How To Buy A Mastectomy Bra
Looking for a bra to wear after a mastectomy can feel overwhelming, confusing, and even a bit scary. But not to worry, we are here to help guide you. Founder & Survivor, Dana Donofree, created AnaOno after facing all these fears herself. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer as a young woman in her 20’s, she searched everywhere on how to buy a mastectomy bra. She looked for mastectomy bras on google, she searched for mastectomy bras on ebay, and even looked for a mastectomy bra on amazon, only to find disappointment after disappointment. Many mastectomy bras were plain, matronly, and bad polyester quality; none of which she desired after her breast cancer diagnosis. Learning to love your body after a mastectomy surgery, with or without reconstruction can feel overwhelming. The scars, the pain, the discomfort, all of these challenges arise when looking to buy a mastectomy bra, and that is why, we here at AnaOno, want to make sure it is as easy as it can be to find your own beauty and comfort after a breast surgery.
Find A Mastectomy Boutique Near Me
Finding a store that carries mastectomy bras is part of the battle. Many traditional department stores may have bras that fit, but are not mastectomy bras. You want to find a lingerie store that specializes in mastectomy bras and breast forms. This has two benefits: first, you can meet with a certified mastectomy fitter to ensure you get the attention and care you deserve. You can also learn about products that may support you after breast surgery and, depending on your insurance plan, explore whether your health benefits may help cover the cost. Some insurance plans require you to purchase from an in-network or approved provider, so be sure to ask about your insurance requirements before purchasing.
Does Health Insurance Cover Mastectomy Bras?
Insurance coverage for mastectomy bras and breast forms varies depending on your insurance provider and individual plan. Certain insurance plans may cover mastectomy bras, breast forms, or prostheses, but coverage, reimbursement, product eligibility, and provider requirements can differ.
The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) provides certain protections for individuals who have undergone a mastectomy, but it does not mean that every mastectomy bra or breast form purchased from every provider will automatically be covered or reimbursed.
Some insurance plans may cover mastectomy bras billed under HCPCS code L8000, while others may have different requirements. Your plan may also limit the number of products covered or require a prescription, prior authorization, or purchase from an in-network or approved provider.
If you plan to use insurance, we recommend contacting your insurance provider before purchasing to confirm:
- Whether mastectomy bras or breast forms are covered under your plan
- Whether HCPCS code L8000 is covered
- How many products are covered
- Whether you need a prescription or prior authorization
- Whether you must purchase from an in-network or approved provider
- Whether an out-of-network purchase may be eligible for reimbursement
- What documentation you need to submit
AnaOno is out-of-network with many insurance companies and does not bill insurance directly. If you are considering purchasing directly from AnaOno and seeking reimbursement, check with your insurance provider before placing your order to confirm your plan's requirements. Reimbursement is not guaranteed.
If your insurance plan requires you to purchase from an in-network or approved provider, you can use our Store Locator to find a mastectomy boutique near you.
I Can’t Afford To Buy A Mastectomy Bra
Cancer is expensive, we know this. At AnaOno, we have several free mastectomy bra programs for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, and breast cancer patients in financial need. You can apply to receive a free breast cancer bra powered by Natrelle® if you have been diagnosed in the last 12 months, or apply to receive a sponsored breast cancer bra if you are in financial need powered by Pink Warrior Advocates. Both of these programs are designed to help ease the financial pain caused by cancer on so many families. You may also be able to use insurance benefits to help cover the cost of a mastectomy bra, depending on your individual plan. Medicare and other insurance plans have specific coverage and reimbursement requirements, so be sure to check your benefits directly with your insurance provider before purchasing.
Where To Buy Mastectomy Bra Inserts
Mastectomy bras are pocketed to hold breast forms, prosthetics, balance forms, and bra inserts. These pockets are designed to house forms that mimic the shape, size, and weight of the missing breast or missing breasts. Using mastectomy bra inserts is a choice, a fashion statement, an accessory and are not required if not desired. We love to support all chests in our mastectomy bra collections. We recommend to visit a certified mastectomy boutique to get fitted for a breast form that is right for you. You can also use F(oo)Bs® for a quick, easy, and lightweight option to breast forms and prosthetics.
How To Buy Mastectomy Bras On Amazon
Amazon can be a convenient option when shopping for a mastectomy bra, and you can find select AnaOno bras available on our Amazon storefront. When shopping online, be sure to look for mastectomy bra styles designed to meet your specific needs, whether you're looking for a pocketed bra to wear with a breast form or a bra designed for comfort and support after breast surgery.
If you plan to use insurance, be sure to check with your insurance provider before purchasing to confirm your coverage, reimbursement options, and whether you are required to purchase from an in-network or approved provider. Insurance requirements vary by plan, and purchasing a bra on Amazon does not guarantee that your purchase will be eligible for reimbursement.
Shop AnaOno on Amazon to explore our available styles.
Where To Purchase A Mastectomy Bra
You can find AnaOno mastectomy and breast cancer bras on our store locator page. Shopping at a specialty mastectomy boutique can be a helpful way to try different styles and find a comfortable fit after breast surgery. If you plan to use insurance, a boutique may also be able to help you understand your plan's requirements and determine whether they are an in-network or approved provider. Looking for a mastectomy bra for a unilateral mastectomy can be tricky and trying on different styles will help you find where you are most comfortable after your mastectomy surgery. A bilateral mastectomy may want to wear a bra that lays flat against your chest or has pocket bra options for breast forms, pads, and prosthetics.
What Stores Sell Mastectomy Bras
Many durable medical equipment (DME) providers, specialty mastectomy boutiques, and specialty lingerie stores carry mastectomy bras designed to meet different needs. If you plan to use insurance, ask your insurance provider whether you are required to purchase from an in-network or approved provider.
