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Colleens Lingerie and Swimwear
0
  • Shop
    • All
    • Bras
      • D Cup & Above
      • Front Opening
      • Maternity
      • Soft Cup
      • Sports
      • T Shirt
      • Underwire
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      • Post Surgery
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faqs

What is a post-operative bra?

A post-operative bra is a specially designed bra for individuals who have undergone any type of breast surgery. These bras are designed to provide comfort and to promote healing.A post-operative bra is a specially designed bra for individuals who have undergone any type of breast surgery. These bras are designed to provide comfort and to promote healing.

Why do I need a post-operative bra?

Post-operative bras offer crucial support during the recovery phase. They are designed with features such as front closures, adjustable straps, and soft materials to minimize discomfort. These bras also help maintain proper shape and alignment during the healing process.

Are there different types of post-operative bras?

Yes, there are different types of post-operative bras. Comfort bras are usually worn after a lump removal or mastectomy without reconstruction. Compression bras are usually worn for reconstruction. Ask your surgeon or breast care nurse which bra is right for you. 

How long should I wear my post operative bra?

How long should I wear my post operative bra?

As a guide it is recommended that you wear a post surgery bra immediately after surgery and continue to wear it for at least 6 weeks. This will depend on the type of surgery, how well the wounds have healed, the presence of fluid or swelling and recovery in general. Your surgeon or breast care nurse will be able to advise on how long you will need to wear it.

How is a post-operative different from regular bras?

They provide comfort during the initial stages of recovery when the surgical site may be sensitive and are designed to promote healing. They often feature pockets to hold light weight breast forms or prostheses, soft seams, and gentle materials to avoid irritation on sensitive skin.

When should I start wearing a post-operative bra?

It's typically recommended to start wearing a post-operative bra immediately after surgery, as soon as your healthcare professional gives you the green light.  Your bra is worn all day and to sleep in.

When should I stop wearing a post-operative bra?

It’s typically recommended to wear it for 6 weeks. The length of time will depend on the healing of your surgery. A non-wired supportive bra is best worn after you stop wearing your post operative bra.

How do I choose the right size post-operative bra?

It's crucial to consult with a certified mastectomy fitter to determine the appropriate size.  Factors such as swelling, changes in breast size, and type of surgery will be considered to ensure a comfortable and supportive fit.

Can I claim a Medicare Rebate for my Breast Form?

External Breast Prostheses Reimbursement Program

Medicare will help with the cost of an external breast prosthesis after breast cancer surgery. You can get up to a maximum of $400 for each prosthesis.

To get this you must:

be enrolled in Medicare
have had breast surgery as a result of breast cancer - includes mastectomy and having a lump removed
not have purchased and claimed under this program in the past 2 years.

For the full rebate conditions see the External Breast Prostheses Reimbursement Program

How Do I Wash My Bras?

Bras will keep their shape longer if hand washed. Think about washing them in the shower, if that saves you time - avoid rubbing the fabric.

If washing your bras in a washing machine we recommend using a lingerie washbag to ensure you get the best from your bras. Always ensure the hooks and eyes are fastened prior to placing them in a wash bag.

Use a mild detergent, cool water on a gentle or delicate cycle and a low spin dry.

Avoid drying garments in direct sunlight and do not tumble dry. 
 

How Do I Care For My Swimsuit?

Your swimsuit should be rinsed in cool, tap water after each time you wear it whether for swimming or sunbathing. If you have time to allow the suit to soak for 30 minutes, even better. This will remove most of the chemicals and sand and body soil that harm the fabric.  The chlorine in pools can harm a swimsuit's elasticity and cause the fabric to yellow. Almost every swimsuit contains spandex or Lycra, so again prompt cleaning is important.

After rinsing out the suit, it is recommended that you hand wash it. Plain water does not remove all the salt or chlorine. Refill the sink with water and add just a tablespoon or less of liquid detergent or suit saver  (guaranteed to remove harmful chlorine). Don't use powders because they may not dissolve completely or rinse away well. And, never use bleach. Turn your swimsuit inside out. Swish for several minutes and then rinse well. Gently squeeze - don't wring - the water out of the fabric. Spread your suit flat to dry in a spot out of direct sunlight. The UV rays from the sun can both fade and break down the fibers in your suit. Never use a dryer.

Using a hydrotherapy pool regularly or sitting in spa jets may break the lycra or spandex down quicker. It is recommended that you purchase a chlorine resistant bather and ensure you care for your swimsuit by following the instructions above.

Why does my bra ride up at the back?

80% of the support in a bra comes from a well-fitting under band.

If your underband rides up, or if you can pull it more than an inch from your back, then it's time to size down

 

The under band should sit firmly around your ribcage, level at the front and back and parallel to the ground.

The correct band size will sit snugly and not move whether you raise your arms up or have them by your side. Try lifting your arms, if your underband is lifting away from your chest, your band size is too big.

The centre front of your bra should sit flat against your ribcage.


 

Why am I spilling out of my bra cup?

This is a sign that your cup is too small.

There should be no bulge or squashing under the arm and no dreaded quad-boob in sight! If you’re spilling out of your cup a little or a lot, try a bigger cup size.

The correct cup size will give you an even, rounded shape. The underwire should extend fully behind your breast tissue.

Why doesn't my bra sit right?

If your centre front of an underwire sits on top of your breast tissue. This is a sign that your cup is too small.

 

When the centre front of an underwire bra sits flat it should provide separation between the two breasts and sit firm.

 

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The term ‘Colleens Lingerie and Swimwear’ or ‘us’ or ‘we’ refers to the owner of the website whose registered office is . Our ABN is 79166878842. The term ‘you’ refers to the user or viewer of our website.

The use of this website is subject to the following terms of use:

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We are committed to ensuring that your privacy is protected. Should we ask you to provide certain information by which you can be identified when using this website, then you can be assured that it will only be used in accordance with this privacy statement.

We may change this policy from time to time by updating this page. You should check this page from time to time to ensure that you are happy with any changes.

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We may collect the following information:

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What we do with the information we gather

We require this information to understand your needs and provide you with a better service, and in particular for the following reasons:

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If you believe that any information we are holding on you is incorrect or incomplete, please write to or email us as soon as possible at the above address. We will promptly correct any information found to be incorrect.

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