
- National Breast Cancer Coalition
Breast cancer advocacy in the fight against breast cancer - BreastFree.org
The Alternative to Reconstruction - Pink-Link
Online Breast Cancer Support Network - Step Up, Speak Out
Breast cancer-related lymphedema - American Cancer Society
- Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization
Support ans Services for breast cancer - Arthritis Foundation
Support and information about arthritis - Sit and Be Fit
A non-profit organization committed to healthy aging - Maddak, Inc.
Aids for Daily Living - Amputee Coalition of America

In the News:
Customer Testimonials:
Ladies, I am a double mastectomy patient with lymphedema or swellign in arms, my chest and back. I needed a compression garment that would cover all these areas and be comfortable and stylish would be nice. I never thought I would find an under garment that would work much less a garment that could be worn as a top. Your CrissCross Shaper is wonderful. It is comfortable, functional for my lymphedema, pocketed and wow, stylish. It holds my prosthesis in place which is great, because most compression garments don't have pocket. I wear it to work and am comfortable all day and it helps by compressing my lymphedema and gives me back a shape. I would recommend this great garment for any one whether they had a mastectomy, lymphedema or just want something that is great to wear.
-Pam G., Fresno, CA
Following my recent bilateral mastectomy, I was very grateful for the innovative designs of the Wear Ease post-surgical garments. The front closure made things so much easier and more comfortable to manage with the pain and limited mobility.All of my needs and concerns had already been addressed in the construction and quality of the garments.The Wear Ease design selections address comfort and femininity with great care and attention to detail. I found their products superior to those offered by other companies.
-Connie, Redlands, CA
After breast reconstruction surgery
What to expect
You are likely to feel tired and sore for a week or two after implants, and longer after flap procedures. Your doctor can give you medicines to control pain and other discomfort.
Depending on the type of surgery, you should go home from the hospital in 1 to 6 days. You may be discharged with a surgical drain in place. The drain is an open tube that is left in place to remove extra fluid from the site while it heals. Follow your doctors instructions on wound and drain care. If you have any concerns or questions, call your doctor.
Getting Back to normal
You should be up and around in 6 to 8 weeks. If implants are used without flaps, your recovery time may be shorter. Some things to remember:
- Reconstruction does not restore normal sensation to your breast, but some feeling may return.
- It may take as long as 1 to 2 years for tissues to completely heal and for scars to fade, but the scars never totally go away.
- Follow your surgeon's advice on when to begin stretching exercises and normal activities. As a rule, you'll want to avoid any overhead lifting, strenuous sports, and sex for 4 to 6 weeks after reconstruction.
- Women who have reconstruction months or years after a mastectomy may go through a period of emotional readjustment once they have their breast reconstructed. Just as it takes time to get used to the loss of a breast, you may feel anxious and confused as you begin to think of the reconstructed breast as your own. Talking with other women who have had breast reconstruction might be helpful. Talking with a mental health professional may also help you sort out these feelings.
- Silicone gel implants may open up or leak inside the body without causing symptoms. Some surgeons will recommend that and MRI of the implant be done on occasion to make sure it isn't leaking.
This article is compliments of www.cancer.org

















