Ill fitting under garment

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ewambold
ewambold Member Posts: 7
edited June 2014 in Mental Health: Because Cancer Doesn't Just Affect Your Breasts

I had a bilaterial mastectomy with reconstruction on March 20, 2009. My skin flaps were in very bad condition, no blood profusion. Probably more than half of the skin was either a very dark purple or black. My plastic surgeon had me go to a hyperbaric chamber for 20 treatments but there was too much necrotic skin to hold the implants. On April 21 I had to have the implants removed, all of the necrotic skin was removed and I was place on a wound VAC for 30 days to try to help the healing process. After thirty days, I must say that the wound VAC did do what it was supposed to do and my breast wounds are almost completely closed. I have had no contact from anyone connected with breast cancer other than my surgeons. I purchased a post surgical camisole online prior to returning to work but not knowing what size I should wear, I ordered one too large and spent every minute pulling at it and adjusting it. I was then given a prescription to go to a shop that sold clothing for my purposes. I was given a sports bra that hooks in the front with two inserts. My problem has been that the bra rides up constantly to the point that my "breasts" are too high up and I am constantly pulling it down. It is extremely annoying and if it wasn't for working at a place with all men, I would probably not even wear it. It is that frustrating!

Is this normal? Will I have to do this the rest of my life? Even after I have been fitted with a regular bra and prosthesis?

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  • Kayree
    Kayree Member Posts: 466
    edited July 2009

    I am so sorry you have been through all of this.   If you do not have your prosthesis yet, this simply may be a result of not having enough weight in the cups to keep the bra from riding up.  My mother had this problem when she first had her mastectomy.  She tried on several different bras and prosthesis before she found the one that worked best for her.  We were very fortunate that the stores in our area were staffed with knowledgable and patient salespeople who were willing to help find the best style and fit for her body type.  Hope this helps.  Good luck! 

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  • ewambold
    ewambold Member Posts: 7
    edited July 2009

    Karen,

    Thank you very much....it does help. I haven't had a chance to go back to the store where I bought this sports bra. They do not have very convenient hours and I am trying not to miss too much work while I am able to. I will try to get back soon and see if we can remedy my situation. As I said, it is driving me crazy!

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  • Kayree
    Kayree Member Posts: 466
    edited July 2009

    I understand.  It is so hard to find time to do everything that you need to.  It would be nice if these places had extended hours at least 1 or 2 nights a week wouldn't it?  Hopefully, you'll get things straightened out though.  Good Luck! 

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