After a mastectomy, many women feel at a loss when it comes to what to wear. The good news is that with a little bit of planning and some help from a tailor, you can put together a wardrobe that makes you look and feel great! In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of clothing that are best for post-mastectomy patients, as well as tips on how to find the right tailor for your needs.
Preparing your clothes for post-mastectomy – What to think about
A mastectomy is a process in which all or part of the breast is removed. It can be a very difficult and emotionally taxing experience, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many women who have gone through this same experience, and there are resources available to help you through it. The process alone is quite taxing, both emotionally and physically. There are a lot of things that you have to think about during this time, such as your recovery, your treatment, and your new body. Moreover, you might also have to think about having mastectomy bras delivered to your home, or even what type of materials you will want to use for future clothes. One of the last things that you probably want to think about is what to wear, but it is an important consideration. After a mastectomy, your body will be different. You may have scars, you may have lost sensation in your breasts, and you may be self-conscious about your new appearance. It is important to find clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Here are a few things to think about when choosing your post-mastectomy wardrobe:
Comfort is key
Remember this! Especially in the early stages of recovery, you will want to focus on comfort over style. Look for clothes that are made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Avoid anything that is tight or constricting, as this can irritate your incisions. If you have any drainage tubes, be sure to choose clothes that will accommodate them. You may also want to invest in some compression garments, which can help with swelling and bruising. After a mastectomy, you might feel like you want to hide your body away. But it is important to remember that your body is just adapting to a new normal. Be gentle with yourself and give yourself time to adjust. In the meantime, focus on finding clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident during this period. This comfort will reflect on your confidence and help you adapt easier.
Tailored clothing will be your best friend
One of the best things you can do for your post-mastectomy wardrobe is to find a good tailor. A good tailor can help you adjust your clothes to fit your new body, and they can also make custom clothing if needed. If you have never used a tailor before, now is the time to start! Look for someone who has experience working with a post-mastectomy patient, as they will know how to best accommodate your needs. Once you find a good tailor, they will become your new best friend. Everything from clothes to sleep in, to mastectomy bras and sweaters to take outside will be best if tailored for you. They can help you adjust your clothes so that they fit well and flatter your new body shape.
Choose clothing that makes you feel good
This is such an important tip! After a mastectomy, it is normal to feel self-conscious about your body. You may feel like you want to hide away and not be seen. But it is so important to remember that you are still beautiful, and you deserve to feel good about yourself. Choose clothes that make you feel pretty and confident. If you don’t feel like wearing a dress or a skirt, that’s okay! There are plenty of other options that will make you feel just as good. A pair of comfortable jeans and a flowy top can be just as beautiful as a dress. It is all about finding what makes you feel good.
Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize!
One of the best things about clothes is that you can always accessorize them to make them your own. After a mastectomy, you may feel like you want to keep your chest area covered up. That’s perfectly understandable! But that doesn’t mean you can’t still show off your style. Use accessories to add a pop of color or personality to your outfit. A pretty scarf can add a touch of femininity, or a statement necklace can dress up a simple top. Experiment with different accessories until you find the ones that make you feel good.
Pick the materials carefully
The material of your clothing is important to consider, especially if you have sensitive skin. Look for natural fabrics like cotton or linen, as they are less likely to irritate your skin. Avoid synthetic materials like polyester, as they can trap heat and moisture against your skin. If you are allergic to certain fabrics, be sure to avoid them. For instance, if you are allergic to wool, you will want to steer clear of clothing made from that material. Some materials can also be more irritating to your skin than others. If you are unsure about a fabric, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose something else.
Be mindful of your incisions
If you have had a mastectomy, you will likely have incisions on your chest. These incisions need time to heal, so you will want to be careful not to irritate them. Choose clothes that don’t rub against your incisions, and avoid clothing that is tight or constricting. If you are having trouble finding clothes that don’t irritate your incisions, talk to your doctor or surgeon. They may be able to recommend specific clothing or fabrics that will be more gentle on your skin.
Get fitted for a mastectomy bra
One of the most important items in your post-mastectomy wardrobe is a good mastectomy bra. A mastectomy bra is a special type of bra that is designed to support your breasts after a mastectomy. It can be difficult to find a mastectomy bra that fits well, so it is best to get fitted by a professional. Furthermore, you may need to get fitted for a new mastectomy bra after your surgery, as your breasts may change size or shape.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing clothes for your post-mastectomy wardrobe. First, it is important to find a good tailor who can help you adjust your clothes to your new body shape. Second, choose clothing that makes you feel good about yourself. Third, accessorize your outfits to add a touch of personality. Fourth, be mindful of the materials you choose, as some can be more irritating to your skin than others. Finally, get fitted for a mastectomy bra to ensure a good fit. By following these tips, you can create a post-mastectomy wardrobe that is both stylish and comfortable.
Leave a Reply