Additional FAQ's

Is it important to wear a breast prosthetic after having a mastectomy?

Yes, because it distributes weight on your chest wall, which helps you maintain proper posture and a healthier skeletal and muscular structure.

What kind of care does a breast form require?

A breast form can be washed by hand with a mild soap, patted dry and stored in its cradle, nipple side down to maintain its shape. 

Are mastectomy products covered by health insurance

Most health insurance plans provide coverage for bras and prosthesis annually when ordered by your physician. Forever Me is a participating provider with all major health insurance providers, including Medicare and Iowa Medicaid.

Are there products for women who have had a lumpectomy or reconstruction who are not symmetrical?

Yes. Balance products are partial breast forms created for symmetry after partial breast loss due to lumpectomy, reconstruction, or a natural imbalance.

How is a balanced appearance achieved with a breast prosthetic?

Approximately 4-6 weeks after your surgery, consult with your doctor to see if you are ready for your fitting. A Forever Me certified fitter will verify your bra size and fit you with a surgical bra. All surgical bras have pockets manufactured into the cups of the bra that hold the breast prosthetic in place. Once proper bra size and fit have been determined, a breast prosthetic is chosen to fit into the cup of your surgery side. In most cases, you will be able to leave Forever Me with your prosthetic and at least one bra.

Are there differently shaped breastforms?

Yes, when fitting, there are three distinct shapes based on profile:

  • The shallow profile is most often seen on the mature woman with soft breast tissue where the breast tissue drapes in the lower cup of the bra.
  • The average profile woman usually has firm breast tissue and a round profile. This woman has an equal amount of breast tissue on the top and bottom of the breast, with a rounder appearance in the upper cup area.
  • The full profile has the roundest appearance. This woman requires a bra that provides not only bottom cup support, but also containment, separation and coverage for the upper part of the breast. In some cases, the full profile can actually be broad without much projection.

What is lymphedema?

If your breast surgery involved removal of lymph nodes you may be at risk of developing lymphedema, an accumulation of lymphatic fluid causing swelling in the arm and possibly the hand on the side of the surgery.

Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Notify your doctor of any swelling, pain, warmth or redness of the hand or arm.
  • Avoid heavy lifting, constricting clothing or jewelry on affected side.
  • Keep the arm moisturized and avoid overexposure to the sun.

Recognition of early onset and proper care can keep lymphedema under control.

Have Additional Questions? Ask them here!

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