Mastectomy Swimwear for Women of All Ages
When hopping back into the pool post-mastectomy, you likely want to take more time to pick out a new swimsuit than you would have before your mastectomy. Taking into consideration whether you want a prosthesis or not as well as how it will fit, for example, takes time. You may even want to try on a variety of swimsuits to see what feels best on you.
Choosing Lands’ End swimwear is the first step, as you can feel confident knowing that they’ve been providing comfortable swimwear of high quality for breast cancer survivors for 25 years. With the number of mastectomy swimsuits to choose from, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and looks great no matter what your age. But since age is just a number, read on for our suggestions on finding a post-mastectomy swimsuit that best fits your personality.
If You’re the “Mastectomy ... What Mastectomy?” Type
Whether you chose implants post-mastectomy, use prosthetic inserts, or use nothing at all, you might be the type of woman who refuses to change her style just because of your mastectomy. You’re living your life to the fullest, and you’re still the same person you were before. So ... if you still love that itty-bitty bikini, go ahead and rock it, whether you’re 29 or 79.
If You Like the Look of a Bikini but Want a Little More Coverage
OK, we get it; bikinis aren’t for everyone. Some of us feel more confident covered up, at least in a little more than what a bikini would offer. The next best thing is a tankini, which offers a little more coverage in the top piece. Having a few tankinis on hand allows you to mix and match them. This is great for when you might feel more modest and prefer a mastectomy tankini top with a high neckline one day but may feel like you want a more revealing neckline another day. So, if you like the look of a two-piece but want the freedom to mix and match based on how you’re feeling, tankinis are a great choice for your swimwear collection.
If You Like the Timeless Classics
There’s just something about a one-piece swimsuit that looks timeless and classy. But making sure the chest fits as well as the rest of the swimsuit can be a challenge for women after their mastectomy. That’s not the case with Lands’ End’s one-piece mastectomy swimsuits. Options like prosthesis pockets, smaller armholes to cover any scars, and raised necklines make these one-piece swimsuits preferable for many breast cancer survivors.
If You Love Your Curves
Whether you’ve had a mastectomy or not, embracing and being proud of your curves is what makes you the woman you are. And there’s no reason to change that mentality just because of a mastectomy. You’re still the same gorgeous gal you were, so feel free to keep your curvy look with swimwear that offers prosthesis pockets. When it is designed with feedback from breast cancer survivors in mind, it looks completely natural and can do wonders for your self-esteem if you’ve always liked your curves. Plus, without an underwire, you’ll feel comfortable enough to wear it all day.
If You Prefer Modest Coverage
Sometimes you feel more confident the more coverage you have. Or maybe you don’t want to take any risks with skin cancer and prefer to keep as covered up as possible. There are lots of options for you if this is the case. Cover-ups come in a variety of styles and coverage options, allowing you to easily transition from water to land, and even look dressy enough to sit at a beachside café. But you can’t necessarily swim in a cover-up. You can, however, swim in a rash guard, which is a lightweight swim T-shirt that you wear over your swimsuit. They come in a wide variety of styles and dry quickly, so they’re great if you want extra coverage over your swimsuit. Plus, Lands’ End’s rash guards offer UPF 50 protection from the sun, which is a major bonus.
If You’re More About the Accessories Than the Swimsuit
Maybe a day at the beach or pool for you doesn’t involve more than dipping your toes in the water, and your swimsuit isn’t as important to you as what you wear with it. If you love your accessories so much that you want them to be the focus of your swim ensemble, consider a solid swimsuit without any patterns that might compete for attention with your accessories. Then have fun wearing your favorite summer jewelry, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and whatever else makes you happy. Just remember to pack some sunscreen in your beach bag with all your accessories so you can protect your skin while enjoying your day.
Remember that age is just a number, and you’re free to wear whatever type of mastectomy swimsuit you like. But keeping these considerations in mind can certainly make the process of choosing the best suit for you easier.