Q: I have recently had breast surgery. What products will I need?
A: That depends on your surgery type. After lumpectomy or partial removal, a silicone partial prosthesis can help with symmetry. After mastectomy, we offer post-surgical camisoles with pouches for drains and pockets for light forms. Once cleared by your doctor, we’ll fit you for a breast prosthesis and mastectomy bra.​

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Q: What options are available for lumpectomy & reconstruction patients?

A: Partial (overlay) prostheses slip into a pocketed bra to balance asymmetry. They come in various sizes, shapes, and thicknesses to match your needs.​​

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Q: What if my reconstructed breast is a different size than my natural side?
A: Weight changes affect breast volume. We may use a partial prosthesis on the smaller side to restore balance.​

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Q: What is lymphedema?
A: Lymphedema is swelling caused when lymph fluid can’t drain properly, often after lymph node removal. It usually affects the arms or legs.

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Q: How can I manage or prevent lymphedema?
A:

• Begin early treatment

• Use compression garments

• Gentle exercise & manual lymph drainage (when prescribed)

• Avoid heavy lifting, extreme temperatures, cuts or scratches

• Monitor for signs (redness, swelling)—call your doctor promptly

 

Q: Will my activities be restricted?
A: Generally, wearing a well-fitted breast form should not limit your usual activities. If you’re very active, choose a lighter form. We also carry swim-compatible forms. Always rinse forms after chlorine or saltwater exposure.

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Q: Why is wearing a properly fit prosthesis important?
A: A correctly fitted prosthesis restores balance and prevents postural issues—such as spinal curvature, shoulder drop, neck/back pain, or muscular tension.

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Q: How often should I replace my prosthesis or bras?
A: Most bras and forms last 1–2 years, or sooner with weight changes, wear-and-tear, or product degradation.

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Q: Do you offer adjustments or refittings?
A: Yes—we provide refitting services (e.g. after weight change or comfort issues).

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Q: Do I need an appointment?
A: Yes—fittings are by appointment only. Our hours are 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday–Thursday.

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Q: What should I expect at my first fitting?
A: You’ll meet your certified fitter, who asks about your surgery, lifestyle, and preferences. You’ll be measured, try on forms and bras, and find your best fit. First fittings typically take 45–60 minutes.

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Q: Is your shop a boutique?
A: No, we are not a boutique. PMV is located inside the Veterans Wellness Center of Alabama. Our founder, a proud veteran, partnered with the center’s leadership to provide low- to no-cost services for our PMV ladies through insurance and nonprofit support.

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We take a more customized approach than a typical boutique. Each woman is seen in a private room for a consultation that includes:

• Discussing your expectations and goals

• Measuring your band and cup size

• Reviewing and selecting products from our vendor catalog

• Choosing between mail delivery or in-store pickup

From there, we handle the rest. Once your products arrive, we’ll call you to schedule your fitting—unless you’ve chosen mail delivery, in which case your items ship straight to your door (with the option to come in for a fitting if you’d like).

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Q: Do you have products in the store?
A: No, we do not stock products in-store. Our process is unique and customized for each woman. All products are ordered directly from the manufacturer, with a typical turnaround time of 1–2 weeks depending on your delivery option. (Items may take longer if on back order.)

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Q: Can I bring someone with me?
A: Yes—feel free to bring a friend or family member for support. We want you to feel comfortable.

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Q: Can I try on my products when they arrive?
A: Yes, absolutely—we encourage it! Trying on your products ensures the best fit and comfort. The mail option is offered strictly for your convenience.

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Q: What insurance information should I bring?
A: Bring your current insurance card(s) (primary & secondary), ID, and, if possible, a prescription from your doctor. We’ll assist with claims and verify your benefits.

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Q: Will insurance cover my prosthesis and bras?
A: Many insurance plans cover new post-mastectomy products annually. You may have co-pays or deductibles. We’ll help you contact your insurer to check eligibility.

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Q: Do you accept major insurance?
A: Yes—we accept most major insurance carriers and will help you submit claims.

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Q: How much will Medicare pay?
A: Medicare typically covers up to 80% of their allowable amount. Check with your local Medicare carrier for details.

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Q: What if I don’t have insurance?
A: We’ll help you explore options. Our nonprofit, Gracie’s Health & Wellness Foundation, may assist when available (first-come, first-serve).

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Q: Can products be shipped directly to me?
A: Yes—through our vendor catalog, you can order mastectomy, lymphedema, and wellness products shipped to your home.

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Q: Is there a fee for rescheduling or cancellation?
A: Please notify us at least 24 hours before your appointment; late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee.

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​Q: Are virtual fittings available?
A: Yes! We offer virtual fittings as long as you have internet or Wi-Fi access, a measuring tape, and someone to help take your measurements. If you already know your size, we can focus on reviewing styles—but we don’t recommend this option unless you’re confident you only need to reorder products. For the best fit, we advise every woman to be professionally fitted at least once every two years, or sooner if needed.

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Q: What are your protection and privacy policies?
A: At Premier Mastectomy Vendors (PMV), your privacy is our top priority. We strictly follow HIPAA regulations to safeguard your protected health information (PHI). Your information is used only for treatment, payment, and essential healthcare operations—it will never be shared for marketing or non-permitted purposes without your consent.

👉 View our full Privacy Policy here

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