Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The American Cancer Society indicates that there are more than 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. Many of these survivors may undergo mastectomy of one or both breasts which involves the surgical removal of the breast tissue.

Carmichael’s locations have post-mastectomy protheses and bras available for women who are unable to have breast reconstruction. A prosthesis, also called a breast form, can help you achieve a balanced breast shape without surgery. The prosthesis can be inserted into loungewear, nightwear, swimwear, and sportswear.

 

What types of breast forms are available?

Breast forms come in adhesive full, partial, and shell options. They fit into special bra or camisole pockets or stick directly to the breast area. They can feature an artificial nipple or a special asymmetrical, symmetrical, or custom shape. Breast prostheses are made from several different types of materials such as fiberfill or silicone.

A fiberfill or foam prosthesis is recommended when you are recovering from surgery because it is the most comfortable type. It can be machine washed and worn during warm weather and swimming. A silicone prosthesis may feel more natural and look more realistic for everyday wear. This type of prosthesis helps keep the shoulders even and supports posture. A silicone prosthesis is hand-washable only and is not suitable for wear in water.

Carmichael’s offers several brands of breast prostheses and bras. The Anita brand is a line of full and partial breast protheses, and fashionable post-surgery bras that we offer. These breast prostheses and cups are made of silicone and polyurethane, natural elements that are skin-compatible. They provide comfort and are similar in softness and weight to natural breasts.

 

Carmichael’s locations also carry the Jodee brand of comfortable post-mastectomy bras and breast forms in a variety of colors, fabrics, and styles. Whether you have had a single or double mastectomy, Jodee’s post-mastectomy foam and silicone breast forms help restore the natural, realistic look of one or both breasts. Jodee’s breathable, lightweight special bras provide superior balance and comfort with a sewn-in breast form and a weighted core.

 

Trulife is another brand of innovative mastectomy products that we offer at Carmichael’s locations. Trulife is a leader in crafting handmade, realistic custom breast prostheses, which are unique to a woman’s profile and skin tone. These protheses offer an enhanced softness to match natural breast tissue and provide enough balance to make a woman feel more comfortable and feminine after a mastectomy.

Keep in mind that a silicone breast form should be replaced every 2-5 years. However, the amount of time that a breast prothesis lasts depends on how it is worn and cared for. The manufacturer may offer a warranty for the product. You also may qualify for a replacement if the original one does not last during the life of the warranty.

 

What does insurance cover after mastectomy?

It is important to check with your insurance provider before making a breast prothesis or post-mastectomy bra purchase. An insurance company may pay for most of, or the entire cost of a standard prosthesis and have an allowance for mastectomy bras. Some people with insurance may receive a reimbursement for their prosthesis. If you have Medicare Part B medical insurance, it covers some external breast prostheses (including a post-surgical bra) after a mastectomy. You pay 20% of the Medicare-Approved Amount for the doctor’s services and the external breast prostheses. A Carmichael’s billing specialist or representative can check your insurance plan to find out whether it covers the breast prothesis or post-mastectomy bra that you want.

How do I get a bra fitted for a mastectomy?

Carmichael’s has a Certified Mastectomy Fitter on staff to assist with selecting the proper prosthesis and mastectomy bra that meets your overall needs. Consultation includes a free fitting with many styles, shapes, sizes, and colors from which to choose. Our Certified Mastectomy Fitter will also provide you with information about how to properly clean and take care of your breast forms. You may bring several different tops to your scheduled fitting to see how the post-mastectomy prosthesis will fit under each. The fitter will ensure that the prosthesis and bra fit well and help you make informed decisions about options available. Contact a Carmichael’s representative at 337-234-0085 to schedule your consultation.