Pink Ribbon Mastectomy Boutique & Gift Shop http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com Just another Admin Pilot site Tue, 02 Nov 2010 15:11:11 +0000 en hourly 1 Testimonials http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/testimonials/ http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/testimonials/#comments Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:18:43 +0000 Shaggy http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.adminpilot.net/ “The care provided was very compassionate and understanding.  Couldn’t be more satisfied.”

“This was the second year I was provided with Pink Ribbon services and it was all done by phone and mail.  Very pleased.”

 “I keep remembering the first time we met, your kindness is….well….it’s simply unparalleled.  I was very impressed by you.”

 “You really are doing God’s work.  Thank you.”

 “You have created a beautiful place that has a very loving and caring atmosphere.  It is very clear that the women in the Wausau area love you and what you are doing for them.  Thank you for your business.  You are the greatest!”

 “I had a product in mind that I didn’t know even existed – I found it at the Pink Ribbon.”

 “I love your store!  I am always more comfortable with my body after a visit with you and your store.  Thanks.”

“It takes a long time to heal from cancer.  Feeling like a woman again is part of it.  Excellent garments, wonderful selections to choose from.  I will be back next year.  Thanks for all the help.”

“It is so nice to be treated with compassion and be offered so many products to choose from.  I will continue to recommend you to members of our support group and those I work with.”

“I was extremely satisfied with the shopping experience I had at the Pink Ribbon.  It was fun as well as informative and educational.  I look forward to shopping there again in the futuire.  Very helpful!”

 “We were very satisfied with the wonderful treatment we received.  Even though I live about 100 miles away I will be returning and recommending your shop.”

 “You are one of a kind – understanding, patient and one who imparts a sense of fun and enjoyment in your life and work.  Thank you for making my experience a comfortable one.”

]]> http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/testimonials/feed/ 0 Links http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/links/ http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/links/#comments Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:08:57 +0000 Shaggy http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.adminpilot.net/ American Cancer Society

National Cancer Institute

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation

Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization

National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations

Kids Konnected

KidsCope

Kid Support

National Cancer Institute Cancer Information Service

National Breast Cancer Coalition

Wellness Community

Breast Cancer.Org

National Lymphedema Network (NLN) ]]> http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/links/feed/ 0 About Us http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/about-us/ http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/about-us/#comments Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:59:44 +0000 Shaggy http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.adminpilot.net/
  • Mastectomy
  • Lumpectomy
  • Reconstruction
  • Augmentation
  • Reduction
Pink Ribbon offers a wide selection of products, including several different styles of prostheses and bras, mastectomy swimsuits, camisoles, and tank tops.  We also have wigs, turbans, hats, and wick-away sleepwear to accommodate the needs of women experiencing menopause.  We offer Lindy Skin, a line of skin care products that was developed with an advisory team of doctors and scientific experts, as well as Alra non-metallic deodorant, especially formulated shampoo, therapy lotion, and Liquid Silk, a water based lubricant for vaginal dryness.  In addition to these products we have many gift items available for purchase.

You can be assured that whenever new products are available, Pink Ribbon is the first to know about them. Often clients will suggest that we carry a certain item, and we are always grateful for the input. Outstanding customer service, a large inventory of products, and competitive prices are of paramount importance to us.

Pink Ribbon is very easy to find, has ample parking, and is handicapped and wheelchair accessible.

Our staff has sincere compassion for every customer and works one-on-one with each client to meet individual needs.  For quality service in a warm, comfortable atmosphere, contact us today!  Fittings are available daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or at any other time by appointment.  It is never an inconvenience for us to schedule an evening or weekend appointment. Our promise is to provide caring serivce and the best products available to the women of this community.

Contact Pink Ribbon for a quality breast prosthesis, bras or other supplies.]]> http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/about-us/feed/ 0 Products http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/products/ http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/products/#comments Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:57:45 +0000 Shaggy http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.adminpilot.net/ Women today have many options when it comes to the various types of post-mastectomy and lumpectomy prostheses, also called breast forms, available. Manufacturers make a wide selection of types, shapes, sizes, and colors.

The type of prosthesis required is determined by the amount of breast tissue that has been removed. Prostheses can be worn against the skin, inside the pocket of a prosthesis bra, or attached to the chest wall. Prosthetic devices are designed to look feminine while ensuring comfort.

]]> http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/products/feed/ 0 Customer Care http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/customer-care/ http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/customer-care/#comments Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:56:06 +0000 Shaggy http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.adminpilot.net/ Customer Care – The Fitting Experience

As the breast cancer patient leaves the hospital to complete the 4 to 6  weeks of recovery, it is understandable that she does so with physical discomfort and a great sense of loss. Pink Ribbon offers a warm, caring environment with a certified and experienced mastectomy fitter who understands the importance of restoring body image and self confidence.  

When scheduling your first appointment it is important that you plan an adequate amount of time so you can enjoy a relaxed fitting. Try to schedule at least an hour so we can call your insurance to see what you are eligible for and still have ample time for the actual fitting.  We also need to discuss the type of surgery you have had, as well as your lifestyle and favorite activities so we can determine what breast form is best for you.  You will be measured by our certified fitter who will then assist you in trying on breast forms and bras in your size to help you find the perfect fit and style.  You cannot wear a silicone breast prosthesis until your surgical site has completely healed, but in the interim there are foam and lightweight gel forms which can be worn with no complications whatsoever. 

It is a good idea to bring along a well-fitting garment so you can see how you will look in your favorite clothes.  It is not necessary to schedule an additional doctor’s appointment in order to obtain a prescription, because we can request one from your physician and receive it via fax.  If you already have one, however, bring it along. After the fitting is completed you will receive the mastectomy products of your choice on the same day. 

Occasionally there may a back-ordered or specialty item that we need to order, but this is not the norm – We have a very large inventory on hand so you do not have to pick up your products at a later date.  We will then do both the primary and the secondary billings for you.  We do not take any money up front.  Medicare pays 80 percent and any supplemental plan usually covers the remaining 20 percent. If there is a remainder owed you will receive an invoice from us after the insurance company sends out an explanation of benefits and the appropriate deductions have been applied.

 Pink Ribbon is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  but if these hours are not convenient for you, we offer fittings and sales visits at the boutique by appointment between the hours of 8 a.m. to and 8 p.m. every day.  Simply call us today to schedule your appointment.]]> http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/customer-care/feed/ 0 FAQs http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/faqs/ http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/faqs/#comments Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:45:41 +0000 Shaggy http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.adminpilot.net/ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your Certified Mastectomy Fitter is a great source of information about your post-surgery options and can provide insight and guidance on what to expect and if a particular breast form is right for you.

WHAT IS A BREAST PROSTHESIS?

An external breast prosthesis is an artificial breast form that is worn after a mastectomy. Choosing to wear a breast prosthesis is a personal decision. Many women select this option because they want to have the same symmetry when wearing clothing as they had before their surgery. A prosthesis offers other advantages as well: it protects a woman’s chest and surgical scars, helps balance posture, anchors the bra on the side of the mastectomy and keeps it from shifting side to side or riding up, and helps prevent problems with curvature of the spine, shoulder drop, and muscular pain in the neck and back. Breast prostheses are made from several different types of material (such as silicone gel, form and fiberfill) that feel similar to natural breast tissue and are usually weighted so they feel the same as the remaining breast. A prosthesis fits snugly into the pocket of a postmastectomy bra, which is fitted with pockets on the inside to hold the device in place.

Types of prosthetic devices:

External silicone breast prosthesis. This type of device is made of silicone and has excellent compatibility with the skin and body. The weight, softness, movement and resilience are close to that of the natural breast. It has a natural propensity for conducting heat, allowing the prosthesis to assume one’s own natural body temperature immediately. It is kind to the skin, well tolerated by the body, and resembles the natural breast in weight and consistency. It is an externally worn product and is completely safe. A silicone prosthesis is weighted to help prevent shoulder drop and poor balance but is not heavy enough to be uncomfortable. A lightweight, buoyant silicone form specifically for swimming is also available. This form can safely be worn in hot tubs or saunas and can easily be inserted into the pocket of a mastectomy swimsuit.

Nonsilicone breast prosthesis. This prosthesis is a lightweight breast form made of foam or fiberfill and can be worn immediately following a mastectomy with no complications whatsoever. It can also be worn during exercise and in hot weather.

Postsurgical soft-form camisole. A postsurgical camisole is made of a soft, stretchy material with lace elastic straps and is often worn immediately following a mastectomy, lumpectomy, radiation therapy to the chest, or following reconstructive breast surgery. A lightweight, removable soft breast form can be placed into a pocket in the camisole.

Partial breast prosthesis. Also called an equalizer, shell, shaper or enhancer, this device is made of foam, fiberfill, or silicone. It’s designed to be worn over a woman’s own breast tissue to create a fuller appearance after a part of her breast is removed, (as in the case of a lumpectomy). Shapers are also used as an enhancer during reconstruction, to adjust for weight gain or loss after reconstruction, or to offset imbalance that results from the natural aging process.

I HAD A LUMPECTOMY OR RECONSTRUCTION, AND MY BRA NO LONGER FITS PROPERLY. IS THERE SOMETHING AVAILABLE TO HELP EVEN OUT MY FIGURE?

Shapers/Shells are the perfect solution for women who experience asymmetry after a lumpectomy or reconstruction. The shaper will even out your figure just where you need it.

WHY DO I NEED TO BE SPECIALLY FITTED FOR A BREAST FORM AND BRA?

Breast shapes, skin tones, surgery and body types vary. A Certified Mastectomy Fitter has been specially trained to help you choose a breast form that best matches your natural breast and will help restore balance and a positive body image. The fitter will also measure you for a post-surgery bra to hold your breast form in place and talk to you about the benefits of a properly fitting bra and breast form.

WILL WEARING A BREAST FORM RESTRICT MY ACTIVITIES?

Not at all. You can play tennis, golf, run or participate in any sport you’ve always enjoyed. You may want to increase your wardrobe of breast forms to include a swim form for water activities and a leisure form for times when you’re relaxing at home.

HOW DO I KNOW IF A LIGHTWEIGHT SILICONE BREAST FORM IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Many women find that a lightweight form is more comfortable. Women with medical conditions such as arthritis, lymphedema or osteoporosis may benefit from a lightweight breast form. Your fitter will help you choose the breast form that is right for your lifestyle, body type and surgery.

MY FORM FEELS HEAVY. IS IT TOO LARGE?

The first thing to evaluate is the fit of the bra. Bras have a lifespan of three to six months of constant use before they need to be replaced. If the bra doesn’t adequately support the breast form and hold it snugly against the chest wall, then the straps of the bra begin to support more weight from the form than necessary, pulling down on the shoulder area. This results in the form feeling heavy.

CAN I WEAR MY BREAST FORM WHEN I SWIM?

Yes, you can wear most breast forms in the swimming pool, ocean or hot tub, however it may weigh down your swimsuit. If you swim regularly, you may want to ask your fitter about a form made especially for swimming. Whether you wear your regular breast from or a swimform during your water activities, be sure to clean it thoroughly afterwards to remove chlorine and salt residue from the form.

WHEN SHOULD I BE FITTED FOR A PROSTHESIS?

After the scar tissue of surgery has completely healed and the swelling has subsided, fitting for a silicone prosthesis can take place. This healing process typically takes between four and eight weeks. In the interim, there are soft, comfortable leisure bras, camisoles and postmastectomy garments available which can be worn with a foam or fiberfill breast form with no complications whatsoever. Fitting is done by a certified fitter who is specially trained to fit women for a breast prosthesis in a warm and caring environment. At the first fitting appointment it is recommended that women wear a form-fitting garment such as a knit top, so they can see how the shape and size of the breast form matches their other breast. It is also important to plan adequte time — up to an hour, for discussing all the options with the fitter. Body type, breast shape and lifestyle are all areas that should be considered. Any additional questions or concerns with regards to insurance, billing, prior authorizations, and obtaining a prescription can also be addressed at this time.

HOW LONG WILL MY PROSTHESIS LAST?

Most breast prostheses are warranted against manufacturer’s defects for two years from the date of purchase. The warranty does not cover damage to the form from punctures or from erosion to the outer layer due to perfume or lotions. With proper use, care and storage, your breast form should provide years of comfortable wear, although it is still a good idea to see a Certified Mastectomy Fitter at least once a year to have your fit evaluated, as women’s bodies change with age and weight.

HOW DO I CARE FOR MY BREAST FORM?

Skin oils can break down the outer layer of a breast form and shorten its useful life. I recommend that your breast form be hand-washed with mild soap and water and patted dry daily. It should be stored in the specially-designed breast form box. It is extremely durable with normal use, although care needs to be taken with sharp objects, pets and jewelry.

WHAT IS A POSTMASTECTOMY BRA?

A postmastectomy bra is a garment that is specially designed with a pocket which securely holds the prosthesis in place. Postmastectomy bras are soft, comfortable and pretty, and offer a relaxed support that makes them easy to wear. Choosing and wearing the right-sized bra is important. A poorly-fitted bra can cause shoulder, neck and back tension, sagging breasts, as well as uncomfortable bulges around your breasts and upper arms. A bra that fits best will depend upon style, manufacturer and fabric, so be prepared to try on several bras before you make your final selections. A trained and certified fitter may take measurements and use a formula to work out the bra size. This is helpful as a guide, but more importantly, finding the perfect supportive bra will involve trying on many different bras and having hands-on checks to make sure the shoulder straps, bra underband, and cups fit perfectly.

Things to look out for when trying on a bra:

Shoulder straps — should fit closely to the body without cutting in. They should lift the breasts so that they sit on the chest wall, midway between the shoulder and elbow, and stay in place when you raise your arms above your head.

Front and back bands — should lie close to the body and be the same level at the front and back.

Cups — should be filled by the breast without any areas of loose fabric, or any breast bulging out of the side or top, and high at the sides to cover the breast.

Bras rarely last longer than a few months, especially if you wash them regularly in a washing machine. Hand washing can prolong their lifespan, and helps to keep the shape and color too.

Be prepared to replace your bras each year, and always re-measure after losing or gaining weight, or following menopause. This way you can be sure your breasts will always be properly supported.

DOES INSURANCE COVER MASTECTOMY SUPPLIES?

Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance carriers will cover the cost of mastectomy supplies as long as women have a prescription from their doctor. Generally, Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance plans will pay for one silicone breast prosthesis every two years, up to two foam, leisure or swimforms every year, four mastectomy bras per year, two postmastectomy camisoles the first year after surgery, and two permaform bras every year. Most insurance companies do not cover mastectomy swimsuits. Women should check with their insurance carrier before the fitting to determine what is covered under their plan. If you are unsure about what you are entitled to, I can make the phone call for you. I can also obtain a prescription from your doctor if you do not have one readily available.

Pink Ribbon Mastectomy Boutique is contracted with most major insurance companies including Medicare and Medicaid, so most women pay very little, if any, out-of-pocket expense.

WHAT OTHER PREVENTIVE CARE IS COVERED BY MEDICARE?

Medicare covers a small, but essential, range of preventive care services regardless of whether you have met your Part B deductible.

80% of the cost of one screening mammogram a year (every 12 months) for women 40 years and older, regardless of whether they have met their Part B deductible.

Medicare will also pay for one baseline mammogram for women 35 – 39 years of age.

100% of the cost of one Pap smear lab test every two years (24 months) for all women with Medicare (It covers the usual 80% of the doctor visit to collect the Pap smear).

Note: If you are considered at high risk for cervical or vaginal cancer, for eg:

1. You have had a sexually transmitted disease

2. Your mother was given the drug diethyistilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy

3. You are of childbearing age and have had an abnormal Pap test in the past 36 months

Medicare will cover the cost of one Pap smear a year (every 12 months).

When you get your Pap smear, Medicare will also pay 80% of the cost of a pelvic exam and a clinical breast exam.

80% of the cost of one bone mass measurement every two years (24 months) after you pay your annual Part B deductible, if you are at risk for osteoporosis (eg., have a family history of the disease, have certain conditions, such as thyroid disorders, or have taken certain medications for a prolonged period of time, such as steroid anti-inflammatories).

Will also cover follow-up measurements if your doctor prescribes them.

Medicare covers 80% of the following mastectomy supplies if your doctor prescribes them:

One silicone breast prosthesis every 2 years

Up to 4 mastectomy bras per year

Up to 2 lightweight leisure or swimforms per year

Up to 2 postmastectomy camisoles (within one year after surgery)

Up to 2 permaform bras per year ]]> http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/faqs/feed/ 0 header http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/2010/10/29/header/ http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/2010/10/29/header/#comments Fri, 29 Oct 2010 18:07:01 +0000 Shaggy http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.adminpilot.net/?p=8 http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/2010/10/29/header/feed/ 0 header2 http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/2010/10/29/header2/ http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/2010/10/29/header2/#comments Fri, 29 Oct 2010 18:06:30 +0000 Shaggy http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.adminpilot.net/?p=6 http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/2010/10/29/header2/feed/ 0 Home http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/ http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.com/#comments Fri, 29 Oct 2010 16:42:24 +0000 Shaggy http://pinkribbonmastectomyboutique.adminpilot.net/?page_id=2 Welcome to a unique site for the woman with special needs. Pink Ribbon Mastectomy Boutique & Gift Shop in Wausau, Wisconsin is a full service, post-mastectomy boutique that is devoted to helping women who are undergoing or have had breast cancer surgery.

Our staff of professional, American Board For Certification certified fitters aim to help women look and feel beautiful, attractive, alluring, confident, and comfortable at this difficult time in their lives. We believe that it is important for women to have choices and to be informed about the many different products available to them.

Pink Ribbon features an extensive inventory of specialized post-mastectomy and breast cancer surgery bras and breast forms (breast prostheses) in all shapes, styles, and sizes.  We also offer a comprehensive selection of mastectomy swimsuits, camisoles, wigs, turbans, and hats. Our selection and prices cannot be beat!

Pink Ribbon also carries a variety of breast cancer recovery and preparation products that women may use before and after their procedures to enhance their comfort during the healing journey, treat their symptoms, and speed up their recovery.

Pink Ribbon Mastectomy Boutique & Gift Shop provides the best and most innovative items available on the market today.  You can always count on us for great customer service, a large inventory of products, and competitive prices.  Visit us today and get the selection and service you deserve.

Our Products Include:

  • Breast prostheses
  • Lymphedema products
  • Compression garments
  • Lindy skin chemotherapy products
  • Hats
  • Scarves
  • Turbans
  • Wigs
  • Pink ribbon gifts
  • Pins, mugs, purses, and socks
  • Mastectomy bras and camisoles


We Carry:
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