bilateral mastectomy

Hey,
I had a bilateral March 17, 2007. I was not able to have reconstruction until the first of August due to chemo. I found a sportsbra that hooks in the front very comfortable. I finally found one at Walmart of all places. I checked everywhere I could think and then found Walmart. I have heard that a sock is lightweight and not so hot. Now this is going to sound totally wild but you could try Splenda or a light weight substitute to fill in say a microfiber glove (used to dust with). I know it sounds crazy but it is lightweight and it will give a pucker. Angela

I have tissue expanders in now, will do reconstruction after radiation. You can look on ACS website for their TLC catalog....lots of different stuff to order. I am not sure about where to go for sizing of prosthesis, or which type is lightest, or what.

Sorry I am not much help. seof

I have a right mastectomy and use a silicone prosthesis. I checked out the internet for the closest "store" near me. The boutiques that specialize in personal fittings and only products for breast cancer patients have the most experience in getting you fitted and the best selection of bras and protheses, but the local hospital supply shop will usually do in a pinch (mine doesn't have much selection though). I like the mail order company called Jodee Bra Inc. for their bras. 1 (800)865-6333. They also sell prosthesis. They have light weight foam ones, swimming ones that will work for regular(hollow in the back), silicone, and more. They are very good at working with your insurance or medicaid program. I have heard of air-filled bras for those folks who want totaly light, but I am built small and like the natural look of silicone--as long as it is in the bra and not me!! The newest foam ones are supposedly very cool and hang naturally. Medicare and most insurance programs will buy the prostheses and bras and replacements as needed, usually two bras and a prosthesis every two years. A bilateral patient gets two prostheses obviously. You can get by with stuffing a sport bra with a shoulder pad from the sewing center. Pin it if it tends to shift. But a well-fitted special bra with the right weight prosthesis might work better in the long run. I hardly even think about dressing and I go swimming, to the gym, and to work. I go without anything at night, but I hear they even sell glue-on forms for folks that don't like their nighties less than filled out. I just looked for nighties with some frills that looked okay on the new me and stayed away from plunge necklines. So far, no complaints from my hubbie, so I guess it works.

If your problem is what to do after the operation but before you can wear a prothesis, you might try the lounge bra that Jodee's sells with a polyester stuffed prothesis. I had a little breast-shaped pillow and two lounge bras that the hospital gave me as I left the operating room. When I graduated to a prosthesis, the bras worked with the new form. I kept the pillow and used it whenever I felt sore or had more surgery. Sports bras work too, but sometimes I'm too active and might lose my "stuffing". Good luck!