Post-Mastectomy Swimwear Tips

Post-Mastectomy Swimwear Tips

Thursday, 01 August 2024 17:38

After having a mastectomy and overcoming the sometimes difficult recovery process, you deserve to take time to enjoy a nice pool day, a trip to the lake, or some time at the beach. But after a mastectomy, it is common to not feel entirely like yourself. According to Brigham and Women’s Hospital, over 100,000 women in the United States have some form of mastectomy each year. 

The 100,000 women in the United States who go through this procedure should be able to enjoy a vacation like the rest of us without letting their procedure get in the way of what they wear. 

If you’ve recently had a mastectomy or are looking for some tips, you are not alone. Unfortunately, many women who have had mastectomies can feel insecure about themselves, and this should not be the case. If you’re recovering from a mastectomy or have already recovered, you should be proud that you were able to go through such a difficult process.

We’ve created this list of swimwear tips to help you feel confident and happy on your next vacation. Keep reading this blog to learn more about how to feel confident this summer!

Post-Mastectomy Swimwear Tips: How To Feel Your Best After The Operation

1. Rash Guards

Rash guards are a great option for swimwear if you’ve just had a mastectomy. A rash guard will keep your chest area protected from the sun, and also provide you with a bit more comfort and protection if you’re not ready to wear the typical swimsuit. 

There are rash guards of all colors, all patterns, and even sleeve lengths. You’ll have tons of stylish options to choose from, and you’ll also be protecting your skin from the sun.

2. Swimwear Designed For Post-Mastectomy Women

Did you know that there are many companies that produce swimwear specifically designed for women who have had mastectomies? Post-mastectomy swimwear comes with built-in padding around the chest area that will help create a natural look.  

If you’re looking into this type of swimwear, you’re in luck because there are many different styles, colors, and options to choose from. There are one-piece options, tankini options, bikini options, and more. 

You’ll be able to find them with a few quick online searches from well-known brands, or you can make an appointment with a local prosthetic company that specializes in care for women who have had mastectomies.

3. One Piece Swimsuits

If you don’t have time before your vacation to wait on special post-mastectomy swimwear, then dig through your closet to look for a one-piece. A one-piece swimsuit is a great option if you want to jump in the pool, lake, or ocean, and avoid drawing unwanted attention to your chest area. One-piece swimsuits are simple, affordable, and a great last-minute option for vacation!

4. Cover Ups

You should never feel embarrassed about having post-mastectomy scars, but if you’re struggling with your self-confidence after the operation, then a cover-up is a great idea. No matter what type of swimsuit you’re wearing underneath, if you want extra protection and comfort, go ahead and throw a coverup in your suitcase.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a poolside, lake, or beach, a coverup will help you if you’re not quite ready to show some skin on vacation, and just like rash guards, you’ll be protecting your skin from the sun!

5. Prosthetic Equipment

Many women who have had a mastectomy have opted for prosthetic equipment after their operations to feel and look like themselves. These prosthetics are quite simple. Breast forms are quite common for women to use. They are silicone pieces that are simply worn over your chest and may be put inside of a bra. Some may be weighted, but they’re all designed to make the chest look full and natural. 

There are many other options for women besides silicone breast forms, like custom-made forms that are designed specifically for each woman and her body. You can decide what is best for you, but prosthetic equipment is great if you’re able to plan ahead for your vacation and want to feel more confident. 

Practice Self Confidence and Self Love

Surviving breast cancer and having a mastectomy is a great achievement. Dealing with the loss of your breasts is not an easy task, so try to practice self-love and self-confidence during this emotionally tricky recovery process. We’ve written an article all about this subject if you want to take a look. Click this link to read more about it. 

About The Orthopedic Appliance Company in Western North Carolina

If you’ve recently had a mastectomy or are planning on having a mastectomy and live in North Carolina, it is a great idea to reach out to us to learn more about our prosthetic work. Orthopedic Appliance Company is dedicated to helping women improve their quality of life after breast surgery. Our passionate and caring fitters can assist you with all your post-mastectomy needs.  

We were established in 1960 for the purpose of providing custom-made orthopedic bracing and artificial limbs to the people of Western North Carolina.  Since 1960 our full-service orthotic, prosthetic, and rehabilitation firm has cared for people with disabilities.

We offer a wide selection of breast forms and post-mastectomy bras to complement your natural beauty, as well as post-mastectomy swimsuits. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to schedule a free consultation about your post-mastectomy needs.