How to Shop for Mastectomy Clothing

Picking out clothes is difficult enough without having mastectomy needs affect the final decision. Knowing what to look for and where to shop for mastectomy clothing eliminates a lot of the frustration you may feel. Feel confident and beautiful when buying a new top, swimsuit and other upper body fashion items. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Look for brand names like American Boutique, Jodee and Classique when purchasing mastectomy bras. See the eHow titled "How to Shop for Mastectomy Bras" for more information.
2. Ask other breast cancer survivors where they shop for their favorite post-surgery clothing items.
3. Check out a Lands End catalog or shop at one of their stores which carry a line of mastectomy swimwear in stylish designs.
4. Shop online at any of the specialty boutiques listed after searching with keywords "mastectomy" and "clothing" or use the specific clothing name like "bra" or "top."
5. Buy plunging necklines if comfortable with the idea. Otherwise, expect most mastectomy tops with higher cuts in the chest and underarm areas.
6. Purchase good breast form inserts and look great in any form fitting mastectomy top, such as camisoles, halter-tops or lingerie. Feeling confident about the way new breast forms feel and look is a great way to improve self-image and feel sexy, too.
7. Stay in your comfort zone regarding style and design of mastectomy tops. If you are not ready to show scars or take risks, do not risk buying an expensive low cut designer swimsuit and never wearing it.
8. Keep your existing wardrobe by having favorite blouses and dresses altered by a professional tailor to add breast form pockets.
9. Visit any women's department store for stylish outerwear without special mastectomy modifications. You can buy cute jackets, shawls or exotic cover-ups that allow one to dress daring while camouflaging scars or inserts.
10. Go with breast inserts and forms that work for you. They come in a variety of sizes, weights, colors and options (with or without nipple, color or no color) that work for most mastectomy needs.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose under wire bras with small wires so as not to injure numb breast areas with wire ends.
• Look for breast implant materials with a non-slipping matte finish instead of glossy. The matte material stays in place better with minimal slippage.
• Make sure the breast forms are safe in chlorinated or salt water before buying to use in a swimsuit.