|
|
|||||
|
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do you have to have had cancer to be fitted for bras? A. No, we provide service and garments to all women, any age, in every stage of life.
Q. Why come to The Pink Door for a fitting? A. Our philosophy is that even though a woman has had surgery she should not feel that she is relegated to the back room of a durable medical supply firm. At The Pink Door you will encounter a space that is feminine and personal. The fitting room is spacious and comfortable, which are qualities necessary for any lingerie fitting to be productive.
Q. Is an appointment necessary? A. Walk in visitors are welcome. However, if time is a constraint, an appointment ensures effective use of your time.
Q. What is covered by insurance? A. The Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 requires insurers who provide coverage for mastectomy surgery to provide coverage for:
Q. Will The Pink Door process insurance claims? A. We will process all paperwork for your claim to the insurance provider.
Q. Why doesn’t The Pink Door have an online store? A. We believe an effective fitting can only be accomplished by a hands-on certified fitter. The nuances of a good fit cannot be addressed without personal attention and the discussion that goes on in the fitting room.
Q. Is this the same material as found in former breast implants? A. Similar, but not the same. External breast prostheses are "cured" in a manufacturing process and are not in a liquid state. If a breast prosthesis tears or is punctured, the silicone will not hurt the skin or the body, as it cannot be absorbed through the skin.
Q. When should I be fitted? A. You should be fitted with an immediate post-surgery camisole which will help manage the drains and has a fiberfill poof as a temporary form. At approximately six weeks you will likely be ready for a full fitting for a silicone breast form and bras. You should confirm with your doctor that you have healed sufficiently to make your fitting appointment. The doctor will provide a prescription for the items you need.
Q. Why do I need weighted breast prosthesis (form) after breast surgery? A. A properly fitted breast prosthesis helps replace the weight lost after breast surgery. This replacement is not merely for cosmetic or psychological reasons but for physical reasons as well. When a natural breast is removed the body is no longer in balance and will compensate with slight curving of the spine and "shoulder drop." Both conditions may lead to chronic lower back and neck pain. A breast form restores a feminine shape and feeling of balance. Wearing a breast form will help restore your self-confidence and body image.
Q. If I am very small breasted or had partial surgery such as a lumpectomy, do I still need weighted breast prosthesis? A. Yes. Even if you are small breasted you should replace the weight. You will also need the weight to help hold your bra in place around the rib cage. A light non-weighted form adds shaping in a bra but may slip up during certain movements.
Q. Will people be able to tell if I have a breast form on? A. No!! With a proper fit no one will be able to tell you are wearing a prosthesis (or breast form). Silicone prostheses have the weight, feel and form of your remaining breast.
Q. Will wearing a breast form restrict my activities in any way? A. Wearing a breast form should not restrict your activities. There are lightweight/swim forms available for exercise and water activities, if you find the silicone breast form unsuitable or too heavy.
Q. How do I care for my breast form and how long will it last? A. Care should be taken with sharp objects to prevent the outer film of the breast form from being punctured or damaged. A breast form should be cleaned with warm water and mild soap, and dried gently after use. When not in use, the breast form should be stored in its cradle to help maintain the shape of the form and prevent accidental damage. Most manufacturers guarantee silicone forms for two years.
Q. Can a breast form be worn with a regular fashion bra (a bra without a pocket)? A. Yes, but fashion bras have not been designed to meet the specific needs of most mastectomies. Mastectomy bras have been designed with deeper connectors and wider wings which provide more support for the weighted form than regular bras.
Q. Why should I go to a professional fitter? A. Because you have a medical need that should to be addressed by a certified professional. She has been trained in the intricacies of prosthesis and garment fitting. She has passed board examination and been awarded a professional certification.
Q. Does my insurance pay for any of my post mastectomy needs? A. Yes. Medicare will pay for a silicone prosthesis every two years and six bras every year. Medicare will also cover a light weight leisure form every six months. Most private insurance pays for one silicone prosthesis a year and two to four bras a year. You should check with your carrier to see what your plan covers.
Q. If my breast size changes due to weight loss or gain before I’m due for a replacement, will my insurance cover two prostheses in one year? A. Yes. If your doctor provides another prescription. Providing the insurance company a certificate of medical necessity might also be required.
Q. How often should I have my fitting checked? A. Once a year. However, if your weight changes 10 pounds up or down, you should have a fit check. Also, if you have changed your body shape, this might also affect the way your garments fit.
Q. More questions? A. Call or e-mail us for additional answers. |
  |
|||
|
101 Sunset Point Palatka, FL 32177 phone: 386-328-9424 fax: 386-328-9470
Hours by appointment only Tue-Fri 10am to 5:30 Call or e-mail to arrange your next visit. Like us on Facebook!
|
|||||
