SW_Lady_ZA

6 | May 5, 2016 | 22nd century media lady
22ndCenturyMedia.com
Images Boutique caters
to women who have
been affected by cancer
Felicitas Cortez
Freelance Reporter
Many women who have been treated for
breast cancer undergo surgeries and procedures
that alter their physical appearance.
Whether these changes are temporary or
permanent, a New Lenox boutique is determined
to assist women to look and feel as
beautiful as ever.
Images Boutique, located at 338 Alana
Drive, opened this year to specialize in breast
prosthetics, wigs, sleep caps, compression
sleeves, clothing and accessories from wellknown
brands — Jodee, American Breast
Care, t.h.e. and Hats with Heart.
“It’s all about helping women live the life
they’ve always imagined, regardless of their
cancer,” store manager Linda Gaunce said.
“There really is no other store in the area,
except ours, which caters to ladies who have
been affected by cancer.”
Breast prosthesis and bras are among their
best-selling items.
Women need time after mastectomies
before breast reconstruction or may choose
against the procedure altogether. Breast
prosthesis, also known as breast forms, can
help women look balanced, filling in the
space where the breast was prior to surgery.
“It’s easy to slip one into a mastectomy
bra, or two forms if the woman had bilateral
surgery,” Gaunce said.
Made of silicone gel, foam or fiberfill
interior, the weighted forms come in many
shapes and sizes, accommodating traditional
bra measurements — AA to H.
“Mastectomy bras have sleeves that hold
the forms in place,” Gaunce said. “We even
carry swimwear, one-piece and special order
two-piece suits, which can accommodate the
prosthesis.”
Gaunce also pointed out prosthesis specially
designed for water activity.
“These are made from silicone beads,
move like a natural breast and are a little
lighter in weight than standard prosthesis,”
Gaunce said. “Both [types of prosthesis] are
waterproof, but some women prefer to wear
the swim forms with the bathing suits.”
The store sells mastectomy bras in every
size and style, from lace-trimmed beige to
leopard prints.
Gaunce is a certified mastectomy fitter, an
important qualification that measures expertise
and training, as well as a necessary detail
for clients’ insurance approval of purchases.
“Bodies change after surgery, so it’s important
to get the fit just right,” Gaunce said.
“I’ll measure the women and give advice on
the types and styles of bras to ensure a comfortable
fit.”
Gaunce said the store’s clientele ages
ranges from women in their early 30s to 80s.
“Some women come to the store by themselves;
others come with their husbands,”
she added. “It’s my job to make sure each
woman leaves happy and with a smile on
their face. And no one leaves the store without
a hug.”
Images Boutique is open daily, 8:30 a.m.-3
p.m. Customers can call for an appointment,
and walk-ins are welcome.
For more information, visit www.imagesboutiques.com
or call (815) 717-6207.