Many women who undergo a mastectomy procedure opt to wear mastectomy bras after surgery. While each will probably have a different motivation for this choice, there is one indisputable truth among all of them. Each woman’s reason to do so is incredibly personal and powerful.
What Is A Mastectomy Bra?
A mastectomy bra is just like any other bra, but it serves more purposes than shaping and support. Technically, this specialized bra is a post-surgical undergarment that is meant to stabilize breast prostheses that are used after the breast tissue is removed.
While not all patients choose to use a breast prosthesis or a mastectomy bra after surgery, others do. It is typical for someone who has undergone a mastectomy to consider adding a mastectomy bra to their intimate collection for a myriad of reasons.
Why Choose A Mastectomy Bra?
After a full or partial mastectomy, patients often have a choice to make. Will they use a breast prosthesis temporarily or permanently? If temporary, will they opt for reconstructive surgery at a later time? This is why choosing whether to wear a mastectomy bra is such a personal decision. There is no set direction post-mastectomy and every patient will want different things for themselves and their bodies.
Reasons Why Someone May Choose to Wear a Mastectomy Bra
Many people, particularly women, suffer from depression and negatively impacted self-esteem after a preventative or emergency mastectomy because of poor body image issues and feelings of uselessness. Many patients begin wearing loose-fitting clothes to “hide” their bodies.
Societal expectations and cultural norms often equate female breasts to ideal standards of femininity. While that is an obvious construct, it is difficult for many women to put it aside after a lifetime of that association. So, when a mastectomy bra is an option after surgery, it becomes much more than underwear. It becomes a powerful choice.
Benefits of Mastectomy Bras
Mastectomy bras can be both emotionally and physically beneficial. Some of the positives of wearing mastectomy bras include:
- Aesthetic support for diminishing negative body image
- Compression to help reduce swelling and encourage drainage.
- Prosthesis placement and support
Mastectomy bras may also help someone who is considering reconstructive breast surgery. Many patients choose an alternative breast size for their new breasts. These bras can help someone decide what fit might work best for them when that time comes. Another nice perk of mastectomy bras are the various fabrics and styles that are available. While there are basic styles, many are glamorous and intricate like any other underwear.
Essentially, mastectomy bras are just like any other undergarment. However, these bras provide their wearer with a wealth of support that goes way beyond the physical. A person might not have much of a choice about getting a mastectomy, but they certainly have a powerful choice when it comes to choosing a mastectomy bra. Read more exciting articles on Today World Info
