The Reality of Reconstructive Surgery

Many women who get reconstructive surgery after mastectomies receive comments about being blessed with new boobs. But the differences between their breasts and healthy, augmented ones are visible. Remember you aren’t defined by your scars, but rather stronger because of them... read more

What to wear when you have a colostomy

You will not need special clothes for everyday wear. Colostomy pouches are fairly flat and hard to see under most clothing. The pressure of elastic undergarments won’t harm the stoma or prevent bowel function... read more

Living Well with Jody: Pass the (Green) Plate!

Cleanses, fasts and diets all have one thing in common—they’re generally about what you’re NOT eating. Maybe it’s because we suffer from a fear of missing out, or because restrictions remind us of our parents’ imposed limits on us, but this approach isn’t very fun... read more

Five Post-Mastectomy Garments That Help You Feel Comfortable and Feminine

With so much focus on breasts in fashion, it can be hard feeling feminine after having a mastectomy. But there are garments you can wear to help you feel womanly again without sacrificing comfort.

Bra

The foundation of every woman’s wardrobe is a good bra. Mastectomy bras have pockets for breast enhancers and prosthetics. Some lack elastic bands and certain seams for better comfort. There is even lingerie to help you feel sexy again.

Camisole

Camisoles are a versatile staple. Mastectomy camisoles with built-in bras eliminate the need for a bra. Some have drainage pouches and are made from stretchy material so you can step into it to put it on. Regular camisoles are perfect for wearing underneath see-through fabrics and plunging necklines.

Blouse

Shirts may seem challenging until you know what to look for. Button-up blouses are best right after surgery for easier dressing. After recovery, buy tops with ruffles and draping around the neckline to add volume. Bold prints and asymmetrical designs draw attention to the entire piece instead of just your chest.

Sleepwear

Your pajamas should be relaxing for improved rest. There are camisoles, nightgowns, t-shirts, and nighttime bras. Look for soft, flexible fabrics for maximum comfort.

Swimwear

Having a mastectomy doesn’t mean you have to hide your post-surgery body. Whether a one-piece or two-piece, mastectomy swimsuits have full coverage to hide scars and breast enhancers, inner pockets for breast forms, and fun, flirty patterns to increase confidence.

View your mastectomy as an opportunity to update your wardrobe with pretty, fashionable garments. There are various styles that can meet your physical needs and desire for femininity. To find out a realistic post-mastectomy prosthesis in Los Gatos, visit this website.

The Breast Cancer Myth

Only a small percentage of breast lumps turn out to be cancer. But if you discover a persistent lump in your breast or notice any changes in breast tissue, it should never be ignored… read more

Breast Cancer FAQs

Can physical activity reduce the risk of breast cancer? Exercise boosts the immune system and helps you to keep your weight in check. With as little as three hours of exercise per week, or about 30 minutes a day… read more

How to Cope With Hair Loss Caused by Breast Cancer

Coping with hair loss as a result of breast cancer can be a challenge. It may sound superficial, but we attach a lot our identities and self-expression to how we style our hair. For many, it truly symbolizes how different daily life is or will be, so an adjustment period is normal.

Allow Time to Grieve

Even if the doctor tells you about potential hair loss, it may still come as a shock when it happens. It is natural for you to need time to adjust and grieve, so allow plenty of room for those difficult emotions.

Remember:

• Being upset is normal
• Understand your attitude will change
• Work towards self-acceptance
• Grieve and accept at your pace

Find and Join a Support Group

Often, it is very helpful to find others who are going through the exact same thing. It can be such a relief to not have to explain a situation so someone else can understand. Seek out cancer support groups and attend meetings as needed. It may also be worth it to talk to a counselor or therapist one-on-one. Additionally, try confiding in a trusted friend or family member. However you want to do it, find yourself a solid support system.

Ignore Hair Loss Prevention Methods

While there are hairs products than can strengthen your locks, most preventative measures simply do not work. Instead, work towards accepting your situation and explore other options like wigs or fun headpieces. Of course, there is never any shame in going out bareheaded. Hair may be beautiful, but you can still be gorgeous without it. To learn more chemotherapy wigs in Los Gatos, please visit this website.

Colorful Butterfly Tattoo Shows Beauty in Change

This colorful butterfly tattoo is a perfect complement to the pink Breast Awareness Ribbon that it hovers over. It reminds us that changes happen but there can be a beautiful future ahead just the same.

Dark Days of Breast Cancer

At 12:05 a.m. light streamed across my bed as the door opened into my hospital room. It was not unusual for nurses to come and go at all hours… read more

Prostate Cancer Prevention and Early Detection

Learn about the factors that may affect your risk for prostate cancer, and get information about the pros and cons of early detection tests to help you decide if prostate cancer screening is right for you... read more

A Mastectomy Prosthesis: Alternative to Reconstructive Breast Surgery

If you have just gone through a mastectomy, you might be wondering about alternatives for getting the shape of a breast without undergoing another operation. A mastectomy prosthesis is worn in place of the removed tissue so that you have the appearance of having two breasts. This allows you to either not get reconstructive surgery or, at the very least, put it off until you’re sure that you want it.

In addition to varying shapes and sizes, prostheses can be made of different materials, such as silicone gel, fiberfill or foam. There are some that are weighted and others that are not. They can also differ in terms of how you wear them. Some mastectomy prostheses are meant to be used with bras made specifically for them, slipping into an opening within. Others use magnetic attachment, with one magnet attached to the back of the prosthesis while the other attaches to your skin.

There are two main categories to choose from:

Silicone
These tend to feel and feel more natural. They are heavier than the other available materials. There are two basic options within this category.

• Symmetrical, also called pear-shaped, prostheses can be work on either the left or the right.

• Asymmetrical prostheses are designed specifically for use on one side or the other.

Lightweight

Made from either foam or polyester fill, these are the best choices when you’re still recovering from your surgery. They are more comfortable than silicone, easier to wash and can also be worn in water.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of prostheses and many women choose to have both types for different occasions. To learn more about prosthesis bras in Los Gatos please visit this website.