of warmth on the skin, even in warm weather. Check for temperature-modifying properties or cooling technology if you live in a warm climate or suffer from thermoregulation challenges.
Making Your Final Selection
For breast form selection following a mastectomy, use the temporary foam type first. Then, you need to purchase a long-term silicone form immediately. This way, you can heal your surgical site while experimenting with weight, shape, and adhesion techniques.
Testing and Adjustment Period
Many suppliers offer trial periods for breast form fitting and sizing. Make the most of these opportunities and choose the one that suits your purposes. Pay attention to:
- How the form feels during different activities
- Whether the weight feels comfortable throughout the day
- If the attachment method suits your lifestyle
- Their appearance under various types of clothing
Care and Maintenance
Good maintenance prolongs the lifespan of your breast form and keeps it looking its best. Each material requires specific care, but generally:
- Clean forms daily with gentle soap and water
- Store in the provided case when not in use
- Avoid extreme temperature
- Obtain replacement forms as the manufacturer directs, e.g., every two years.
Final Remarks
The right breast form can significantly impact your confidence and comfort daily. Spend some time thinking about what options you want for breast forms for patients with mastectomy because, eventually, you may come to the decision that your choice won't be set in stone as you adjust to a new reality.
Many women say they feel better and more at ease ONLY after they have met their ideal person. Work with experienced fitters, take advantage of resources available through cancer support groups, and prioritize your comfort and confidence in this important decision.