Welcome to the final episode of our 5-part blog series, ‘Navigating Diagnosis to Recovery,’ featuring insights from Mrs. Jill McNeely, a retired breast nurse navigator who has spent years guiding patients through the challenges of breast cancer. In this segment, we explore the vital role post-surgical bras play in recovery, how to prepare by purchasing one before surgery, and why the Resilience Bra could be a game-changer for your healing journey.
The Importance of Post-Surgical Bras
For decades, the recovery bra industry has remained stagnant, forcing patients to hack and modify their bras immediately after surgery. While hospitals typically provide a post-surgical bra, these are often minimal and fail to meet patients' specific needs. Many women resort to safety pins for their post-op drains, wear aprons to hold their drain bulbs, or even cut into their bras when they’re too tight. Most post-op bras available today are made from cheap materials and lack the essential features necessary for proper recovery after breast surgery.
If this were you, your best friend, sister, or mom—wouldn’t you want the most comfortable, supportive post-surgical bra available, one you wouldn’t need to hack or adjust? After all, this is a critical time in recovery, and the right post-op bra can make a world of difference in providing both physical and emotional support.
A quality post-surgical bra, like the Resilience Bra, is designed to support all types of breast surgery patients, from breast cancer surgeries to cosmetic procedures. As your needs evolve throughout recovery, the Resilience Bra is designed to adjust, providing the necessary support immediately after surgery and transitioning seamlessly into a reliable sports bra for everyday use. It's a worthwhile investment in both short-term comfort and long-term versatility.
Why the Resilience Bra is Right for Your Surgery
The Resilience Bra is a comprehensive solution tailored to meet all your post-surgical needs—from customizable fit to drain management. Even for those without post-op drains, the bra’s removable pockets allow it to function as a sports bra for everyday use or during future procedures.
Here are some of the patented features that make the Resilience Bra stand out:
- Soft, Breathable Fabric: Comfortable enough for 24/7 wear.
- Adjustable Shoulder Straps: Ensures the bra fits your unique body shape and size.
- Drain Pocket Holders: Removable pockets manage up to three drain bulbs on each side.
- Drain Tubing Holders: Securely coils tubing against the body for added comfort.
- Interior Pockets: Equipped with removable pads, or can hold a prosthesis or ice packs.
- Extended Pocket: Provides extra support for swelling or compression pads, which is particularly helpful for lymphedema.
- Insurance Reimbursable: Eligible for Medicare and most insurance providers, making it an affordable option for many patients.
Getting Your Post-Surgical Bra Before Surgery
Did you know you can and should obtain a post-surgical bra before your surgery? Although your hospital may provide a basic bra post-op, having a more comprehensive bra like the Resilience Bra on hand allows you to take control of your recovery, and it may even be covered by insurance. Here’s how you can ensure you’re prepared:
Option 1: Visit a Mastectomy Boutique
Mastectomy boutiques are excellent resources for patients about to undergo breast surgery. These specialized shops carry post-surgical bras, breast prosthesis forms, compression sleeves, wigs, and other essential items. Here’s how to get fitted for a post-surgical bra:
- Find a Boutique: Search for local mastectomy boutiques or ask your nurse navigator for recommendations.
- Make an Appointment: Once your surgery is scheduled, contact the boutique to set up a fitting. You’ll need to provide your insurance information and ask your care team for a prescription for the bra.
- Understand Coverage: Your appointment may last 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on your needs. Ask your fitter how many bras your insurance will cover and how often you can return for replacements. Many breast cancer patients can receive new bras annually after their diagnosis.
- Post-Surgery Pickup: In some cases, you may leave with your bra before surgery. In others, a caregiver may need to pick it up for you once you're home.
Note: If your boutique does not stock the Resilience Bra, share our information and ask if they’d consider carrying it.
Option 2: Purchase a Post-Surgical Bra Online and Submit to Insurance
If you prefer to buy the Resilience Bra online, you can still submit a claim to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), most group health plans that cover mastectomies must also cover breast reconstruction, which may include post-surgical garments like mastectomy bras.
Here’s how you can file for reimbursement:
- Check with Your Insurance Provider: Contact them to understand your coverage and the timing of when post-surgical bras will be eligible for reimbursement.
- Get an Itemized Receipt: After purchasing the Resilience Bra from Three Strands Recovery Wear, email sales@threestrandsrecoverywear.com to request an itemized receipt.
- Secure a Prescription: Ask your physician for a prescription to submit along with the necessary documents to your insurance company.
Keep in mind that while filing a claim increases your chances of reimbursement, approval is dependent on your specific insurance plan’s guidelines.
For more information about Three Strands Recovery Wear, including retail locations, online purchasing options, and ambassador opportunities, visit threestrandsrecoverywear.com. For questions, email info@threestrandsrecoverywear.com. To purchase the Resilience Bra, use the store locator to find a retailer near you or buy it online here. Use code BLOG15 for 15% off your first purchase.
Please note that while this series provides valuable insights and personal experiences, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Viewers are encouraged to consult their physicians or healthcare providers for any medical concerns.