what to wear after biopsy?

Kimber

I am having an excisional biopsy on Tues and I cannot find a decent bra to wear afterward. The surgical nurse told me to try to find a size larger sports bra with no wire that hooks in the front. Any suggestions? I am having two places biopsied, not sure if I will have two incisions or not - they are both in the same general area, but about 2 inches apart. Any help is appreciated. I have been keeping up with the boards, my love and hugs to all go through this nerve racking experience. It's not fun.

thanks,

Kimber

jayhawk

Hi Kimber,

As far as the bras go, I found several good ones at WalMart that were soft cotton, no wires, and fastened in the front.  Hang in there and I'm hoping the best for you with your biopsy!  Donna

shelle3

Kimber,

I'm also having an excisional biopsy on Tuesday (1/08).  I've not even thought about finding a front openning sports bra!!!  I'm heading out to Target first thing in the morning.  They seem to have a large selection.

Good Luck with everything!

Shelle

Kimber

Shelle,

Please let me know what you find @ Target! I asked the pre-op nurse and she said any kind of larger size sports bra is best so as not to "smoosh" your incision too much - sports bras are great for "smooshing"! she also said to wear something that zips down the front. I'm interested to hear your story - have you already had a needle biopsy? I'm ready for this to be over - how about you? Maybe we can hold each other's hands.......



Kimber

shelle3

Hi Kimber,

Here is my story (beware - it is long!)...I am 35 and had a baseline mammo in August.  I had to go back to have additional views done and an ultrasound.  I have very dense tissue, but everything is "normal tissue".  In early October I found a small lump in my right breast.  My doc was not concerned and thinking that it is a result of fibrocystic changes, but sent me for an ultra sound anyway.  It was clear.  They recommended I have and MRI because of the density.  I had an MRI and it showed a small mass about 1cm in size.  I saw a surgeon who wanted me to have an MRI biopsy.  Went for that, but they couldn't do it b/c they did not do the MRI, therefore they couldn't read it with their equipment.  Had MRI number 2, but it came back perfectly clear.  Followed up with an ultrasound a month later - all clear.  All along the lump can still be felt.  All the docs can feel the lump, but it just won't show up on imaging.  The radiologist cannot do a biopsy since it can't be seen.  My surgeon said they could do an excisional biopsy to remove the lump, although everyone thinks it is nothing but fiborcystic stuff.  So here I am...waiting to get this darn thing out.  I 've gone through every emotion possible (fear, anixity, worry, anger, guilt, calmness, and back to the fear and worry).

Please let me know how things go for you on Tuesday.  I pray that all goes well and that your path report comes back with good news!

Shelle

ilenee

I would also recommend a shirt that  has a zipper or button up. You don't want anything where you are going to have to raise your arm over your head.

I found great bras at Lane Bryant. They will also measure you. And they wash well. I machine wash and dry mine and they all have held up great.

Good luck to you!

Ilene

shelle3

Kimber,

I didn't have any luck finding a front close sports bra at Target, but I did find one at Wal-Mart.  It is not the most attractive thing in the world, but it was only $6 or $7.  I won't feel guilty throwing it out later!

Shelle

Kimber

OK, I am going to check today. What time is your biopsy on Tues? What are you doing to distract yourself???

shelle3

My surgery is scheduled for 7:30 (have to be there at 6:30).  I've been trying to keep busy cleaning the house and taking down all the Christmas stuff.  My daughter (7) has kept me busy with all her arts & crafts, games and reading.  Hubby and I plan to chill out and watch movies.  I'm getting that real sick feeling.  You know the one.  Your mind starts going over all the horrible things that could be wrong.  My doctor's had almost convinced me that everything is okay, and the lump is nothing to be concerned about.  Today it hit hard that this lump could take my life in a total different direction - to a place I don't want to go.

Kimber

I hear you! I have to be there at 630, too. Wire localization at 8 and surgery at 10 - the nurse told me he (surgeon) has allowed for 80 minutes in surgery. Yes, I have the sick feeling. But I am actually ready no matter what the outcome. It is in my family history, and I figure if I get it, it saves another woman who may be not able to handle it as well as I think I can.



I wish you the best and let's keep chatting if it helps you!

Kimber

Beesie

I never had problems with back close sports bras.  What you really want to avoid are those that you put on over your head.  That you won't be able to do after surgery. 

Kimber

Thanks Beesie! That's all I could find anyway!

HeatherBLocklear

Shelle -- please post as soon as you're able. I only had a core vacuum thing done in the doctor's office, but was very sore for several days (I'm still hugely bruised three weeks later). So my recommendation is to take a couple of days off to do nothing but watch Oprah and drink hot chocolate without wearing a bra. Are you able to do that?

All my best and strongest wishes for the best outcome are going in your direction!

Annie

HeatherBLocklear

Kimber -- same thoughts and affection for you. Please post when you know.

Hugs,

Annie

Ver0322

I had a biopsy done yesterday and my cousin recommended me a sports bra that zippers in the front. It was the best thing I could have ever gotten. You can get it at Target. Wishing you the best for your procedure.

Moderators

Thanks for sharing the tip, Ver0322! We wish you benign results for your biopsy!

Please come back and let us know how you're doing. We're all here for you!

--The Mods