Mastectomy is a curative procedure for breast cancer that involves partial or complete removal of breast tissue. Most recovering mastectomy patients have a hard time adjusting to the normal way of living due to image problems.
As such, there is a need for an effective solution that provides the recovering mastectomy patient with both coverage and comfort. One of the most common coverage solutions most recovering mastectomy patients opt for is wearing breast forms. Ideally, mastectomy breast forms come in different forms and types, such as silicone gel breast forms.
Nonetheless, getting the perfect breast form match is a challenge most patients face due to inadequate information or access. Getting a perfect breast form fit requires one to look for an experienced breast form fitter to help them match their needs to the appropriate breast form.
A proper mastectomy breast form fit is an indispensable part of the recovery journey. In this article, we will discuss the importance of fitting a mastectomy breast form properly.
Mobility and Comfort
A well-fitted mastectomy breast form offers a recovering patient sufficient comfort and mobility. After a mastectomy, a patient needs ample time for the scar to heal. As such, the patient requires sufficient drainage to reduce the chances of infection and swelling.
Once the scar is fully recovered, a properly-fitted mastectomy breast form is essential for coverage and reducing sensitivity. In essence, a well-fitted breast form sits well against the chest wall and gives the patient the chance to wear a supportive mastectomy bra all day long.
An ill-fitted mastectomy breast form may prove to be a burden for the recovering patient since the breast prostheses may cause pain on the scar. Additionally, a poorly fitted breast form may cause strain on the back and shoulders.
Consequently, the recovering patient may experience significant difficulty exercising or handling regular day-to-day tasks.
Symmetry and Balance
Breast forms that are fitted properly by an experienced breast form fitter provide body balance for women who have undergone a unilateral mastectomy (removal of one breast). Although it is easier to wear a breast form one or two sizes up after a bilateral mastectomy, mismatching one breast form can create significant symmetry problems.
Resultantly, asymmetrical breast forms may lead to posture disfigurement, self-consciousness, and discomfort.
Nevertheless, it is best to consult a professional breast form fitter when you are looking for mastectomy breast forms to avoid getting mismatched breast prostheses.
Natural Appearance
One of the most challenging tasks post-mastectomy is restoring a natural silhouette that is seamless and flawless. Essentially, the primary reason for getting a mastectomy breast form is to reinstate a naturally-looking feminine image.
Hence, a properly fitted breast form ensures that the woman maintains a smooth silhouette when wearing different attires. As a result, the recovering patient is able to wear fitting tops, dresses, and swimming garments. Additionally, properly fitted breast prostheses blend effortlessly with the woman’s body. Thus, the woman can worry less and focus more on regaining her confidence in different social settings.
Support for a Wide Variety of Clothes
Part of the recovery journey post-mastectomy includes the ability to wear regular clothes, such as backless dresses and ordinary exercise attires. As such, properly fitted mastectomy breast forms can easily be worn under a different mastectomy bras, such as a strapless mastectomy bra.
On the contrary, breast prostheses that are not properly fitted can cause bulge imprints on the frontal chest area. Additionally, the breast form may require adjustments that may be very shaming and uncomfortable for the recovering mastectomy patient.
For such reasons, a properly fitted breast form is essential to ensure that clothes drape naturally and allow the woman to experiment with different types of clothes and fashion styles.
Breast Form Longevity
The main cause of wear and tear in a breast form is excess pressure due to strain. Wearing an improperly fitted bra will create strain on the surface of the breast form and induce premature wear and tear.
Conclusion
Breast form fitters are familiar with common problems most recovering patients face when getting breast prostheses. As such, any breast form fitter will recommend tailored solutions for your unique coverage needs, such as getting a custom breast form.
