Frequently Asked Questions

  • What do I need to know before my Surgery?
  • How do I take care of my prosethesis? and more...

 

 


Why Do I need Pre and Post Surgery Garments

When do I fit the garments?
Always fit the garments prior to surgery to establish the correct size. Although you will be smaller after your liposuction procedure, post-operative swelling typically means you’ll be the same size you as were for the first few weeks after your surgery. Make sure you take the garments to hospital so they can be fitted before you are discharged.  Always consult your fitter prior to surgery for the correct garment.

How long should I wear the garments?
Compression garments should be worn at all times for at least 6 -8 weeks after surgery. Always remove them when bathing or showering. If the garment is uncomfortable to sleep in use fitting bike pants, a soft post surgical bra or sports bra depending on your surgery.
 It is recommend that you have multiple garments in order to always have a laundered garment on hand. For many cosmetic procedures, it will be necessary to wear your garment continuously for a long period of time. A high quality post-operative, medical compression garment is specifically designed to be worn for long time periods during the recovery process from a cosmetic surgery. The fabrics and construction used in a medical compression garment enable a patient to wear the garment for long periods of time without experiencing discomfort.

Could I use a non medical garment?
There is a big difference between medical, plastic surgery compression garments and off-the-shelf girdles, bras, or athletic shorts that you might find in your local store. While a non-medical girdle or a pair of athletic tights can be of high quality, they are not designed for cosmetic surgery recovery and are not manufactured with the materials, features, technology, and fabrics that are ideal for providing constant and consistent compression to a patient for extended periods of time. In many cases, a garment from the local store can actually provide too little or too much compression and cause your recovery to be longer and more uncomfortable than if you were to wear a medical, plastic surgery compression garment.

How do I know which garment is best for me?
Amanita has many different styles of garments.  Your choice should be based on a number of things, including the type of procedure that you are having and the amount of time you will need to spend in the garment.  The garment should always compress your body areas beyond the extent of the surgery as the swelling and bruising will spread.
Amanita staff are experienced fitters and will guide you as to the best garment for your surgery.
What else should I know?
If you are having a breast augmentation, reduction or reconstruction it is essential to wear a recommended compression or post surgical bra 24hrs a day for at least 6 weeks. This will ensure the breasts will not spread too far apart. Avoid underwire bras for at least 2 months and do not go without a bra
It is equally vital to wear a compression garment after a face lift. This will aid swelling control and will also give some pain relief.
If you are going to travel after surgery, make sure you wear your compression garment. If you experience swollen feet wear Tubigrip to cover the feet and legs.

 

 

What is a Prosethesis?

A breast prosthesis is externally worn in the bra to closely simulate the look of a natural breast. This safe, non-surgical option is the choice of many women following breast surgery.

All our breast forms are individually handcrafted with a silicone mixture.

The brands we have available are: Amoena & Trulife

Available in many forms including:

  • lightweight, attachable, foam and swimwear styles. Sizes from 1 - 14.
  • Partials and Shapers available for lumpectomies, reconstruction and breast size variations.
  • Nipple sets available in pairs.
  • “It Stays” Roll On Adhesive – gentle and non-allergenic
Is it Important to wear a prosthesis

Wearing weighted silicone breast prostheses following a mastectomy is medically necessary to maintain a proper weight and shape symmetry of the chest and back. Maintenance of proper weight and shape is important for proper alignment of the spine, shoulders and chest which will help minimise and prevent posture problems and back injuries.

How to Take Care of your Prosetheses

  • To clean your prosthesis, wash gently in lukewarm water daily and dry with a soft towel.
  • Do not wring or rub and avoid using powder, perfume or hot water directly on your prosthesis.
  • Sharp objects close to your breast form can damage the prosthesis,eg. fingernails, pins, brooches, scissors and pets’ claws.
  • Wearing the correct bra size is very important because it prolongs the life of your prosthesis. An ill-fitting bra may damage it.
  • Always keep the prosthesis in the cradle provided when you are not wearing it. This will help to maintain the shape and prevent accidental damage.
How to Fit a Prosethesis

Whatever type of surgery you have had, it should be possible to find a prosthesis that feels comfortable and exactly matches your other breast to restore a natural outline. Your shape, age and certain medical factors may also need to be taken into account. Amanita stocks many different styles to accommodate all needs. Prostheses normally last for at least two years and need replacing when they lose shape and firmness. You may need a replacement sooner if your weight or shape changes.

The Staff of Amanita are experienced in resolving all kinds of problems that can arise with fitting lingerie. Please telephone or, better still, come and see us if you are experiencing difficulties such as:

  • Prosthesis moving around or falling out of bra cup
  • Prosthesis showing above the bra at the front or underarm
  • Prosthesis showing beneath the underband
  • Uneven outline of breast shape - especially after reconstructive surgery
  • Bra feeling uncomfortable or not looking right, or if you think a different style is required
  • Difficulty fastening your bra at the back
  • or just if you need a general fitting in a private comfortable environment.

Checkpoints for a good fit

  • The bra size is too small if the underband feels too tight when you take a deep breath.
  • Sharp objects close to your breast form can damage the prosthesis, eg. fingernails, pins, brooches, scissors and pets’ claws.
  • The cup size is too big if there are wrinkles or excess fabric in the cup area, or if the breast form can move around loosely.
  • Try a smaller cup size, or a larger/different shape breast form if your natural breast fits the cup properly.
  • The bra size is too big if the underband rides up at back or the sides feel too loose. Try a smaller bra measurement as needed.