A mastectomy bra is a special type of bra made for women who have had a mastectomy and need a bra for post-surgery use.
A mastectomy bra is a specifically made bra for use with breast prosthesis forms. A mastectomy bra is designed with special made pockets inside of each bra cup that hold the silicone breast forms. The pocket holds it against the body to give a natural look. A mastectomy bra can be made in similar designs as a regular bra and have either back or front hooks. They come in cotton, lace or satin.
A well-made mastectomy bra will keep the artificial breast forms firmly in place, look natural, and can be worn just like other bras. They come in all styles from a basic mastectomy bra to special sports bras for mastectomy patients. They come in designs for those who have had a mastectomy for one or both breasts.
A mastectomy bra can be purchased at retailers who sell products special made for cancer patients. To find places that sell the mastectomy bra patients should speak with their doctors or get special order catalogues. You can also get information from cancer organisations or clinics on where to buy them.
A mastectomy bra usually cost about $30 to $50 and lasts about three to six months depending on how much it is worn. The breast forms that fit inside a mastectomy bra cost about $180 to $400 for silicone ones or about $30 to $80 for those made of other materials. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of both a mastectomy bra and the inserts if they are prescribed by a doctor.
A mastectomy bra requires a special fit and you can't just wear your old bra size. A woman who has need of a mastectomy bra should be measured for the bra before leaving the hospital. It should be rechecked at least once a year, as a weight gain of only five pounds can affect the fit of a mastectomy bra. If you are wearing a mastectomy bra properly, no one should be able to tell you are doing so.
A mastectomy bra is used along with prosthetic devices to assist in recreating the normal symmetry of a woman's body to where it was before she had to undergo a mastectomy. Mastectomy bras come in a wide variety of styles, colours, fabrics and sizes.
