For Black women undergoing bodily changes following breast cancer, the physical and psychological impacts go hand-in-hand.
Whether mastectomy, lumpectomy, or reconstruction, these permanent changes can feel extremely jarring, especially when you’ve spent your entire life looking and feeling a certain way!
The reflection in the mirror, the clothes you wear, and the self-confidence you carry – all of these factors can change post-operation. Fortunately, rebuilding your wardrobe and adjusting your body image don’t have to be uphill battles.
Are you struggling to feel stylish, confident, and comfortable in your “new normal”?
Let’s get right into what you can start doing today…
For many women, traditional bras simply don’t feel the same after surgery. This is why some women seek specialized options.
What are ‘specialized’ options, you ask?
Typically, they contain built-in features, extra room for prostheses, and additional cushion and support.
These unique offerings include:
It should be noted that Black women could potentially face even more unique challenges, in part due to skin sensitivity and a lack of skin-matching prostheses. If you or a loved one finds this to be the case, don’t panic. There are still options available, such as custom-made or tinted prostheses for a more natural appearance.
If you’re not sure where to look, specialty boutiques and some hospital programs may be a viable source.
RELATED: Loving Your Body After a Mastectomy
Sometimes, it’s all about the silhouette.
In fact, certain silhouettes may work particularly well after breast surgery. One look to consider is that of wrap tops and dresses. These are appealing because not only do they adjust easily to asymmetry, but they are also forgiving around scars.
Another option is empire-waist styles, which sit right below the bust and can flow from the midsection, lending themselves to an elegant shape.
Not your type? If you prefer V-necks and scoop-neck tops, then you’re in luck. Depending upon how they’re worn, this class of attire can draw the eye upward, beautifully framing a low-cut neckline, or décolletage.
Finally, look into layering. Whether it’s lightweight cardigans, kimonos, or shrugs, these three options can help camouflage scars while also adding some much-desired style.
Depending on your preference, you may also find success by going bold. Strong patterns, rich colors, and statement jewelry can help shift focus away from areas of concern and back to what you love about your appearance.
Are you fond of flowy maxi dresses and tunic-style tops? These two styles are especially popular for their comfort and cultural connection.
For many Black women, finding a cute summer outfit can feel overwhelming following breast surgery. Even more anxiety-inducing can be swimwear. You’re self-conscious, you’re nervous, you simply don’t know how you’ll look or feel – and that’s completely normal.
Fortunately, you have options.
Certain stores and online marketplaces (e.g., Amazon) stock attire specifically tailored to women in these circumstances. One option is mastectomy swimsuits with built-in pockets for prostheses. An alternative swimwear style is a high-neck rash guard, which is useful for covering chest scars.
If that’s just not you, you might consider tankini sets, which offer more flexibility for mixing and matching. Thanks to modern technology, you can even search for adaptive swimwear brands that combine both style and function for cutting-edge solutions.
If you’re a savvy online shopper, some websites to consider are Post Swim, The Busted Tank, and Lands’ End.
Of course, it all depends on your preferences. Some women choose to go without prostheses at the pool or beach and embrace the freedom that comes with it.
What’s your priority? Is your priority attempting to replicate your pre-surgical appearance as closely as you can? Are you giving yourself permission to be comfortable rather than looking ‘normal’? At the end of the day, it’s your confidence, your outfit, your choice.
Remember that, and don’t let others’ expectations or biases steer you from what you really want.
Another main challenge that breast cancer survivors face is returning to work.
Jobs and careers already bring enough stress, but for many Black women post-surgery, the thought of maintaining professional attire can be quite daunting. If you’re facing wardrobe challenges and don’t know where to turn, keep it practical.
Many women elect to wear blouses with strategic draping. This is a useful way to camouflage asymmetry, and while it’s not a surefire solution, it can sometimes make a noticeable difference. Other wardrobe combinations include jacket layering – like a well-fitted blazer – as well as dresses with defined waistlines that can create shape without clinging.
Finally, if you’re into accessories, scarves and necklaces are worth considering. They accentuate your features, add some flair, and most importantly for many women, distract from the chest area.
You don’t have to go crazy buying up everything in sight, either. Simply investing in a few high-quality, versatile pieces can help you feel put-together, especially on days when your energy is low.
Surviving breast cancer and undergoing surgery comes with a host of new hurdles. After all, adapting to your changed body is arguably as much an emotional battle as it is a physical one. It’s not uncommon for women to go through a grieving process, longing for their pre-cancer physique.
Don’t feel ashamed or dispirited. You have every right to feel this way. Give yourself the time and space you need, and slowly but surely reframe your perceptions.
The first thing you can do to adjust your thought process is shift your attention. Instead of obsessing over what you’ve lost, take pride in what you can do. Although this may not sound particularly empowering at the time, as time moves on, you may be surprised by how much you’re still capable of.
It’s also helpful to consult a stylist. Various stylists actually specialize in post-cancer wardrobes and will be more than happy to assist you in your journey. Speaking of assistance, there are many support groups, both offline and online, including Facebook, the African American Breast Cancer Alliance (AABCA), and other remote and in-person opportunities.
Sometimes, it’s simply a matter of time. Confidence can return gradually, and throughout that process, some women even discover a bolder, more authentic style than before. What this means is all up to you. Could it be brighter colors and bigger jewelry? Could it be more expressive clothing designs and attire choices that you’re loving for the first time?
However you choose to fashion yourself, feeling beautiful again is within your grasp. Whether you choose reconstruction, prostheses, or no prostheses at all, you are the creator of your new look.
Start small. Buy one piece of clothing that makes you smile whenever you put it on. Experiment with one flattering silhouette. With each new addition, style, or accessory, seize the opportunity to build momentum.
After all, you’ve already survived cancer! You’ve already passed the hardest test of all. Now, it’s just a matter of finding comfort again in the skin you’re in. And with time, patience, and some guidance, you have the chance to do just that.
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