Post-surgery camisoles

Sushitex
Sushitex Member Posts: 2
in Breast Cancer #1

Hello!  

 

I am new to this discussion board and chatroom. I will be undergoing a bilateral mastectomy in about 3 weeks and I'm looking for information about the post-surgery camisoles that I have seen offered on websites that sell prosthesis for breast cancer. I know next to nothing about the camisoles so far, other than the brand of Amoena being recommended by a Reach to Recovery volunteer. 

I hope to find a local medical supply store so that I can go in to see the camisoles, but still haven't done that. 

Any help would be appreciated - how you liked the camisoles, how many to buy, etc.

Thank you! 

Comments

  • gmamac
    gmamac Member Posts: 19 Member
    #2

    Mine were a godsend after my surgery. They have pockets for the drainage bulbs which take pressure off the tubes on your chest wall and even have pockets for soft prosthetics if you so desire. Mine were lovely with beautiful feminine lace and soft Velcro which was helpful and provided a needed psychological boost as well. After I healed, I repurposed them by removing the pockets and Velcro and reapplying the lace and now I wear them as attractive undershirts or camis. The hospital gave me one and I bought two more.

  • cutenewt
    cutenewt Member Posts: 2 *
    #3

    I think we got the same camisole. Surgery scheduled next month and I’m interested to see how the pretty camisole works. Showed the surgeon the camisole and she seemed pleased. Liked the detailing on it and the breast forms. Also bought a zip cardigan with drain pockets that is stylish enough I can use it after drains are removed. Great place to tuck valuables. Trying to see the up side.

  • gmamac
    gmamac Member Posts: 19 Member
    #4

    Best of recovery dear heart. Be patient with yourself; you've got this. I love your attitude. Gayle

  • MonarchLover
    MonarchLover Member Posts: 7 Member
    #5
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1692432#Comment_1692432

    I had my first mastectomy in 2009, reconstructed on both sides with implants. Fell and ruptured implant in 2021 - had both implants removed and mastectomy on the other side on Nov 3, 2021. No reconstruction...... now learning how to live as a woman without breasts because I don't want the hassle of wearing prosthetics ever again.

    I think the camisole I was given when discharged from the hospital sounds very similar to what has been described, but mine had no beautiful feminine lace. 😕 I was sent home with a lovely binder wrapped around my upper torso held tight with velcro down the front. So tight it was sometimes challenging to take a deep breath. Yet, it felt more comfortable than even the idea of trying to squeeze myself into that camisole. Too painful for me so I stuck it out with the velcroed binder.

    I have no doubt your positive attitude serves you well. I recently read a quote by Lena Horne " It's not the load that breaks you down, it's the way you carry it." Reading that somehow gave me a needed boost. I'm glad you found this site before surgery. I hope you'll continue to stay connected and let others help you through the rough moments. Gayle was right when she told you "You've got this."

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