Mastectomy Bras, Swimsuits and Insurance: What to Know

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For many women with breast cancer, a mastectomy, or removal of the breast, is a necessary part of treatment. Although breast reconstruction is available to most women, some choose to use prosthetics to replace the missing breast(s). If a patient decides to use prosthetics, there are special types of apparel, known as mastectomy clothing, which can help provide comfort and a natural appearance.

mastectomy bra
Mastectomy bra with a space for a prosthesis.

Here are some common questions around prostheses and mastectomy clothing:

What is a breast prosthesis?

A breast prosthesis is an artificial breast that is used to simulate the natural breast and body shape. Depending on the type of surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), a woman can have full or partial breast prostheses to balance her appearance. The prostheses are typically made out of silicone, foam, or fiberfill and they are worn inside a bra or attached to the body with special adhesive.

mastectomy bra
Mastectomy bras

What is a mastectomy bra?

A mastectomy bra is a special bra that is designed to hold weighted breast prostheses. The bras can come in a variety of colors and styles and can usually be fitted at the same time as a breast prosthesis fitting.

How soon after surgery can I be fitted for my breast prosthesis and mastectomy bra?

Usually, the fittings take place 6-8 weeks after surgery. It is important patients receive permission from their physicians to move forward with a fitting.

Will my insurance and Medicare cover my breast prosthesis and mastectomy bra?

Most insurance companies will cover costs for the prosthesis and mastectomy bras, and Medicare will cover them as medically necessary. Patients should get a prescription from their doctor stating their diagnosis and the need for a right or left breast prosthesis and prosthetic bras.

Is other mastectomy clothing available?

There are several brands that offer clothing specifically for patients who use breast prosthesis. It is possible to find almost any type of clothing – tank tops, t-shirts, dresses and swimsuits – that have built-in bras to offer extra support and room for prostheses.

Some articles of mastectomy clothing, such as lingerie and swimsuits, provide pockets to insert prostheses. Post-mastectomy swimsuits often have extra support for prosthesis and rise higher in the back, so a woman can wear a mastectomy bra with the suit. Special water-friendly prosthetic forms are also available, with fast-drying, breathable fabric.

7 thoughts on “Mastectomy Bras, Swimsuits and Insurance: What to Know”

  1. After reading this article I would like to add that there really needs to be more clothing available to women who have had extensive breast surgery and radiation. Many of the articles of clothing have a low neckline or v-neckline which will not cover any scarring tissue. It is very difficult to buy clothing such as blouses, tshirts, bathing suits, tank tops that are feminine and also provide coverage for women who have scarring which is higher up. I have thought of developing a clothing line myself so that these women can have better choices and feel better about themselves.

  2. I think it is so great that they make these types of clothes. They really do allow women to wear whatever clothing they want, without feeling uncomfortable or be in pain. I know someone who just had this surgery, and she doesn’t know how long she has to wait before she can wear this type of clothing. 6-8 weeks isn’t too long at all. I will make sure I let her know of this. Really glad I was able to find this website.

  4. Please do!

    I am a 43 year old post mast who literally cries every time I ATTEMPT to shop for “gyrl clothes” anymore-a pastime I once really loved.
    I still feel like the very sexy, vibrant woman I am. Dressing for the part, however, is hardly possible anymore.
    I only stumbled upon this blog as Summer is quickly approaching (Yay!) and thus I’ve been combing the Internet, in hope (once again!) of finally finding a swimsuit that isn’t god-awfully ugly or old lady-like. This search is now several days in and, well…NOTHING!

    Far more than my breasts….I really, now, just miss my “gyrl clothes”.

    Thanks for reading.
    N0barbiehere

  5. I am having a hard time as well. Where on this page do i Actually find swimsuits? I am 44 and have a corporate job. I cry the same when it comes to shopping to look normal.

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