Informational brochure on post-op breast care | Anita care
Fit
Quality
Feeling good
Dear reader,
My name is Paula, and we have something in common: we are breast cancer patients. Maybe you have already gone through breast surgery – like me – or maybe you haven’t yet.
was in the middle of my breast cancer treatment, and I sourced my post-op compression underwear from there.
Over time, I learned that this illness is a process, during which needs develop and change. I no longer adapt to this illness – quite the opposite. I have adapted it to my needs and my life, which I have reclaimed bit by bit. Today, I use prosthetics, underwear and accessories, because I don’t want to compromise on looks or function.
Anita cares. that means a lot to me:
Anita cares may no longer be my own, but which let me feel healthy and whole in everyday life.
Anita cares. my scars, and about ensuring proper lymphatic drainage to reduce the risk of lymphatic congestion.
Anita cares. to go through life every day without feeling that I am different or weak.
Anita cares. Not just about my breasts, but about my needs in general to ensure that I can live a full, healthy life.
understanding the needs of women going through this illness. This brochure is all about showing you how you can
for you and your individual situation. I take care of myself.
Anita cares.
Enjoy your read!
The anatomy of the female breast
It often accompanies us as a matter of course - but we usually know very little about it. For this reason, we asked our expert, PD Dr Geishauser, to give us an understanding of anatomy.
The breast is a complex and fascinating organ that not only plays an important role in the female anatomy, but also impresses with its multi-layered structure and function.
Firstly, you can see the surface of the breast: it is formed by the skin and the aerola.
The lower boundary is formed by the inframammary line (infra - below, mamma - breast). Here and in the centre, the breast is held in place and shaped by connective tissue ligaments - fasciae. Towards the top and sides, it becomes more mobile and can follow the movements of the shoulder.
Under the skin there is initially a layer of fatty tissue. This is known as subcutaneous fatty tissue or subcutis (sub = under, cutis = skin).
This layer is bounded downwards by a more or less thick layer of connective tissue, the subcutaneous fascia.
Further in, a mixture of glandular tissue, connective tissue and fatty tissue follows.
The glandular tissue in the breast is not evenly distributed. There is a higher proportion of glandular tissue in the upper and outer quadrants of the breast. This is also the reason why breast cancer is statistically more common here.
The breast is criss-crossed by nerves, vessels and lymph vessels.
Towards the nipple, these nerves and vessels run in thin layers of connective tissue, the horizontal septum.
The milk ducts (ductules) originate from the glandular lobules in which the milk is several main milk ducts in the area of the nipple.
The areola surrounds the nipple.
The nipple and areola together are also known as the nipple-areola complex (MAK for short).
The blood supply to the breast with veins and arteries is essentially via three systems:
From the side and from the centre via branches of the intercostal vessels and from above via the so-called thoraco-acromial vessels.
The lymphatic vessels to the axillary lymph nodes on the one hand and to the mediastinal lymph nodes located behind the sternum on the other.
after your surgery Gentle compression
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All the care you need
Being prepared
Paula: „I would strongly recommend that you obtain your post-op compression underwear before your surgery, so that you have it on hand immediately after. Your medical practitioner or specialist retailer can recommend what you need for immediately after surgery, both in terms of comfort and functionality (for example with a front fastener).“
Breast surgery is part of acute breast cancer therapy, which means that post-surgery care is also a big part of that. Depending on the type of surgery you are facing, you may be offered the following care options:
Compression bandages ensure stabilisation, immobilisation and compression of the surgical site after ablation.
Paula’s Tip:
After breast conservation therapy (BCT/partial mastectomy), compression bras with seamless, moulded cups and a large compression area are the best choice for you.
After reconstruction with implants, a so-called ‘Stuttgart belt’ can prevent the implants from slipping through targeted compression. We also offer softer compression bras, which are suitable for use after reconstruction with autologous tissue, for example.
Prostheses and compensatory cups need surgery, because your breasts will still change during the healing process. A textile lightweight prosthesis is best for post-operative care immediately after surgery. You can later replace it with a custom silicone prosthesis, also called a breast form.
post-surgery care options.
I chose darker colours for my post-op care supplies, because there is always a possibility of some bleeding.
Initial care
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Anita care
We are here for you right from the start
Immediately after surgery, you will need primary care bras and prostheses made of soft and skin-friendly materials. These fabrics protect sensitive skin and can also be worn during radiotherapy. The special cut of our primary care bras as well as the higher décolleté and higher bridge give the lightweight textile prosthesis a secure hold and offer perfect visual balance right from the start.
Optimal aftercare and good primary basis for future care with silicone prostheses, after your wounds have healed.
For gentle and lightweight primary care and loungewear.
Freedom of movement
How to help prevent and relieve lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is a swelling caused by congestion of lymphatic fluid, when more lymph fluid is produced than can be removed. Lymphoedema often occurs in the arms and the legs. A common cause is surgery in the breast area, radiation therapy, or removal of lymph nodes during cancer.
Preventive measures:
A mastectomy bra should be fitted by a healthcare professional so that the straps don’t cut in, and pressure and friction points are avoided.
Avoid tight clothing that is constricting on the operated side. Ensure good blood supply to the affected area, and adjust your skin care accordingly (skin elasticity).
Remember to lift your arm from time to time (above the heart), e.g. while watching TV.
Avoid cuts and scratches.
Choose a bra with a soft and wide under-bust band and wide straps that don’t roll up.
Carry your handbag with the shoulder strap on the unoperated side, or use a small backpack.
Blood pressure measurements, injections and blood samples should not be carried out on the operated side.
The preventive wearing of Anita care Lymph O Fit™ products can help to reduce the risk and severity of post-operative lymphoedema and lymph congestion.
Tip:
Tip after ablation:
the ‘London’ lymphatic relief a prosthesis pocket in the cup.
Lymph O Fit™
Lymph O Fit™ is a specially developed lymphatic relief material characterised by an innovative nubbed structure on the inside. The synergistic effect of gentle compression and micro-massage can blood circulation in the affected areas, and the prevention of oedema.
The gentle 3D compression stimulates the surrounding tissue and relieves potential muscle tension. Our products are used for the adjunctive and supportive treatment of lipoedema, lymphoedema, oedema, post-operative recovery, thrombosis prevention and other vascular problems. The application of the Lymph O Fit™ principle is available as a bra, glove, armsleeve, bolero and tights. support for the breast prosthesis.
more information
“Something that will suit me and my new life”
New body image
Gorgeous lingerie that suits me!
Paula: „After surgery, my time of regeneration began. It was time for my wounds to heal, to start being physically
to my new body image. My primary care
Soft and breathable materials, combined with a cut to cater for the operated breast, ensure secure hold and offer high comfort. During that time it is also a good idea to get a prosthesis or
Good post-surgery underwear doesn’t feel like a compromise. It feels like a new companion for a phase in life when activity once again becomes important.
every day. I wanted a good design with functionality to support my unique needs, and my operated breast.“
We recommend choosing prosthetics and underwear at the same time, as both products complement each other’s functionality. Make sure to arrange a consultation appointment with your breast care clinic or specialist retailer.
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The support you need
The TriProVita-System by Anita care
Breast prostheses, the right underwear and swimwear: Together, these three components form the TriProVita system.
the Anita care mastectomy bras and customised, needs-oriented, and can be prostheses.
As one of the very few manufacturers
the most part manufactured in our own product concepts are made in Germany.
Lingerie
Breast forms
swimwear
Carefully selected pocket material. In cooperation with „Discovering Hands“a training initiative for the blind and visually impaired.
The most important quality criterion
Your safety and comfort
Together, all the Anita care specialist bras, breast prostheses and compensatory cups form a perfect whole, because they are made for each other. When designing these products, we consider the various post-op scar areas, and possible skin and tissue conditions. The result: A fashionable design with perfect functionality after breast surgery.
A stretchy and high-cut décolleté with a comfortable bridge ensure secure hold for the prosthesis – no underwire needed.
Higher-cut armholes to conceal scarring
Wide, soft underbust band for extra comfort
Comfort straps that are adjustable in the back, and are wider or narrower depending on the cup size
We take great care in the selection of quality-tested fabrics – and in particular for the sweat-wicking material of the prosthesis pockets
All materials we use are completely harmless to your health (with OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 our non-medical product lines of Anita active, Anita since 1886, and ROSA FAIA – adapted to the needs of post-op breast care
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Anita care „Lingerie Whisper & more“ - Review
Cancer changes everything. In life with and after cancer, women come to terms with their bodies. First and foremost health, then well-being and aesthetics. None of this has to be either-or, but all of it is a process. We want to illustrate this process and invited six women who have experienced breast cancer to ANITA‘s headquarters in Brannenburg: for a chance to get to know each other. The „Lingerie Whipser“.
Paula: „The Lingerie Whisper in Brannenburg in January 2024 was a wonderful experience in many ways. In the pictures you can see six women in Anita care lingerie with different breast cancer experiences. You don‘t see that? I don‘t see it either, even though I‘m one of them myself.
It‘s the fact that our underwear is adapted to our needs.
It‘s because we don‘t want it to be obvious at all times.
"We came as patients, stayed as colleagues and left as friends."
It‘s because we take our medical aids for granted as part of our clothing.
Above all, it’s because we felt comfortable and natural with each other and were able to distance ourselves from our medical records.
We know that beautiful lingerie cannot take away cancer, but it can be a comforting way to reconnect with a part of the body that has become
I wish for those affected not to perceive their scars as imperfections, but to look in the mirror
opportunity to see oneself as a human being again. Not just as a patient.“
Click here for the blog post:
From left to right: Alu, Carmen, Anna-Lena, Gabi, Paula, Rita
Anita care breast prostheses & compensatory cups
Gentle support for body and soul
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We offer a wide range of products for post-operative care after breast surgery: textile lightweight prostheses for primary care immediately following surgery, as well as compensatory cups and silicone full prostheses.
The natural basic material silicone is very skin-friendly, water-repellent, and temperature-resistant. Silicone compensatory cups can also balance out natural size differences in the breast volume of natural breasts. You don’t have to worry about anything squeezing or pinching. Anita care breast prosthetics are developed based on the feedback of affected women, extensively tested, and then manufactured in our own factories,
with much of the production done by hand. Our experience and expertise will accompany you on your journey.
Anita care breast prostheses and compensatory cups are designed to mimic the natural breast in shape and feel. Our care tip: Simply hand wash your silicone prosthesis with a mild soap or when you are taking a shower; avoid any pointy or sharp-edged objects that could damage the material.
For swimming or the sauna, we recommend our specialist ‘Pure Fresh’ aqua prostheses.
Please visit www.anita.com/breastcare for more information about prosthetics
You will receive a textile lightweight prosthesis right after surgery for primary care. You can then take your time and seek consultation about which silicone breast form will be right for you. Tip:
Triangular form Tapered triangular shape Drop triangular shape Asymmetrical
Drop-shaped Trapezium form
Textile backing
Fillable Flex-Gap
“I no longer feel like a patient. I feel confident in my clothing.”
STYLE Rosemary
No more holding back. Only solutions. That’s me now
Paula: „My own experience with breast
I certainly won’t deny my cancer experience, but I am more than my diagnosis and I don‘t want to be
Embellished with lace, unicoloured or I was completely surprised about the requirements, and all that without any
I no longer need aftercare, I do my bit them, and I am back in charge of my own Anita cares.
Paulas Tip:
Did you know that you can get matching briefs to go with your specialist bra? This will add to the feeling that you are getting back to yourself and your own clothing again – and not just having to think like a patient.
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Paulas Tip:
Did you know that you can purchase care bras and coordinating briefs from specialist retail shops?
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Anita care bras
superior comfort.
more about our great range of Anita care specialist bras
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Anita care beachwear
Fits like a glove and
Swimsuits, bikinis, tankinis, and elegant accessories – Anita care swimwear offers a wide range of products that takes into consideration all the latest fashion trends and keeps our designers busy.
You will become a fan as well, when you see the premium
about our ongoing quality control for all Anita care swimwear.
You can’t see the special functionality of Anita care beachwear styles – but you can definitely feel it. The specialist cuts, hand-picked materials, and the design made for freedom of movement makes this swimwear excellently suited for water sports. The fabric of the Anita care swimwear ensures an aquadynamic flow between the prosthesis and the garment, so that any distortions of the prosthesis are prevented.
Anita care comfort at its best:
The décolleté is cut a little higher to ensure perfect support and concealment of scars
The side opening of the prosthesis pockets
Adjustable straps guarantee optimal functionality
The special materials and cuts ensure that the prosthesis is never visible.
The Anita care ‘Pure Fresh’ aqua our beachwear
Have a look at our specialist swimwear at www.anita.com/carebeach
Paula’s Tip:
Wearing your prosthesis while exercising will give your chest and shoulder area a little bit of a workout too (gentle weights).
Anita care sports bra
Ready for a new life
You have overcome probably the biggest challenge you will ever face! Sports are a good way to get your strength back and help your body to regenerate and heal. Some gentle yoga exercises help loosen up the muscles of your torso, and let you focus on the areas of your body that have been under the most stress.
Specialist sports bras by Anita care give you the support you need. The breathable and moisture-regulating fabric, the ergonomically shaped and non-slip straps will give you the while working out.
Choose the matching Anita active massage sports tights ‘Dubai’ with 3D dot texture for a massaging and toning effect.
We take responsibility
Production in our own manufacturing facilities
ANITA – a family business since 1886.
We have taken responsibility for our employees, our products, and our environment for over 135 years. It is important for us to embody this attitude in all our daily operations.
We interact fairly and respectfully with each other, cultivating a positive culture in all areas including within our company. No matter where in the world – at our company headquarters in Upper Bavaria, or at any of our international subsidiaries or production sites. We are one of the few manufacturers who design and manufacture our products almost exclusively in our own production sites –worldwide and in line with highest European quality standards. We want to ensure that we can continue to drive development at the same high level now
and in future. That is why we work closely
teams and in close partnership with specialist retailers and – most importantly – with you, our customers. A model that doesn’t feel any different than a ‘normal’ item of clothing – that requires passion and a keen eye for details. We do our best to make sure our products will add to your quality of life – now and always.
Anita cares.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued trust in ANITA.
Georg Weber-Unger, Johannes Weber-Unger, Georg Weber-Unger (jun.)
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Your specialist retailer
In good hands
The type of bra, lymphatic relief product, or compensation shape most suitable for you will always depend on your personal requirements.
Your specialist retailer has the right selection and can offer expert advice. The tried and tested ANITA size system will ensure right size for you.
Take some to time to explore the various options for prostheses, specialist bras or swimwear, with advice from our retailers.
An ANITA-approved specialist retailer will display our ‘Anita care Center of Excellence’ label at the door or inside the shop.
