About Magnolias
About Bra and Breast Forms
- What is a breast form?
- What is a post-mastectomy bra?
- Who should wear a breast form?
- Why should I wear a breast form?
- What if I am just a little uneven?
- When can I start wearing my breast form?
- Will insurance provide coverage for my breast form and post-mastectomy bra?
About Wigs/Cranial Prothesis
- Can people tell I'm wearing a wig?
- Is a wig comfortable?
- Will my wig slip off?
- How do I choose color?
- How do I choose style?
- What is the price of a wig?
- Is there a private area to try on my wig?
Q: What Does Magnolias Do?
A: Currently, Magnolias' primary focus is on women who have had cancer surgery and/or are experiencing hair loss from chemotherapy or radiation treatments. We offer breast forms and bras to help women who have had a mastectomy, more limited breast conserving surgery or reconstruction. Our trained and certified mastectomy fitters can help you achieve your ideal shape and symmetry whether your surgery was recent or many years ago.
Magnolias is not only for cancer survivors. If you are experiencing hair loss or are looking for a wig or hairpiece for any reason, our consultants will help you select the right solution from our extensive inventory of styles and colors.
Q: Where are You Located, and What are Your Hours?
A: We have two locations to serve you:
Southbridge Crossing Shopping Center
625 State Road 67 South
Mooresville, Indiana
(317) 831-3220
Hours:
Monday - Friday 10-6
Map
**Evenings and Saturday by appointment only.
Q: Do I Need an Appointment?
A: Appointments are encouraged but never required.
Q: What is a Breast Form?
A: After a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or reconstruction, an artificial breast form can be worn to regain symmetry. There are several different types of forms. The most popular and realistic is silicone gel. Foam and fiberfill is also available for post surgery. Some adhere directly to the chest area, while others are made to fit into pockets of post-mastectomy bras. Breast forms come in a variety of shapes and can also be custom made to fit your body. Partial forms, balance shapers, or equalizers are available for women who have had a lumpectomy or reconstruction to create symmetry with the remaining breast.
Q: What is a Post-Mastectomy Bra?
A: After breast surgery, some women will be able to wear their bras with few or no adjustments. If a woman chooses to wear a breast form that does not adhere to the skin, she will need to wear a special post-mastectomy bra with pockets for the breast form. There are many beautiful post-surgery bras to choose from. They now come in a variety of colorful choices. Most insurance companies will provide bras each year.
Q: Who Should Wear a Breast Form?
A: Any woman who has undergone breast cancer surgery and has had significant portions of the tissue removed is a candidate for a breast form, or balance shaper. Some women delay breast reconstruction for several months or years and will wear the breast form as a viable alternative. For women choosing not to undergo reconstruction, the breast form can be worn indefinitely. Most insurance companies replace the silicone forms every two years, or as medically necessary.
Q: Why Should I Wear A Breast Form?
A: The fitting of a breast form is not only for aesthetic appearance, but it is also a therapeutic measure that replaces the weight of the breast. When fitted with a breast form that matches in size to the remaining breast, the weight equilibrium of the body is kept in balance. Not wearing a breast form or wearing one that is heavier or lighter can result in the following:
- Spinal curvature
- Shoulder drop
- Muscle contracture (pain)
- Balance problems
Q: What if I am Just a Little Uneven?
A: After a lumpectomy or reconstruction, Balance Shapers can help you regain symmetry or adjust evenness even during reconstruction. Balance Shapers slip into a traditional bra to even out your figure in just the right places.
Q: When Can I Start Wearing My Breast Form?
A: Immediately after surgery, it is advisable to wear a fiberfill or foam form while you are in the healing process. This period is usually four to six weeks after surgery. After the chest area is healed completely, your physician will advise you to be fitted for your breast form and bras.
Q: Will Insurance Provide Coverage for My Breast Form and Post-Mastectomy Bras?
A: Most insurance companies will cover the cost of a breast form every two years, and post-mastectomy bras every year. It is advisable to get a prescription from your physician for these items. Most insurance companies have a set amount that they will cover for these products. In the event that you choose products that are more expensive, you may use your insurance allowable and pay the remainder out of pocket. The out of pocket expense can be used as a medical expense at tax time.
Q: Can People Tell I'm Wearing a Wig?
A: A good wig is indistinguishable from a natural head of hair. Whether you choose human or synthetic wigs, new state-of-the-art construction gives these wigs a realistic appearance. Synthetic wigs are very easy to care for. The style is baked into the fiber of the wig keeping the shape intact day after day.
Q: Is a Wig Comfortable?
A: The newest technology in wig caps makes them very comfortable. Many have a memory cap, made with a thinner, more resilient stretch material that molds to the shape of the head for a lighter, more secure fit.
Q: Will My Wig Slip Off?
A: A wig that fits your head is very secure. Look for tab or Velcro adjustments at the bottom band of the wig. These can be tightened or loosened for a proper fit.
Q: How Do I Choose Color?
A: If hair loss is a possibility in the future, save a swatch of your own hair to compare to color rings, if you want to stay with your own color. The newest wigs come in a variety of beautiful colors, as well as the newest highlighted shades.
Q: How do I Choose a Style?
A: Choose a style that fits your lifestyle and personality. If you would like to be adventurous, use this time to experiment with a new curly or straight look you have always wanted. There are many styles available for traditional, trendy, sporty, sophisticated, casual, contemporary, business, or just plain glamorous.
Q: What Is The Price Of a Wig?
A: Wigs have a variety of price levels. The average price of a good synthetic wig can range from $102.00 to $350.00 and up. At the present time, Medicare does not cover the cost of your wigs; however, some insurance carriers do cover this cost.
Q: Is There a Private Area To Try On My Wig?
A: Our boutique consultants will assist you with the fitting of your wig. We have a separate area for you to try on lots of wigs, hats, and turbans. Your comfort and privacy are our number one concern. We also have a private fitting room where you can try on the wigs alone if you prefer.