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STUDIO RANGE
RECOVERY & LIFESTYLE
FITTING ROOM
Email STUDIO:
info@breastcarewa.com.au

Contact STUDIO:
(08) 9361 1300
A-Z LIST
Surgeries, Conditions & Terms

A-Z LIST terms are provided to aid in the selection, use and understanding of Products shown on this website. Plain English Descriptions of medical terms are only a layperson's guide for identifying garment options - they are not a medical description or option. When searching, terms can be filtered by the following categories:

CONDITION   Such as lymphoedema, hernia and pregnancy, where a garment can aid treatment, management and wellbeing.

DEFINED TERM   Such as what it means when a product is classified as Available, Seasonal or By Order, and terms used in Terms & Conditions documents.

PRODUCT TERM   Such as Type (Body Suit, Compression Bra, Breast Form), Style (body coverage), Components (fasteners, straps) and Performance (Free of harmful chemicals), Body Measurements and Sizing Chart.

MEDICAL TERM   Such as Apron, Augmentation, Bilateral, Incision and Symmetry that are related to listed Surgeries or Conditions.

SURGERY   Such as Augmentation Mammoplasty (Breast Augmentation), Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) and Gynecomastia Surgery (Male Breast Reduction) where a garment can aid recovery or lifestyle and wellbeing after surgery.

Terms can also be sorted alphabetically by Commonly Called (layperson term) or by Technical Term (likely medical terminology).

To refine a search, use any or all of the following:

Filter by Category   Click on the 'Filter by' dropdown menu.
Sort in Alphabetical Order   Click on either the 'Common Called' or 'Technical Term' heading.
Filter Alphabetically   Click on a letter in the sidebar menu.

Filter by:
Plain English Description
A
Tummy Tuck
Abdominoplasty
Tightening loose muscles and removing fat and excess loose skin from the abdomen.
Garment Suggestions
Tummy Tuck
Above Knee
Above Knee Measurement
Around the leg, just above the knee cap.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Symmastia
Acquired Symmastia
A complication of breast implants when the skin and muscle between the breasts over the sternum (breastbone) detaches and the two pockets of tissue that hold implants form one pocket (Congenital Symmastia is a rare condition resulting in webbing between the natural breasts).
Product Suggestion
Compression Bras
Adjuvant
Adjuvant
Treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy that is undertaken after surgery.
Ankle
Ankle Measurement
Around the widest part, just above the foot.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate Product and see the measuring illustration.
Anti-Embolism Stocking
Anti-Embolism Stocking
A compression stocking with graduated pressure, highest at the ankle and lower towards the knee, designed to minimise the risk of blood pooling in the legs during surgery or hospitalisation.
Product Suggestion
Sleeves & Stockings
Mini Tummy Tuck
Apronectomy
Removing a wedge of fat and skin from the lower abdomen.
Garment Suggestions
Tummy Tuck
Swim Form
Aquatic Breast Prothesis
A water-resistant breast form worn in a pocketed bather to recreate the look and feel of the breast line after a mastectomy.
Product Suggestion
Swim Forms
Areola
Areola
Darker pigmented skin around the nipple.
Areola Reduction
Areola Reduction Surgery
Reducing the size of the darker pigmented skin around the nipple. Often done in combination with other breast surgery.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Lift
Breast Reduction
Artificial Nipples
Artificial Nipples
Temporary rub-on tattoo nipples or stick-on silicone nipples that recreate the look of the nipple on a reconstructed breast.
Product Suggestion
Nipples
Drain
Aspirate
Inserting a needle under the skin and attaching it to a syringe to remove a collection of fluid.
Asymmetry
Asymmetry
When one side is noticeably different from the other (The body tends to have a slight but not noticeable asymmetry).
Augment
Augment
Increase the size.
Breast Augmentation
Augmentation Mammoplasty
Using breast implants to increase the size and shape of the breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Implants
Breast Implants
Augmentation Mammoplasty
Using breast implants to increase the size and shape of the breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Implants
Sizing Chart (AU)
Australian (AU) Sizing Chart
A sizing chart that uses commonly accepted Australian ‘Sizing Terms’ and ‘Body Dimensions’.
See Sizing Chart.
ARTG
Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is the Australian Government body responsible for regulating therapeutic goods. This includes medical devices (compression garments).
The Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) is where a compression garment or other medical device is listed after assessment.

Autologous
Autologous
Transfer of tissue from one part of the body to another part of the body of the same person.
Fat Grafting Breast Reconstruction
Autologous Breast Reconstruction
Fat, usually harvested from the abdomen, thighs, lower back or hips and then used to recreate the breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
Fat Grafting
Autologous Fat Transfer
Transferring fatty tissue from one part of the body to another to change the shape of receiving part.
Available
Available
Armpit
Axilla
The armpit or area adjacent to the armpit.
Axillary Clearance
Axillary Lymph Node Dissection
Removing several or all of the lymph nodes from the armpit.
Cording
Axillary Web Syndrome
A tight, uncomfortable cord-like structure that can be felt (and sometimes seen) in the armpit and often extending down the arm.
B
Back lift
Back Fat Reduction Surgery
Reducing excess skin and fat from the back around the bra band line.
Garment Suggestions
Back Lift
Lower Body Lift
Belt Lipectomy or Circumferential Body Lift
Reducing large skin folds and fat from the lower abdomen, hips and upper buttock.
Garment Suggestions
Body Lift
Benign
Benign
Not cancerous.
Bilateral
Bilateral
Affecting both the left and right sides of the body.
Biocompatibility
Biocompatibility
Capability of a prosthesis to exist in harmony with body tissue without causing deleterious changes.
Biopsy
Biopsy
Removal of cells or tissue from the body to determine the presence or extent of disease (cancer).
Body Glue
Body Adhesive
A roll-on adhesive designed to hold bra straps, sleeves and stockings, and bather straps in place when moving about.
Product Suggestion
Roll-on Adhesive
Body Lift
Body Contouring Surgery
Reducing large skin folds and fat from the lower abdomen, hips, upper buttock and outer upper thighs.
Garment Suggestions
Body Lift
Full Body Lift
Body Contouring Surgery
Reducing large skin folds and fat from the lower abdomen, hips, upper buttock and outer upper thighs.
Garment Suggestions
Body Lift
Weight Loss Surgery
Body Contouring Surgery
Reducing large skin folds and fat from the arms, back, lower abdomen, hips, upper buttock and/or thighs.
Garment Suggestions
Weight Loss Surgery
Cover
Body Coverage
The extent to which a garment covers the body. For a compression garment, this would be the area needed to provide compression to, and just beyond, the area(s) of the body involved in the surgery. For a fashion bra, this would indicate width of the band, height of the cleavage and the like.
More Information
Garment Anatomy
Body Suit
Body Suit
A compression garment covering the torso. Whilst the straps extend over the shoulder, effective body cover is typically from the upper chest to the groin. Style variations include addition of coverage to the arm and/or leg.
Product Suggestion
Body Suits
Band
Bra Band
Material that wraps around the chest to support the weight of the breast and hold the bra cups in position. The band can be continuous (crop top bra), front or rear fastening. The more rigid front section holds the cups in place and the elasticised sides and rear provide the compression needed to stop the band from riding-up, slipping down or rotating. Shoulder straps transfer some of the breast weight to the rear of the band.
More Information
Garment Anatomy
Cup
Bra Cup
The shaped part of the bra that encloses, holds and shapes the breast tissue.
More Information
Anatomy of a Bra
Arm Lift
Brachioplasty
Reducing excess skin and fat from the underside of the upper arm or upper arm and armpit.
Garment Suggestions
Arm Lift
Oedema
Breast & Chest Wall Oedema
Lymph fluid build-up resulting in swelling to the breast, armpit and/or chest wall that can occur after breast surgery and radiation. The condition appears to be the result of lymphatic system congestion, usually settles over time, but can persist for longer periods.
Garment Suggestions
Lymphoedema
Poland Syndrome
Breast Asymmetry Correction Surgery
Missing or underdeveloped muscles on one side of the body, resulting in abnormalities that can affect the chest (breast), shoulder, arm and hand.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Asymmetry Correction
Breast Asymmetry Correction
Breast Asymmetry Corrective Surgery
Changing the size, shape and/or position of one or both the breasts to improve visual symmetry.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Asymmetry Correction
Lumpectomy
Breast Conserving Surgery
Removing breast cancer and a small area of healthy tissue around the cancer.
Garment Suggestions
Lumpectomy
Explants
Breast Implant Removal
Removing breast implants.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Implant Removal
Drooping Breasts
Breast Ptosis
Sagging of the breasts such that the nipple and areola are out of position relative to the breast crease.
Briefs
Brief (Fashion)
Underwear that is also called knickers or panties. Style variations include higher and lower waist and matched to a fashion bra.
Product Suggestion
Briefs
Briefs
Brief (Support)
A compression garment covering the lower torso. Style variations include the extent of cover up the torso and the addition of coverage to the upper leg.
Product Suggestion
Briefs
Bust
Bust measurement
Female: Around the fullest part of the breast at nipple level (over the bra).
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Butt Lift
Buttock Lift
Reducing excess skin and fat to change the appearance of the buttocks.
Garment Suggestions
Body Lift
By Order
By Order
C
C-Section
Caesarean Section
Delivery of a baby through an incision in the abdomen (belly) and uterus (womb).
Garment Suggestions
Pregnancy
Calf
Calf Measurement
Around the widest part, between the knee and ankle.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Can
Can
Not an instruction, direction or medical option. Only intended to suggest a Product that may be an option or what might be achieved when a Product is used. Product selection and use should be at the direction of an appropriate medical professional.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular Contracture
When scar tissue that normally forms around a breast implant tightens and squeezes the implant causing it to change shape and/or become firm.
Carcinoma
Carcinoma
Cancer that begins in the skin or tissue covering an internal organ (such as breast tissue).
Cellulite
Cellulite
A common, harmless skin condition that causes lumpy, dimpled flesh on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis
A common, potentially serious bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissue. The skin becomes red, swollen and typically painful and warm to the touch. Common to the lower leg but can also affect the lower half of the breast where sweat can build up.
Chemo
Chemotherapy
Using drugs to treat cancer, often as an adjuvant treatment following surgery.
Chest
Chest Measurement
Male: Around the fullest part of the chest at nipple level.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Venous Insufficiency
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Leg vein wall and/or valves not working effectively, making it difficult for blood to return to the heart from the legs.
Circumferential Incision
Circumferential Incision
An incision encircling, or around the periphery or circumference of the body.
Compression
Compression
The capacity of a garment to provide the appropriate type (even or graduated) and amount (millimetres of mercury, mmHg) of pressure around part of the body. As worn compression can vary depending on garment type, fit and care. Methods used to test garment mmHg performance vary between countries, therefore care is needed when comparing performance.
More Information
For an explanation of performance attributes, go to Garment Anatomy.
For garment specific performance, go to a STUDIO RANGE Product page, click on the Fitter’s Notes button and scroll down to PERFORMANCE.
Sleeve
Compression Sleeve
A graduated compression garment covering from the wrist to the upper arm. Style variations include additional coverage to the palm, a separate gauntlet, or a separate glove.
Product Suggestion
Sleeves & Stockings
Stocking
Compression Stocking
An even or graduated compression garment covering the foot and extending up the leg. Style variations include an open or closed toe and coverage up the leg. Even compression stockings typically extend to below the knee. Graduated compression stocking can extend to below the knee or to the upper thigh.
Product Suggestion
Sleeves & Stockings
D
DIEP Breast Reconstruction
Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction
Taking a 'flap' of skin and fat from the abdomen to create a new breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
DVT
Deep Vein Thrombosis
When a blood clot forms in a vein located deep inside the body, typically in the thigh or lower leg.
Breast Implant Reconstruction
Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction
Using a breast implant to create the shape of the breast after a skin saving mastectomy.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
Donor Site
Donor Site
The part of the body where fat, skin and muscle are taken (for autologous surgery), typically a less exposed area such as the back, abdomen or buttocks.
Drain
Drain
A small plastic tube positioned during surgery, that sticks out of the body to remove fluid from the area of surgery.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
Non-invasive breast cancer confined to the ducts of the breast.
E
Ear
Ear Measurement
Around the back of the head, over the ears and forehead.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Embolism
Embolism
Obstruction of a blood vessel by a foreign substance (air bubble, amniotic fluid, globules of fat, chemicals etc) or blood clot that travels through the bloodstream to block a blood vessel.
Epigastric Hernia
Epigastric Hernia
When fatty tissue protrudes through a weakness in the abdominal wall, above the belly button and below the sternum of the rib cage.
Product Suggestion
Binders
Sizing Chart (EU)
European (EU) Sizing Chart
A sizing chart that uses commonly accepted European ‘Sizing Terms’ and ‘Body Dimensions’.
See Sizing Chart.
Extender
Extender
A swatch of material with one column of ‘hooks’ and several columns of ‘eyes’ that can be fitted into the ‘hook and eye’ fastener to increase the size of the garment. The number of rows, and the ‘gauge’ or spacing of each row of ‘hook and eyes’, must match that of the garment.
Product Suggestion
Fashion Bra Extender
Compression Bra Extender
Compression Garment Extender
F
Femoral Hernia
Femorocele
When fatty tissue or part of the intestine protrudes into the groin at the top of the inner thigh.
Garment Suggestions
Femoral Hernia
Fitted
Fitted
A garment purchased after a fitting.
Fitting
Fitting
Providing guidance on the selection of garment type, style and size best suited for individual need or surgery, body shape and perception of comfort. Options include:
STUDIO Fitting where guidance can be based on fitter’s measurements, firsthand observation, conversation and the trial of different garments.
Electronic (FaceTime etc) Fitting where guidance is more limited to observation and conversation about how and where to measure for the likely appropriate garment, or the fit of an existing garment.
Phone Fitting where guidance is limited to conversation.
Flap Surgery
Free Flap Surgery
Disconnecting the tissue completely from its blood supply, relocating the tissue to create a new breast mound and reattaching it to new blood vessels near the chest.
G
Garment
Garment
A Product worn for recovery from surgery, managing a condition and/or lifestyle, exercise and wellbeing after recovery.
Garment & Fitting Specialist
Garment & Fitting Specialist
Not a medical professional. A business that specialises in specified areas in order to develop Product knowledge and fitting experience.
Garment Collection
Garment Collection
A selection of Garments that show what may be relevant for recovery from surgery, managing a condition and/or for lifestyle, exercise and wellbeing after recovery.
Gender Reassignment Surgery
Gender Confirmation Surgery
Enabling people with gender dysphoria to permanently alter their body parts associated with their biological sex.
Chin Augmentation
Genioplasty
Increasing the size and/or shape of the chin.
Garment Suggestions
Face, Neck, Chin & Ears
Girdle
Girdle
A compression garment covering the lower torso (abdomen). Style variations include the height of cover up the torso and the addition of coverage to the leg.
Product Suggestion
Girdles
Butt Enhancement (BBL)
Gluteal Augmentation
Taking fat from one part of the body and using it to increase the size of the buttocks.
Garment Suggestions
Butt Enhancement
Groin
Groin
The fold or depression marking the junction of the lower abdomen and the inner part of the thigh.
Man Boobs
Gynecomastia
An increase in the amount of breast gland tissue in boys or men.
See Male Breast Reduction.
Male Breast Reduction
Gynecomastia Surgery
Using liposuction to remove breast fat but not the breast gland tissue, or a mastectomy to remove the breast gland tissue.
Garment Suggestions
Male Breast Reduction
H
Head
Head Measurement
Under the chin and up over the top of the head.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Hematoma
Hematoma
A pool of more or less clotted blood, usually caused by an injury to the wall of a blood vessel, allowing blood to seep out into the surrounding tissue. They tend to form more quickly and can gradually disappear over time.
Hernia Repair
Hernioplasty
Hernia repair where a patch of synthetic mesh is sewn over the weakened area.
Hernia Repair
Herniorrhaphy
Hernia repair where sutures are used to sew the healthy muscle tissue together.
Hip
Hip Measurement
Around the widest part of the body in line with the pubic bone and fullest part of the buttocks.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Clips
Hook & Eye Fastener
A fastener comprised of ‘hooks’ or ‘U-shaped’ clips that connects into an ‘eye’ or loop. There are usually one column of hooks and several columns of clips to allow for a tighter or looser fit. The ‘gauge’ or spacing between each row of hook and eyes can vary between brands. For bras, the number of hook and eyes can increase as band width is increased for larger cup sizes.
Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy (Partial or Total)
A partial or total removal of the uterus that can also involve other parts of the reproductive system.
Product Suggestion
Binders & Bands
Briefs
I
Incarcerated Hernia
Incarcerated Hernia
When part of the intestine or abdominal tissue becomes trapped in the sac of a hernia (bulge of soft tissue). When the intestine is trapped, stools may not be able to pass through the intestine.
Wound
Incision
A cut or wound made in the skin and underlying tissue during surgery. The size, location and number of incisions varies depending on the surgery. The wound can be closed using sutures, staples, glue or tape.
Incisional Hernia
Incisional Hernia
When tissue protrudes through an abdominal scar.
Garment Suggestions
Incisional Hernia
IGAP Breast Reconstruction
Inferior Gluteal Artery Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction
Taking a 'flap' of skin and fat from the bottom of the buttock (near the crease) to create a new breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
Breast Fold
Inframammary Crease
The natural lower boundary of the breast where the breast and the chest meet.
Inframammary Incision
Inframammary Incision
An incision made in the fold under the breast to position a breast implant.
Inguinal Hernia
Inguinal Hernia
When fatty tissue or a part of the intestine pokes into the groin at the top of the inner thigh.
Garment Suggestions
Inguinal Hernia
Implant
Internal Prosthesis
A shape that is filled with saline or silicone gel and that is used to augment the shape of the body.
Sizing Chart (INT)
International (INT) Sizing Chart
A sizing chart that uses commonly accepted Internal ‘Sizing Terms’ and ‘Body Dimensions’.
See Sizing Chart.
Nipple Enhancement
Inverted Nipple Correction Surgery
Increasing the projection of one or both nipples for a more symmetrical and natural appearance.
Garment Suggestions
Nipple Surgery
K
Keloid Scarring
Keloid Scarring
Scarring that continues to grow beyond the edges of the wound and becomes thick, puckered and firm, commonly on the shoulders, upper back and chest.
Product Suggestion
Scar Management
L
Labia
Labia
The inner and outer folds of the vulva either side of the vagina.
Laparoscopic
Laparoscopic
Surgical repair undertaken by inserting a laparoscope (optical instrument) and a laparoscopic surgical instrument through small incisions in the abdominal wall.
Lat Dorsi Breast Reconstruction
Latissimus Dorsi Flap Breast Reconstruction
Moving an attached 'flap' of skin, fat and muscle from the back under the skin to create a new breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
Leggings
Legging
A compression garment covering the lower torso and legs. Style variations include the height of cover up the torso and the extent of coverage to the leg.
Product Suggestion
Leggings
Liposuction
Lipectomy
Using suction to remove fat from below the surface of the skin to change the body shape.
Garment Suggestions
Liposuction
Lipedema or Lipoedema
Lipedema or Lipoedema
Using suction to remove fat from below the surface of the skin to change the body shape.
Fat Injection
Lipofilling
Taking fat from one area of the body, processing it, then injecting it to change the shape and/or size of another area of the body.
Lymph Nodes
Lymph Nodes
Glands in the armpit and other parts of the body that filter and drain lymph fluid, trapping bacteria, cancer cells and any other particles that could be harmful to the body.
Lymph Node Removal
Lymphadenectomy
Removal of lymph nodes.
Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema
Lymph fluid build-up resulting in swelling to the arm, hand, breast and/or torso, that can be triggered months or years after lymph nodes and vessels have been removed and/or damaged during breast surgery and radiation. Once triggered, the condition can be managed but not cured.
Garment Suggestions
Lymphoedema
M
Mammoplasty
Mammoplasty
Increasing or reducing the size and shape of the breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Implants
Breast Reduction
Breast Lift
Mastopexy
Removing breast tissue to lift-up sagging or drooping breasts. Sometimes combined with breast implants (augmentation) and breast reduction.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Lift
Thigh Lift
Medial Thigh Lift or Thighplasty
Reducing sagging skin from the mid-thigh or inner thigh.
Garment Suggestions
Thigh Lift
Chin Reduction
Mentoplasty
Reducing the size and/or shape of the chin.
Garment Suggestions
Face, Neck, Chin & Ears
Moulded Cup
Moulded Cup
Bra cups made from a single piece of shaped material.
More Information
Anatomy of a Bra
N
Neoadjuvant
Neoadjuvant
Treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy that is undertaken before surgery.
Nipple Sparing Mastectomy
Nipple Conserving Mastectomy
Removing the breast tissue but leaving the skin over the breast, nipple and areola intact.
Garment Suggestions
Mastectomy
Breast Reconstruction
Nipple Reconstruction
Nipple Reconstruction Surgery
Recreating the nipple and areola after breast reconstruction using surgery and/or tattooing (Note: rub-on tattoo nipples and silicone nipples can be used as part of the decision-making process).
Garment Suggestions
Nipple Surgery
Product Suggestion
Nipples
O
OEKO-TEX
OEKO-TEX Standard 100
OEKO-TEX is a globally standardised, independent testing and certification system for textiles.
A garment can only display the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Logo when every thread, button and other accessory has been tested for harmful substances. Statements such as ‘OEKO-TEX materials’ do not verify the status of the ‘ready to wear’ garment.
Heart Surgery
Open Heart Surgery
Surgery involving the heart muscle, valves, arteries, aorta or other large arteries connected to the heart that requires connection to a heart-lung bypass machine or bypass pump.
Product Suggestion
Male: Binders and Vests
Female: Compression Bras
Order
Order
Ear Correction Surgery
Otoplasty
Setting protruding ears closer to the head, reducing the size of larger ears and/or correcting mis-shaped ears.
Garment Suggestions
Face, Neck, Chin & Ears
P
Padded Cup
Padded Cup
Bra cups that use a layer of foam or other material to increase the thickness of the cup.
More Information
Anatomy of a Bra
Palm
Palm Measurement
Around the widest part of the hand.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Panniculectomy
Removing fat from the lower abdomen.
Garment Suggestions
Tummy Tuck
Apron
Pannus
Excessive folds of skin and tissue that overhang the lower abdomen, typically after extreme weight loss.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Partial Abdominoplasty
Removing fat from the area below the navel.
Garment Suggestions
Tummy Tuck
Partial Form
Partial Breast Prosthesis
A thinner symmetrical breast shape that is placed over the breast to add volume to the breast.
Product Suggestion
Partial Forms & Shapers
Payment Summary
Payment Summary
Flap Surgery
Pedicled Flap Surgery
Cutting some of the blood vessels to the tissue to be transferred but keeping others intact and tunnelling the tissue beneath the skin of the chest to create a new breast mound or pocket for an implant.
Performance
Performance
Describes common performance attributes. Product pages show garment performance claims. When these claims are generic (medical grade etc), BreastCare endeavours to contact the manufacturer for an indicative rating (high/medium/low, measurement etc) that could allow comparison with other garments. When no quantifiable information is provided, a ‘no data found’ statement is shown on the Product page.
Perineal Hernia
Perineal Hernia
Disruption of the pelvic diaphragm musculature that allows contents of the pelvic canal and/or abdominal cavity to herniate into the perineal subcutaneous tissues.
Product Suggestion
Perineal Trauma
Perineal Trauma
Perineal Laceration
Trauma to the perineum caused by child birth, surgery, trauma, abuse and the like, that can include perineal tears, anal muscle injuries and/or incision wounds.
Product Suggestion
Perineal Support
Accessories
Episiotomy
Perineotomy
An incision of the perineum and the posterior vaginal wall to quickly enlarge the opening for the baby to pass through.
See to Perineal Trauma.
Stages of Surgery
Perioperative Stages
The time lapse surrounding surgery divided into three stages: pre-operative, operative and post-operative.
Finger Numbness
Peripheral Neuropathy
A general term for pain or discomfort caused by damage to the peripheral nervous system affecting peripheral parts of the body such as hands and feet.
Neck Lift
Platysmaplasty
Tightening and removing skin from the neck.
Garment Suggestions
Face, Neck, Chin & Ears
Port
Port
A device placed under the skin (usually to right side of the chest) to give longer term chemotherapy treatments, intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, drugs and the like. For women, correct bra selection, fit and adjustment can reduce discomfort.
Compression Garment
Post-Operative Recovery Garment
A garment designed to provide the firm and even pressure around part(s) of the body to support the area of surgery and lessen pain and discomfort, reduce swelling and bruising, aid body contouring and skin retraction and improve mobility.
Product Suggestion
Compression Garments
Recovery
Post-Surgery Recovery
Typically the first 6-8 weeks after surgery when incisions are healing and swelling and bruising reduces.
Postnatal
Postnatal
Matters related to the baby after birth.
Postpartum
Postpartum
Matters related to the mother in the period following the birth of the baby.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy
Matters related to the mother from conception to the onset of labour or elective caesarean section.
Product
Product
Garments and associated items such as breast forms, bra accessories, hats, roll-on adhesives and the like.
Sizing Chart (ProdSpec)
Product Specific (ProdSpec) Sizing Chart
A sizing chart that may use commonly accepted ‘Sizing Terms’ but that has unique or Product Specific ‘Body Dimensions’. This results in a garment sizing with that same Sizing Term but with a different fit to garments based on National or International sizing chart.
See Sizing Chart.
PAP Breast Reconstruction
Profunda Artery Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction
Taking a 'flap' of skin, fat and blood vessels from the back of the upper thigh to create a new breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
Preventative Mastectomy
Prophylactic Mastectomy
Removing one or both breasts to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Garment Suggestions
Mastectomy
Breast Reconstruction
Breast Form
Prosthesis
A breast shape worn in a pocketed fashion bra after a mastectomy to recreate the natural look and feel of the breast line.
Product Suggestion
Breast Forms & Shapers
Sagging Breast
Ptosis (Breast)
More likely with larger breasts, but also a natural consequence of aging. Typically results in an increasing amount of breast tissue below the inframammary fold and the nipple pointing more downward
Garment Suggestions
Breast Lift
R
Radiation
Radiotherapy
Using high dose radiation to treat cancer, often as an adjuvant treatment following surgery.
Breast Reduction
Reduction Mammoplasty
Removing tissue, fat and skin to reduce the size of the natural breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reduction
Face Lift
Rhytidectomy
Removing sagging, drooping and/or wrinkled skin on the mid-face, jowls and or neck.
Garment Suggestions
Face, Neck, Chin & Ears
S
Scars
Scarring
Fibrous tissue that forms when normal tissue is cut. Outcomes can be affected by severity, skin colour, wellbeing, age, diabetes, smoking and healing complications.
Seasonal
Seasonal
Sentinel Node Biopsy
Sentinel Node Biopsy
Identifying and then removing the first lymph node(s) to which breast cancer is likely to spread so it can be examined to determine whether cancer cells are present.
Seroma
Seroma
Swelling created by a build-up of inflammatory and lymphatic fluid in the surgical cavity during healing that can develop slowly over days and weeks. Smaller seromas can gradually disappear as the fluid is re-absorbed. Larger or uncomfortable seromas may need to be aspirated (drained).
Shaper
Shaping Breast Prosthesis
A thicker oval shape that fills the area where breast tissue has been removed.
Product Suggestion
Partial Forms & Shapers
Shorts
Shorts
A compression garment covering the lower torso (abdomen). Style variations include the height of cover up the torso and variations in coverage to the leg.
Product Suggestion
Shorts
Bra Strap
Shoulder Strap
Strips of material that transfer some of the weight of the breast over the shoulder and down to the back of bra band.
More Information
Anatomy of a Fashion Bra
Wearing Fashion or Sports Bras
Stays
Side Stays
Rigid metal wires or plastic strips sewn vertically into the bra band under each arm to stiffen and straighten the band.
More Information
Anatomy of a Bra
Sizing Chart
Sizing Chart
Sizing charts use two components – ‘Size Terms’ and ‘Body Measurements’ – to determine a garment size. Size Terms can be International (INT – S, M, L etc), vary between countries (AU-12B, EU-75B, US-34B) or Product Specific (ProdSpec, 34 AA/A). Body Measurements can comply with an international convention or be Product Specific.
Skin Sparing Mastectomy
Skin Conserving Mastectomy
Removing the breast tissue, nipple and areola but leaving the skin over the breast intact.
Garment Suggestions
Mastectomy
Breast Reconstruction
Soft Cup
Soft Cup
Bra cups made from soft and lacy materials that are sewn together to form a cup shape.
More Information
Anatomy of a Bra
Spigelian Hernia
Spigelian Hernia
When tissue protrudes between the rectus muscles and the lateral muscles of the abdomen.
Garment Suggestions
Hernia
Strangulated Hernia
Strangulated Hernia
A potentially life-threatening condition where the surrounding muscle cuts off the blood supply by clamping down around (strangulating) protruding fatty tissue or a section of the small intestine.
Suggest
Suggest
Not an instruction, direction or medical option. Only intended to indicate a Product that may be an option or what might be achieved when a Product is used. Product selection and use should be at the direction of an appropriate medical professional.
SGAP Breast Reconstruction
Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction
Taking a 'flap' of skin and fat from the upper buttock/hip (love handles) to create a new breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
Glue
Surgical Glue
Medical glue like ‘super glue’ that can hold the incision closed whilst healing, then gradually wear away. Typically used on small incisions that do not require a great deal of strength to be held in place.
Staples
Surgical Staples
A sterile medical version of the common staple, commonly used in areas that move frequently, such as the abdomen, where greater strength is required to hold the incision closed.
Tape
Surgical Tape
Small sterile strips of adhesive material that ‘tape’ the wound closed, typically used on small incisions that do not experience a great deal of stress during healing.
Stitches
Sutures
Thread used to sew the wound closed. Synthetic thread is later removed. Absorbable sutures dissolve over time, are not removed, and are usually used in the deeper layer of a wound.
T
Spider Veins
Telangiectasia
A group of widened veins that can be seen through the skin surface.
Thigh
Thigh Measurement
Around the widest part, between the groin and knee.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Thromboembolism
Thromboembolism
Formation in a blood vessel of a clot (thrombus) that breaks loose and is carried by the bloodstream to block another blood vessel.
Breast Implant Reconstruction
Tissue Expander to Implant Breast Reconstruction
Using a tissue expander to ‘stretch the skin’ after a mastectomy. Then having follow-up surgery to remove the expander and replace it with a breast implant to create the shape of the breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
Expander-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction
Tissue Expander to Implant Breast Reconstruction
Using a tissue expander (empty breast implant that is gradually inflated) to stretch the skin and tissue to create the space for a breast implant.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
Expanders
Tissue Expanders
An empty breast implant that is gradually inflated with saline or air to stretch the skin and tissue to create the space for a breast implant.
TRAM Breast Reconstruction
Transverse Rectus Abdominous Muscle Flap Breast Reconstruction
Taking a 'flap' of fat, skin and muscle from the abdomen to create a new breast (Free TRAM: the flap is removed and reattached. Pedicled TRAM: moving the attached flap up under the skin).
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
TUG Breast Reconstruction
Transverse Upper Gracilis Flap Breast Reconstruction
Taking a 'flap' of skin, fat, the gracilis muscle and blood vessels from the upper inner thigh with a horizontal incision to create a new breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
U
Umbilical Hernia
Umbilical Hernia
When fatty tissue or part of the intestine pushes through the abdomen near the navel (belly button).
Garment Suggestions
Umbilical Hernia
Under Elbow
Under Elbow Measurement
Around the widest part, between the elbow and wrist.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Underbust
Underbust Measurement
Around the chest under the breast (Female: Just below the bra band).
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Underwire
Underwire
Curved rigid wire sewn into the bottom of each bra cup to hold the shape of the cup and create breast separation. Underwires also transfer some of the weight of the breast to the band.
More Information
Anatomy of a Bra
Unilateral
Unilateral
Affecting one side of the body.
Mastectomy
Unilateral or Bilateral Mastectomy
Removal of one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) breasts.
Garment Suggestions
Mastectomy
Sizing Chart (US)
United States (US) Sizing Chart
A sizing chart that uses commonly accepted United States ‘Sizing Terms’ and ‘Body Dimensions’.
See Sizing Chart.
Upper Arm
Upper Arm Measurement
Around the widest part, between the shoulder and elbow.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
V
Varicose Veins
Varicoses
Gnarly, enlarged and twisted veins found near the surface of the skin, typically in the legs and feet.
Fleur-de-Lis
Vertical Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty with an additional vertical incision to remove excessive loose skin and fat from the upper and lower abdomen.
Garment Suggestions
Tummy Tuck
VUG Breast Reconstruction
Vertical Upper Gracilis Flap Breast Reconstruction
Taking a 'flap' of skin, fat, the gracilis muscle and blood vessels from the upper inner thigh with a vertical incision to create a new breast.
Garment Suggestions
Breast Reconstruction
Vest
Vest
A compression garment covering the upper torso. Style variations include the length of cover down the torso and the addition of coverage to the arm.
Product Suggestion
Vests
W
Waist
Waist Measurement
Around the narrow part of the body, usually mid-way between the bottom of the ribs and top of hip bone.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Watchful Waiting
Watchful Waiting
Closely watching a patient's condition but not giving treatment unless symptoms appear or change.
Wrist
Wrist
Around the arm just before the hand.
More Information
Go to STUDIO RANGE, select an appropriate garment and see the measuring illustration.
Z
Zip
Zip Fastener
A larger version of a conventional clothing zip. Commonly underlain with several ‘hook and eye’ fasteners that are used to ‘close the gap’ and allow the zip to be done up without jamming.

BreastCare WA
31 Teddington Rd Burswood WA

Trading Hours Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm

Go to the Trading Day Calendar

Off-Street Parking at the Door

T (08) 9361 1300
E info@breastcarewa.com.au

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