Breast Surgery FAQ

My customers tell me that asking questions of someone who has undergone Breast Cancer is very helpful. Seeing the options of the post surgery camisole, bras, swimwear, and breast forms can create a sense of control during a time when most women report high levels of stress. Let me help you feel safe, secure and confident.

When do women come see Bridget at My Left Breast?
Everyone is different, although most women are doers and part of their to-do list prior to surgery is a visit to My Left Breast.

Why would I come prior to surgery?

The days prior to surgery are filled with unknowns. Women tell me that having someone answer practical questions lessens some of their anxiety.
You will be able to see the post surgery camisole that you can bring to the hospital. It is very soft, the soothing vitamin E and Aloe infused fabric aids healing and increases comfort. The camisole features a zip-front and front fasteners to allow easy access during treatment and while recovering range-of-motion. Plus, the cotton pockets hold a light breast form and there are two pouches for the drains which most mastectomy patients leave the hospital with.

When can I be fitted for a breast form (prosthesis)?
Usually after 4 - 6 weeks or when your swelling and healing is complete.

What is the government funding, where are the forms, what do I do?
The Ontario government covers $195 for a full prosthesis and $105 for a lumpectomy partial prosthesis. This covers a portion of the costs. I have forms and will help you fill them out.

Does the government cover the costs of mastectomy bras?
No, unfortunately bras are not covered by government funding. If you have insurance, call your insurance carrier as many plans cover 3-6 bras per year. And please let me know if you do not have benefits and I will ensure you are properly fitted in the most economical bra and prosthesis.

I will be having chemotherapy. Do you carry wigs and scarves?
Yes, I carry wigs and a lovely brand of scarves called the BUFF, (you may have seen these on Survivor). Visit My Left Breast prior to starting your treatments. This will allow us time to find the most appropriate wig and head wear that suits you and your lifestyle. My customers tell me their wig choices have fooled family and friends!

Wig FAQ

My Left Breast offers private wig fitting consultations. Please call for an appointment. Drop-in appointments are also welcome. Although, if I am with a customer you may find you have to wait. You can also view the wigs on the website and phone and discuss which style you prefer.

Initially, I will meet with you to discuss sizing, styles, and colours. At the first appointment you can try on different styles. I have many wigs in-stock and wigs can be special ordered. Delivery of wigs usually takes 1-2 days.

If you are undergoing chemo-therapy it is often wise to purchase your wig prior to treatment. Many customers report they feel a sense of confidence knowing when they loose their hair they have a wig waiting at the ready. Also, once treatment begins you tend not to want to be fussing with more appointments. Although, everyone is different and your way is the only right way!

Some people like to have one wig they are comfortable with and others tell me they want two wigs, one for fun and one for everyday.

For hair loss I also have scraves, BUFFs and DeLux hats. Many of these are posted on the website or you can call me at the shop to discuss your needs.

Wig Price Range
Synthetic wigs start at $185
Synthetic Mono Top Wigs $315 - $600
Human Hair Wigs $350 - $1000.

Care and Handling of Synthetic Wigs
Avoid all heat sources e.g. stay away from ovens, barbeques, hair dryers, curling irons.
Heat will damage the wig fibers.
Limit the time the wig rubs against collars (rubbing against collars can fray the wig's ends)
Place you wig on a wig stand when not wearing, this will allow the wig to air dry.
Prior to placing the wig on your head hold the wig with your hand inside and give the wig a shake.

Washing your synthetic wig

Wash your synthetic wig every ten to fourteen wears

Gently brush wig or hairpiece to remove teasing or tangles, using a wig brush or loop brush.
Add one teaspoonful of specially formulated wig shampoo to two quarts of cold water (never hot water)
Soak for 3 - 5 minutes, then gently swish up and down. Do not rub.
Rinse thoroughly in cold water.
Apply wig conditioner.
Rinse again in cold water.
Pat gently with a towel.
Place wig on wig stand.
Allow to dry naturally and light brush wig when thoroughly dry.

Care and Handling of Human Hair Wigs

Cleansing the human hair wig

Before shampooing, gently remove all tangles. If the hair is excessively tangled use a spray-in conditioner. Start untangling from the bottom of the wig and work upwards.
Always use a mild shampoo or one specially formulated for chemically treated hair.
Run the hair under warm water. Place a small amount of shampoo on your fingers and gently work the shampoo into the hair, stroking downwards from the weft base to the ends. Do not twist, scrub, or rub the hair. Use shampoo sparingly.
Rinse thoroughly under warm water until the water runs clear. Be sure to rinse until all shampoo is removed, as improper rinsing could result in damage.

Conditioning the hair

Place a small amount of conditioner in your hand. Gently work into the hair and let sit for three to five minutes.
Rinse thoroughly in warm water.
Gently towel blot to remove excess water.
While wet, gently comb the hair to remove tangles. Using a large toothed comb, move in a downward motion away from the wefts and to the ends. Do not use a bristle brush on wet hair as it may pull out or break the hair.
Hang to air dry, set in rollers or use a blow dryer on a low setting as desired.

Styling the hair

Steam rollers or wet setting are the safest way to curl human hair.
Blow dryers, curling irons and other thermal tools may be used on low settings. Remember the hair may scorch if the setting is too high.

Any cutting, or any chemical processes such as perming or colour of human hair wigs or pieces should be done by a professional stylist.