How to Select the Right Mastectomy Swimsuit
Finding the right bathing suit after a mastectomy can feel like quite the challenge. It’s overwhelming to navigate the world of prosthetics, inserts, and covering up scars. Don’t worry, we are here to help. Here’s a little secret: swimwear is all about feeling good. The key to selecting the right bathing suit for you is choosing the suit that makes you feel comfortable. Here’s a look at several mastectomy swimsuit options
Padding and Inserts
If you use a prosthetic, making sure you have a specialized spot to insert your prosthetic is a must. There are some mastectomy swimsuits that include a special pocket for your prosthetic. You can also use the removable pads in a padded bathing suit too. The key is selecting a piece of swimwear that can hold up the prosthetic and keep it in place. Some swimwear shops can even custom-sew a pocket just for you.
High Neckline
If your scars are higher on your body, consider wearing a high-neck swimsuit top. This trendy and athletic style comes in a variety of bold patterns and cuts. You can get a traditional bikini top or even a one-piece or tankini. What’s great about this style of top is that you’ll be able to easily hide any high scars while remaining fashion-forward with a trendy look.
Separates
If you’re opting for a bikini look, selecting the correct top is crucial. Don’t be afraid to mix and match your tops and bottoms to find the optimal swimsuit. Pair two-piece swimsuits with skirts and supportive tops that keeps everything in place with a little padding. If you have a pair of bottoms you love, look for complementing colors or patterns to go on top. Experiment with different styles to suit any beach day.
Bold Colors and Patterns
Show off your personal style with boldly printed swimsuits. Big, fun prints and bold colors that bring some personality to your swimwear not only help to cover up any scars or size differences, but they also make a statement too. Look for chunky patterns, like floral designs, and vertically oriented patterns to draw the eye down instead of across your body. Don’t be afraid to celebrate your beautiful body with a swimsuit that commands the beach.
One-Piece Swimwear
For women who have scars that run lower, you may find you feel more comfortable wearing one-piece bathing suits. Today’s swimwear offers plenty of different cuts, even in one-piece styles. You can opt for a tummy control suit, or you can show off your new body with a strappy one-piece bathing suit. With today’s beauty standards, busty no longer equates to beautiful. More and more body types are celebrated in fashion, so don’t be shy to show off your flatter side. If you feel comfortable, the sky is the limit for one-piece suit styles.
Strappy and Fabulous
A lot of women love that they need less support post-mastectomy. This is your chance to select a swimsuit back with a fun, strappy design. You can keep the front covered, but take advantage of needing less support with a strappier back. Try on several different looks you wouldn’t even consider before your mastectomy. The styles that now work for your body could surprise you. Look for an athletic swimsuit with fun designs and full coverage upfront.
High Arm Cuts
Some mastectomy scars cut through up to the armpit. Choose swimwear with higher arms and full coverage. Look for a sportier cut to hide any underarm scars. You can even pair this look with a high neckline or go for something that has more of a plunged neckline. Either way, you’ll get the coverage where you want it while still showing off your best assets.
For selecting the right mastectomy swimsuit, it’s important to think about what you want and what will work for your body. If you want to show off your scars, then the sky is the limit. If you would rather feel covered, there are plenty of stylish options available to you. Today’s swimwear isn’t about fitting a beauty mold; it’s about feeling comfortable in your own skin. Select the bathing suit that best shows off your fun and fabulous self.