Five Steps for Purchasing a Sports Bra After Breast Surgery

/PRNewswire/ -- Buying a bra - especially one for jogging or other athletic activities - is a frustrating experience for many women. For women who have had breast surgery - whether for cancer or another procedure - it can be especially challenging.

With a number of breast cancer walks and runs scheduled for spring and summer, not to mention swimsuit season around the corner, finding just the right sportswear is important. Amoena, the worldwide leader of post-breast surgery products, provides bras, swimwear and other apparel to help women after breast surgery. The company also helps to train and educate bra fitters (fit specialists) to help women find the ideal bras and sportswear for their unique body types and daily activities.

"We want to make sure that every woman has a bra that properly supports them while they engage in a fun and enjoyable exercise regimen," said Valerie Esquilla, product manager for Breast Forms and Textiles for Amoena. "Studies show that exercise is one of the best choices women can make to fight depression, improve their overall health and regain their confidence after breast surgery. We want to encourage women - whether they've exercised before or not - to find some activity they enjoy - and get out there and do it!"

So how can women who have had breast surgery find the best bra for their needs? Here are five simple tips from Esquilla and Amoena fit specialists.

1. Remember that fit is everything! Many women find that their body
changes considerably after surgery. Even if you have prostheses or
implants that indicate one size, your bra size may vary depending on
the style. Let a trained fit specialist measure you to find the best
possible bra style and size.
2. Find a comfortable bra. Even if the bra is your size, or appears to
fit, if it isn't comfortable, chances are you won't keep up your
exercise routine. Try on the bra, and then mimic some of the movements
you might engage in during exercise. If it is uncomfortable in the
fitting room, it will definitely not be comfortable when you are at
your highest activity level.
3. Ensure you feel confident in your bra. Wear your exercise attire to the
fitting. If you bend over and "show a little more skin" than you want,
consider buying a different style of clothing. You may also want to
wear shirts that are more fitted around your waist so they won't ride
up while exercising. "You don't want to feel self-conscious when you
exercise," says Penni Pitre, a breast cancer survivor from Phoenix, AZ
and a self-proclaimed jazzercise fanatic.
4. Check for balance and symmetry across the chest - especially if you've
had a full or partial mastectomy or lumpectomy. Wider shoulder straps
are important to help balance the weight of your breasts and provide
greater comfort. Pay special attention to the shoulder area. Make sure
the bra isn't pulling or adding too much weight for your shoulders. And
remember that if one breast is a different size, there are "symmetry
shapers" that can help to ensure balance.

5. Make adjustments as necessary. As you exercise your body will likely
change again. If in a few months your bra isn't providing the support
and comfort you need, go back to your fitter to see what adjustments
can be made. You may not need a new bra; simple alterations may
suffice.


Esquilla cautions that when you do begin exercising, to start slowly and don't get discouraged. If you haven't exercised for several months, get your doctor's approval first, and then gradually ease into your new routine. Some initial discomfort and tenderness after surgery is normal. "Keep trying, but if you remain sore or overly tired after a few tries, be sure to contact your physician," says Esquilla.

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Amoena Introduces First Post Surgical Garments With Vitamin E & Aloe to Help Soothe and Comfort After Breast Surgery

/PRNewswire/ -- Amoena, the worldwide leader of post-breast surgery products, today announced the introduction of The Hannah Collection, the industry's first post-surgical garments infused with Vitamin E and Aloe to ease discomfort after breast surgery.

The post-surgical camisole and bra both feature a drain containment device system as well as a soft, soothing material, made with microcapsules of Vitamin E and Aloe that have been infused into the fabric.

Designed specifically to provide comfort after surgery, as well as help women regain a sense of femininity, the camisole features a zip front while the bra offers a hook and eye front closure. The innovative design makes it easier for women to slip on or off either garment while recovering range of motion after breast surgery. Both products offer soft decorative lace trim and elastic straps that fasten in front for easy access during treatment.

"Amoena's new Hannah post-operative camisole assists healthcare professionals following first or second stage reconstructive breast surgical procedures that require drain management," said Dr. Stephen Harris, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Good Samaritan Hospital, New York. "The zip-front closure allows professionals to easily fit the garment immediately following surgery and also allows for ease of wear while the patient recovers her range-of-motion. The Vitamin E and Aloe treatment that the fabric lends to the wearer's skin adds an element of comfort for the patient, and is a nice addition to such a functional garment."

The Hannah Collection is available through leading retailers, boutiques, Durable Medical Equipment (DME) providers, hospitals and physician offices. A list of retailers can be found at www.amoena.us. Specially-trained Amoena fit specialists will help women find the right undergarments for immediately after surgery and beyond. "Fit specialists play a key role in all our products," said Valerie Esquilla, breast form & textile product manager for Amoena. "They have the experience and background to understand what women are going through after breast surgery and to work with them to find the very best products for their needs."

Many post-surgical bras, drain containment systems and undergarments are covered by insurance. Amoena encourages women to check with their health plans for additional information.

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