Restoring Your Body Image After Breast Surgery
SOFTEE® Prosthetic Camisoles recreate shape following segmental, partial or full removal of the breast(s). SOFTEE® Camisoles are the perfect choice whenever women are not able to wear a bra. Each unique style provides comfort, shape and protection while restoring self confidence and a healthy body image. Three of the SOFTEE® designs include two soft attachable breast forms which can easily be adjusted to the specific size and shape needed. If only one breast form is necessary, the additional form is simply removed.
Following a biopsy, lumpectomy or mastectomy, temporary surgical drain tubes may or may not be necessary. The drains are a sterile suction device inserted during surgery to remove fluid that accumulates under the skin. The fluid is collected in a reservoir or bulb at the base of the surgical drains. Your physician will clearly explain and instruct you in how the contents of the bulb is periodically emptied and measured.
The following information will help you determine which SOFTEE® style or other Ladies First product is appropriate for your specific needs.
 Needle Biopsy
A needle is used to remove a small amount of tissue and/or fluid from the lump for testing. This may be done in the doctors office.
The SUPPORT SOFTEE® is a shorter midriff length version with a wide band for light lift. This camisole includes two adjustable breast forms which are ideal for enhancing subtle differences in the size and shape of the breast(s) after minimal tissue removal. The SUPPORT SOFTEE® style is not recommended when surgical drains are present.
Surgical Biopsy
The doctor surgically removes some breast tissue or fluid for testing. This kind of biopsy is usually done as a hospital outpatient.
The POCKETED CAMI™ is a comfortable option if you are tender and unable to wear a bra. If you have range of motion which allows you to comfortably raise your arms, the Pocketed CAMI with built in spandex bra may be beneficial. Special inside pockets accommodate temporary breast enhancer(s) if needed after recovery for additional fullness and a balanced appearance. This product is not a SOFTEE® and does not include breast forms. The nonbinding, smooth and seamless cups of the Pocketed CAMI offer a fit similar to that of a sports bra, with light compression to hold bandages and tender breast tissue securely in place.
Lumpectomy
This surgery (also called a partial or segmental) is the surgical removal of the cancerous lump. Only the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue are removed, leaving most of the breast intact. Some of the lymph glands in the armpit may also removed through a separate incision.
If surgical drains are present, your choice may be the SOFTEE® TWO with 'roo' pocket to accommodate the surgical drains. When not being used, the 'roo' pocket lays flat against the abdomen. For those women who are tender and not comfortable wearing a bra and do not require the 'roo' pocket, the ORIGINAL SOFTEE® is a comfortable and practical selection. Both of these SOFTEE® styles Include two light weight, adjustable breast forms which offer shape, comfort and a protective cushion over the surgical area.
Mastectomy
Modified Radical Mastectomy - In this procedure the entire breast, two chest muscles and some or all lymph glands in the armpit are removed.
Simple Mastectomy - Also called a partial mastectomy, this is a less extensive procedure in which only the breast is removed; some or all of the lymph glands remain.
For these two surgeries your first choice should be the SOFTEE® TWO. Designed with the unique 'roo' pocket to comfortably and discretely store the surgical drains, the TWO is also cut slightly lower under the arm for maximum comfort while healing. Breast form adjustments for all SOFTEE® styles are conveniently located on the outside of the garment. The soft poly fil breast forms are easily adjusted and can be positioned to create a balanced appearance while wearing the camisole. If possible and your insurance allows, purchase your SOFTEE® prior to being admitted to the hospital. With your physicians approval you may wear your SOFTEE® immediately following surgery. You will appreciate the restored shape, balanced appearance, security, and comfort the SOFTEE® offers during your stay in the hospital, going home, and throughout your six to eight weeks of recovery.
Surgical Breast Reconstruction
Implants - Breast like mounds are placed under the skin or muscle to create a new breast.
Complete Breast Replacement - Replacement of breast and nipple by using muscle and tissue from other parts of the body.
The RECONSTRUCTION RECOVERY CAMISOLE patterned after the SOFTEE® TWO, comes with one breast form and includes the 'roo' pocket to store the surgical drains. This SOFTEE® is ideal for accommodating the changes you will experience throughout the steps of recreating the breast(s). As your new tissue is constructed, the soft breast form can be adjusted accordingly to even out the asymmetry of the breasts, offering a balanced and natural look. Additional breast forms may be purchased separately.
Radiation Treatment
High energy xrays are used as a primary treatment to destroy early tumors, or after surgery, to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
For comfort and convenience during radiation therapy many women choose to wear the ORIGINAL SOFTEE® or the SUPPORT SOFTEE®. The stretch lace straps and soft giving fabric allow the camisole to be pulled down to the waist for treatments and doctor exams. Designed without seams, hooks or closures there is no irritation to the tender chest wall. The two soft breast forms provide soothing protection under clothing. One or both breast forms can easily be removed and adjusted if tissue loss is minimal as in biopsy or lumpectomy.
Other Applications for SOFTEE® Recovery Camisoles
- Ongoing leisure garment for home and sleep
- Protection and comfort following thoracic surgical procedures, like heart surgery
- Skin irritations such as excema, psoriasis, hives, etc.
- Shingles
- Arthritic, disabled or elderly patients who have limited hand and arm mobility
- Lymphedema patients
 Read more on our Q & A page.
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