People react in different ways to their cancer treatment. Some worry about how they are going to look after their surgery, others about how they will manage during and after chemotherapy.

Changes to your appearance can be upsetting, particularly if your treatment is likely to cause your hair to fall out, or your body shape to change after surgery or as a result of other treatment. There are a range of options available to assist you to feel more comfortable during this time including headwear, wigs, prosthesis and clothing. There are also programs that can assist you to ‘feel better’ about your appearance during treatment.

If you have any concerns about your appearance you may find it helpful to talk to someone who has been through the same sort of experience or to a professional counsellor. For further information on this refer to the sections on Emotional Wellbeing and Personal Support (in particular Cancer Support Groups and Telephone Support).

Body Image is grouped into the following sub-categories:

• Clothing
• Makeup
• Wigs and Headgear

Clothing

There are retail outlets which provide lingerie and clothing suitable for a woman with breast cancer.

You will find information about funding assistance in the Financial subcategory.

Go to TopGo to Directory

Makeup

For women it is quite natural to need reassurance about their appearance during treatment. There is a program available which provides women with advice about makeup and their general appearance during or following cancer treatment.

Go to TopGo to Directory

Wigs and Headgear

If you need to have chemotherapy as part of your treatment you may experience hair loss or thinning. Usually the hair loss is temporary and regrowth begins shortly after treatment. During this time some people choose to wear a variety of hats or a wig, or simply restyle their hair. Keep in mind that in colder months it is important to keep your head warm, while in summer it is important to protect your skin from the sun.

You will usually find a range of hats and turbans available at treatment centers. Patterns are also available so that you can make your own. Some hospitals and community groups organise wig libraries. There are also some commercial options providing a range of purpose designed headwear for cancer patients.

You will find information about funding assistance in the Financial subcategory.

Go to TopGo to Directory