1. What will I need now that I have had breast surgery?

If you had a lumpectomy or a portion of your breast removed, a silicone partial works great to smooth out and create a more symmetrical image. If you have had a mastectomy, an external prosthesis will restore that natural look you had before surgery.

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2. Do you carry a surgical garment that accommodates drain tubes and bulbs?

Yes! We carry a garment that is designed for comfort and function. This garment features a drainage management system for the Jackson-Pratt, Hemovac systems. A great garment to be used immediately after a Mastectomy/Lumpectomy or Reconstruction/Augmentation.

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3. Do I need to make an appointment and if so, how long will I be there?

Appointments are recommended. Your initial appointment will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

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4. Do I need to bring someone with me?

Absolutely! Many bring their daughters, girl friends, spouses or daughters-in-law. This is your time and we want it to be an informative and pleasurable visit. You can come alone or bring someone with you; it’s up to you.

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5. I had lumpectomy surgery some time ago and recently noticed that one side of my bra doesn’t fit well anymore. Can anything be done to correct this?

Yes! Many times after lumpectomy surgery, women may experience some asymmetry. It may be noticeable right away; sometimes months later; and in some cases, years later! The good news for these women is there is a partial prosthesis, a natural feeling “overlay”, which slips discreetly into the pocket of a mastectomy bra and corrects the asymmetry.

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6. Does insurance cover these products?

In most cases, yes. Women having any breast surgery with a diagnosis of breast cancer are entitled to the same benefits – not just those having mastectomy surgery. The benefits are driven by the diagnosis of breast cancer, not the surgical procedure.

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7. I have elected to have reconstruction of one side following a mastectomy. Now I find that my breasts are a noticeably different shape and size, and the reconstructed one is higher up than my natural side. I don’t want to have further surgery and there are no guarantees the problem can be fixed. What can I do?

As with lumpectomy patients, you may be a perfect candidate for a partial prosthesis. They come in varying sizes and thicknesses with no more inconvenience than putting on your glasses or contact lenses every day. The method for most reconstruction dictates that the reconstructed breast will have a slightly flattened effect; even if you elect to have your surgeon construct a nipple area after the implant is in place. While visually things look good, retail bras aren’t made to fit this shape; a problem, which sometimes shows through your clothing. Again, Medicare and insurance cover products if you had a diagnosis of breast cancer.

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8. I had reconstruction years ago. I have lost weight since then and now my reconstructed side is larger than my natural side!

The guidelines for these products state the importance of restoring the weight and balance after breast surgery. Sometimes getting that symmetry back means wearing a partial on the unaffected side! Whenever we gain or lose weight, we likely gain or lose breast tissue as well. It’s not uncommon for women to gain or lose down the road from reconstruction and need to do a little “fine tuning” to get that symmetry back. It’s perfectly acceptable in cases like this to wear a partial on the unaffected side to correct asymmetry.

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9. Does my insurance cover breast care products?

We are preferred providers with most major carriers including Medicare, Partners MedicareChoice, Medicaid, BlueCross/Blue Shield (HMO, PPO, State), Cigna, Medcost, Primary Physician Care, & UnitedHealthCare. We will contact your carrier to explore what benefits you have toward Durable Medical Equipment. As a courtesy, we will contact your insurance carrier even if they are out of network, to determine your eligibility.

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10. Do I have to pay a co-pay?

An estimated copay is determined when benefits are quoted by your insurance carrier. Co-pays, if applicable, are required at each visit.

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11. What if I don’t have insurance?

We will help you to explore all possible options. Assistance is also provided by Cancer Services in Forsyth and surrounding counties.

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12. What should I bring?

A prescription from your physician and most current insurance card.

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13. Do you have wigs?

Yes! We carry Jon Renau, Raquel Welch and Henry Margu.

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14. What type of head coverings do you carry?

We carry stylish hats from Doorfman, Betmar, Parkhurst, and Physician Endorsed. We also carry a fine line of cotton voile, rectangular and square scarves in assorted colors and prints. Sleep caps and hat scarves are also available.

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