FAQ
Introduction: The owners of A Woman’s Image would like to answer all of your questions you may have regarding the changes that may be occurring in your life due to the side effects of chemotherapy. While we can’t help you with all of your medical questions regarding how chemotherapy will affect you physically, we can offer the answers you may have regarding hair loss, skin care, and breast prosthetic needs.Below are some frequently asked questions?
1) Why does chemotherapy treatment make me lose my hair?
2) Since hair loss is going to happen, do I need a wig?
3) I have visited several wig shops and found that prices vary dramatically. Why is that?
4) Would I want a Synthetic Hair Wig verses a Human Hair Wig?
5) How are your services different than other wig shops in the area?
6) I am not going through chemotherapy, but instead have alopecia or hair thinning. Can you help me?
8) I would like to come in and look around. Is an appointment necessary?
9) I would like to make an appointment. Is there anything you suggest when I come in?
10) Okay, I picked out the wig I like. Now what?
12) My skin is so incredibly dry from the chemotherapy. What would you suggest?
17) I can't afford a wig and I don't have insurance for a breast form and bra. Can you help?
18) What type of insurances do you participate with?
1) Why does chemotherapy treatment make me lose my hair?
Physically, your hair is made up of fast growing cells. Cancer cells also divide and grow quickly. The chemotherapy drugs you may be receiving are deliberately pinpointing fast growing cells and the body cannot distinguish the difference between a cancer and hair cell, thus the reason for hair loss.
2) Since hair loss is going to happen, do I need a wig?
At A Woman’s Image, we feel the decision whether to have a wig is your choice. The idea of hair loss can be overwhelming. Our suggestion is to let us show you your options and only you can decide what you will feel comfortable with. We can look at this a couple of different ways: Many women come into our shop and feel that a wig is absolutely mandatory while others come in and feel that head wraps, scarf wraps, and turbans will suffice. On one hand we have had women come in and feel they had to have a wig, only to find that once hair loss occurred, they felt comfortable enough that they only wore their wig occasionally. On the other hand, many women who came in and thought they could get by with turbans and head coverings found that the wig they purchased was a lifesaver. Whether wearing a wig daily or occasionally, our suggestion is to have a hairpiece that you can rely on, almost like a security net, to make you look and feel great. Studies have shown that when we look good we feel good and at A Woman’s Image we strive for that goal. With over 7 years of experience and helping thousands of women, we feel that we can provide you with all the information you need to make your decision.
3) I have visited several wig shops and found that prices vary dramatically. Why is that?
The reason prices vary is based on the mode of construction and manufacturer.
- Machine Made Base – Least Expensive
- Mono-Filament Machine Made Base – Middle of the road
- Mono-Filament Hand Tied – Most expensive
The Machine Made Base wigs have the most hair and are the densest. As a result, they typically are the heaviest in weight and can feel the warmest since a lot of hair needs to be added to "hide" the wefts/openings that are the interior of the cap.
Here is an illustration of a machine made interior:
Here is an illustration of a mono-filament machine made interior:
The Mono-Filament Hand Tied wigs are basically the Cadillac’s of wigs. These wigs offer the mono-filament crown in addition to a hand-tied base resulting in the lightest weight wig on the market. Also known as hand knotting, the fibers of these wigs are hand sewn onto a mesh fabric that gives this hair piece the lightest density, the most breathe ability, and the absolute most natural look and feel. While the same style in a machine made wig can have a weight of 14 ounces, this mode of construction can offer the same look with a weight of 2 ounces. Most women say they feel like they don’t even have a wig on their head when wearing this style.
Here is an illustration of a mono-filament hand tied made interior:
4) Would I want a Synthetic Hair Wig verses a Human Hair Wig?
Synthetic wigs are great for these reasons:
- The "look" is locked in. Synthetic fibers have memory which means you can wash & wear. If your hairpiece has curl or a wave pattern, it will always be there even after many washings.
- Price. These wigs are definitely more affordable than human hair wigs, ranging in price from $125.00 - $425.00.
- Style. Honestly, if you have a short style, you’ll be much happier with a synthetic wig. It’s much less fuss than a human hair wig.
- Heat. Unless you’re buying a heat resistant synthetic wig (which some manufactures do provide) you can’t cook, grill, or go near a bonfire. Synthetic wigs are actually a form of plastic called Khanickuline which will melt.
- Style. The heat issue comes up here again. No blow dryers, straighter, curling irons, or hot rollers. But keep in mind, if you liked the original style, you don’t have to fuss with it to make it look different. That "look" will always be there.
- Color. Since it’s a synthetic fiber, no chemicals can be added to change the color.
- Friction Frizz. If your style is shoulder length or below, the fiber of the hair against the fiber of clothing rubbing against each will cause friction frizz. It will look like singed hair and have a matted look. Unfortunately, you really can’t wear a hat, head band, barrette, or any other type of head covering on a synthetic wig either. Sometimes we can help by cutting the "damaged" hair away and/or conditioning the fiber to relax it.
- Touch. They offer the feel and movement of real hair. The human hair wigs we carry are typically human Remy hair which is the top of the line, most natural fiber available.
- Color. You can have this wig chemically treated for either color, high lighting, curl patterns produced by perms.
- Heat. This fiber is treated like your own hair so you can cook, blow dry, or curl this wig.
- Friction Frizz. For our longer haired gals, typically shoulder length or longer, this is really the best option. The fiber continues to look healthy. There will be no friction frizz in wearing a hat over your hair, pulling your hair back in a ponytail with clips or hair ties, or any other head coverings you would like to try.
- Life. Typically, human hair wigs will result in a longer lifespan depending on the usage. We have had gals wear their wigs every day, all day and even after repeated styling methods on a daily basis, the wigs have lasted longer than a year.
- Lace Front Wigs. These human hair wigs with a lace front, monofilament and hand tied wigs are ideal for women who like to wear the hair off their forehead. Our licensed cosmetologists can cut the lace front to mirror a natural hair line eliminating the "wig line look" that many synthetic wigs reveal.
- Price. Human Hair wigs start at $600.00 and go up from there. Our price range is typically between $600.00 and $1500.00 depending upon manufacturer.
- Styling. Unfortunately, human hair wigs are exactly like our own human hair. So when we wash it, we have to blow dry and style it, so there is a bit more work involved.
5) How are your services different than other wig shops in the area?
Our hearts desire is provide our customers with the best products and services at the best prices. We feel the following is what sets us apart from our competitors:
- Experience. Stacy Ecker, licensed cosmetologist and co-owner has over 7 years of experience exclusively working with wigs thus providing women with a wealth of knowledge to find just the right hair piece. This includes color and style consultation that is second to none.
- Price. We are very sensitive to the challenges that are going on in your life. We opened our store vowing to never take advantage of women either financially, emotionally or intellectually while you are in a vulnerable state of mind. Other stores may "push" you into a product, making you believe you will need it through your course of treatment. We feel it’s our job to educate you to product availability and while we may make suggestions, ultimately the final decision is yours.
- Wig Care Kit. Not that this is incredible expensive ($20.00 - $30.00 value depending on whether synthetic or human hair) we include this in every wig purchase. If the price on a wig is $150.00 or $600.00, the kit is included. We feel strongly in providing the kit: shampoo, conditioner, wig stand and brush to you for two reasons. You, the customer and us, the provider. Many women are very apprehensive the first time they have to wash their wigs. With this in mind, we know that if we provided you with the correct products to care for your wig, you will feel confident and in turn, we will feel confident that in using these products, the life span of your wig should be at its fullest.
- Styling. Every single wig that leaves our store is styled and cut. Almost all wigs have way too much hair on them giving them that "wiggy" look. Our licensed cosmetologists debulk, face frame, layer and if need be, turn a below shoulder length wig into a cropped bob. All cutting is included in the price of the wig.
- Consultation. There are many stores that charge a consultation fee which is applied to the price of the wig with purchase. Our consultations are FREE whether we spend an hour or two trying wigs on to help you achieve the look your after. We feel we wouldn’t be doing our job if after getting to know you as a person; your career, your illness, your family, your hair needs. All of these make you who you are and we feel we can provide you with every option available.
- Education. From beginning to end. From making sure your wig is on your head correctly to caring for your wig, ensuring a long life, we spend that time with you so you feel confident.
- Custom Fit. Even though wigs are available in petite, average and large cap, each persons head shape is different. The shape of our heads dictates how we fill the interior of the cap of the wig. If there is a bubble or gap, we sew the wig so it fits your head exclusively providing you a natural look in addition to a great feel.
- Compassion. We left this one for last since it’s pretty important to us. When you walk through our doors looking for answers we know you’re not feeling the greatest. Stacy Ecker has a heart of gold. She treats all of her customers with professionalism and is compassionate to their specific needs. Lee Nieman, licensed cosmetologist can totally relate. A 6 year cancer survivor with total hair loss due to chemotherapy, she knows what you are going through. She shares many laughs and tears while supporting you and your needs.
6) I am not going through chemotherapy, but instead have alopecia or hair thinning. Can you help me?
Absolutely! There are so many reasons our hair thins: stress, thyroid disorders, and side effects of medicine. Just as fitting a wig for a customer that has total hair loss due to chemotherapy, we find your needs just as important. We will listen to your specific requirements and find solutions that are unique to you. With over 12 manufacturers that we have access to, we are confident we can find a wig, wiglet, top piece, enhancer that will make you look your best.
7) I don’t have hair thinning or hair loss but just want a wig for fun and fashion. Are those available to me?
We have over 700 wigs in stock that you can choose from. Not all are on display. A free consultation with a licensed cosmetologist will help you try on different colors, styles, lengths until you find one that is perfect for you.
8) I would like to come in and look around. Is an appointment necessary?
A Woman’s Image would never insist you have an appointment if you don’t feel comfortable with that. Yes, you can come in and look around, however as we work by appointment and we typically allow 1 – 1 ½ hours for a consultation, we can’t guarantee you will be able to try things on. We feel very strongly that as each one of us is unique – no two alike – we treat each customer special. We realize that each one of us has specific needs and we would feel we could not meet those needs unless we are talking to you one-on-one. The only thing an appointment will cost you is your time and even if you don’t see something you like, you will leave a more educated customer regarding your hair.
9) I would like to make an appointment. Is there anything you suggest when I come in?
We recommend you come in prior to hair loss. This reason is twofold; it gives us a chance to see your hair, the texture, color and style before it is affected by drug protocol. Also, it will make you feel better knowing that when your hair starts falling, you will have a wig that you will feel confident wearing. Another thing we feel is really important is to bring someone with you to the appointment. Whether your spouse, sister, mother, friend or neighbor, it is so important to have a second set of eyes and ears. In that first consultation, we provide you with a lot of information. Sometimes it’s hard to comprehend everything we say and someone else listening helps a lot. It is hard to make a decision by yourself when it comes to our hair. Many times we look to a significant other to say, "Hey, how do I look?" We sometimes have a customer that brings several people with her. That support team is invaluable.
10) Okay, I picked out the wig I like. Now what?
Our appointments are set up in two sessions. The first one is picking out the wig and the second is what we call the final fit. Once your hair starts to fall out, you may choose to come in and have our licensed cosmetologist shave off your hair and then custom fit your wig to your head. A Woman’s Image feels that decision should be made by you. Many women don’t want the constant reminder of shedding hair so they will have us, in a private room, shave their heads. They then can walk out of our boutique feeling confident, pretty and satisfied. If you would like, we also provide a scalp massage at this time. As the hair is coming out, the scalp can sometimes be sensitive to the touch. We ask you how your scalp feels and if appropriate will do a warm cleansing and massage.
11) I have heard insurance sometimes pays for my wig since I’m going through chemotherapy. Can you help with the paper work?
We encourage you to call your insurance company and find out if you have coverage for a wig or "cranial prosthesis" as insurance companies define it. The CPT code is A9282. When calling the insurance company, they usually will ask for your diagnosis code and the CPT code. Your doctor will write a prescription or letter of medical necessity for your wig. On the prescription the doctor or nurse will usually write down the 4 digit diagnosis code, example for breast cancer is 174.9. The prescription should read: "Cranial prosthesis needed for chemotherapy induced alopecia". Please keep in mind that even if your doctor writes a prescription, that doesn’t mean your insurance contract provides coverage. Medicare never allows for a wig and we understand your frustration when you come in with a doctor’s prescription, only to be told your wig is not covered. If you do have coverage, we will facilitate all your paperwork for you electronically so that you will have reimbursement as quickly as possible.
12) My skin is so incredibly dry from the chemotherapy. What would you suggest?
We carry two lines of skin care products. Lindi Skin is specially formulated for chemotherapy and radiated skin. It was developed by doctors who specifically know the changes that your skin is going through. Their moisturizer lotions are superior in keeping your skin hydrated. They even have a cooling pad for radiated skin that is covered by Medicare. This pad is made of aloe vera and ? and is very calming and soothing for your skin. We also carry Arbonne International. This is a Swiss, botanical based product containing no mineral oil allowing full absorption to every layer of the epidermis. This product has yielded fantastic results for many. Visit their websites to learn more.
www.lindiskin.com
13) My doctor just told me I have to have a lumpectomy or mastectomy. Are there any products you have that may help me?
Nancy Przeklas, CMF (certified mastectomy fitter) has been assisting women with their chest wall surgeries since 2002. Whether you are choosing to have reconstruction after your breast surgery or not, we have products that can help you after surgery. The first product you could benefit from is a post-surgical camisole. This cotton camisole has pockets to hold drainage tubes that are typically in place for 7 – 10 days. This camisole can be a lifesaver as you won’t have to be constantly pinning and unpinning the tubes to your clothing. Some hospitals do provide these camisoles immediately after surgery. Check with your hospital to see if they are one of them. Even if your hospital does provide this product, many women will like to have a second one since they are in this camisole day and night for the first 7 – 10 days following surgery. Insurance companies pay for this product; however you may have a small out-of-pocket expense depending upon which manufacturer you choose. Once your drainage tubes come out, a leisure bra and leisure form is the next step while you are recovering. These products are lightweight and non-binding, allowing your chest wall to heal. The average time in these products are 4 – 6 weeks from your surgery. Once your doctor gives you approval and writes a prescription for a breast form and bra, you can then come in and be fit with a bra and form. A breast prosthesis is important to help keep the body symmetrical when an imbalance is caused by breast surgery. If your body is not properly balanced, shoulder, back and spine alignment can be altered and result in discomfort. A breast prosthesis help to restore not only your body’s natural balance but also your self image. The products available today are wonderful. A Woman’s Image has the aspiration to try to put every woman in a seamless cup bra. They look the most natural under your clothing. We carry every style available by every manufacturer to achieve this goal. The breast forms are lightweight and come in many different shapes. Each one of us is unique and it’s with a trained eye, education and experience, that we are able to find the perfect shape for you. Again, all of the above products are covered by insurance companies. A Woman’s Image also provides custom breast forms. The benefit of a custom breast form is it is tailored specifically to your chest wall. A plaster cast is made of your chest wall, completely duplicating the shape and size of your remaining breast. It will precisely fit against your chest wall to avoid shifting inside your bra. We also can choose skin tone to match your own along with other physical characteristics such as freckles or veins.
14) I had lymph nodes removed and my doctor said I may develop lymphadema. What is that and do have any products that will help me?
Lymphadema is a swelling of the arm or breast due to an accumulation of lymph fluid that occurs when lymph nodes are blocked or removed. Not to be alarmed; this condition occasionally happens. One way of preventing lymphadema is to be measured for a lymphadema sleeve. We strongly feel every woman should have a sleeve if they are traveling via an airplane. The pressure changes in flight can cause the lymph fluid to change and hopefully this condition can be prevented by wearing a sleeve 1 – 2 hours both pre and post flight. Medicare does not cover these garments, however most other insurance companies do. For an in-stock sleeve, the price is typically $65.00 - $75.00 and a custom sleeve is approximately $175.00 - $200.00. We carry both Juzo and Jobst manufacturers.
15) Since undergoing chemotherapy I have had hot flashes non stop. Are there any products that can help me get some relief?
A Woman’s Image encourages you to talk to your doctor to find relief by drug use, herbal supplements or topical estrogen creams. We do have hot flash apparel that may help you get a better nights sleep. These pajamas wick the moisture away, instead of absorbing it, thus keeping your clothes dry. It’s like wearing a worn, old t-shirt that is soft and lightweight. The difference is t-shirt material absorbs moisture and gets soaking wet. These pajamas allow your body to evaporate the moisture before absorbing it. We carry Wildblue and Nite Sweatz brands. The Nite Sweatz brand also has underwear and tank tops that can be worn under your day clothes that work by blocking absorption to your outerwear clothing.
16) I have young children that may not understand the changes that chemotherapy is going to do to my body. How can I explain to them the outward changes that will occur?
We carry the Kimmie Care doll which has a wig on it. The dolls help children to understand that it’s going to be all right if their mom or grandma loses their hair and has to wear a wig or hats. These dolls come in various ethnicities.
17) I can’t afford a wig and I don’t have insurance for a breast form and bra. Can you help?
We are recommended by the American Cancer Society as a location for donated wigs, breast forms and bras. Many people will donate these products once they don’t have a use for them. We wash them and put them in our donation bank. You are more than welcome to see if something will suit your needs and take it for free. Please keep in mind that we are limited to what’s provided to us, so we may not be able to match your color, style or size, however we will try our hardest to get you into something that will work.
18) What type of insurances do you participate with?
We are participating providers with Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, PPOM, St. John’s Smart HealthPlan, and HAP PPO. We will facilitate all your paperwork for breast forms, bras and wigs (if covered). If possible, please bring your prescription with you. If you don’t have one, we can always call your physician and have one faxed to us. Our fax number is 586-286-1207.
