A Special Place Wigs and Second to Nature Post-Mastectomy

page contents Understanding Hair Loss During Chemotherapy

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Second to Nature

A Special Place

500 State St.
Greensboro, NC
(336)274-2003

5524 Williamson Rd. #15
Roanoke, VA
At Lamplighter Mall
(540)366-2711

Post-Mastectomy Fashion and Wigs in Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, Burlington, Roanoke, Blacksburg, Salem, Wigs, Hats and Scarves for Chemotherapy, Cancer, Alopecia, Breast Prostheses, Post-Mastectomy Bras and Swimwear.

Chemotherapy Hair Loss

For many women, hair loss is one of the most distressing side effects of cancer treatment. If you are preparing to undergo chemotherapy, you may not know where to begin.

At A Special Place, our goal is to make the process of selecting a wig simple and pleasant. Our trained and certified wig fitters have years of experience in helping chemotherapy patients choose the best options for their unique lifestyle and sense of style. We can guide you in selecting the best wig, hats, and/or scarves for you!

Getting Started

It is best to get started preparing for hair loss as soon as possible. First, ask your doctor or nurse what you should expect with your chemotherapy. Not all chemotherapy regemins are the same. Some cause total hair loss, others thinning, while some do not cause hair loss at all. Most commonly, hair loss will begin about 14 days after your first treatment. It will be easiest to shop for your wigs before you begin treatment, if possible.

Preparing For Your Fitting

It is best to make an appointment for a fitting, so you can have a private, uninterrupted consultation. While we recommend appointments, we do accept walk-ins on a first come, first serve basis between 10-5 on weekdays. You may not be ready to buy a wig at your initial consultation - that's fine - we can help you explore your options ahead of time, so that if and when you need it, you are prepared. There is never any charge or obligation.

Before you come in, its best to do a little research and give some thought to what options you are most interested in. Look over our Guide to Choosing a Wig for ideas. You can also browse our online wig catalog and write down the styles that interest you. Keep an open mind - even if you don't think you want a wig, or you don't view yourself as a "hat and scarf" person. Many of our clients are pleasantly surprised to discover how nice the wigs, hats and scarves look once they try them.

Think, too, about whether you want to match your current hair style and color as closely as possible, or experiment with something new. Most patients prefer the comfort of staying with a familiar style...but if you've ever wanted to try something new, now is the ideal time!

You may wish to call your insurance company or check your policy manual to see if wigs are an included benefit. Or, if you prefer you can give us your insurance information when you make your appointment, or bring your cards to your consultation, and our insurance specialist will verify your benefits for you. Ask your oncologist to write a prescription of the wig, and bring it to your appointment. If your insurance does cover your wig, we will need it to file your claim...but even if it doesn't, it can entitle you to a tax break! If you don't have the prescription with you, don't worry - just give us your doctor's name, and we'll get it for you.

Most women invite a friend or family member to accompany them to their fitting. Remember, however, that this time is your time and ultimately, you are the one that is going to wear the wig, so it's your decision. Select someone who will give you honest feedback and wholehearted support. You are welcome to invite as many people as you want to your fitting - but a word of caution - we have noticed that bringing too many people to the fitting can lead to too many differing opinions - which can become overwhelming and cause unnecessary stress. Many of our clients ask their stylist to accompany them. Since your stylist knows you and your hair best, he or she can be a very valuable help at this time.

What to Expect at Your Fitting

You should allow about about 1 hour for your initial consultation. We have both a private fitting room as well as fitting areas in the main show room, so you can choose the level of privacy you desire. With over 1000 wigs in stock and over 100 on display, as well as 100's of hats and scarves - you will have plenty to look at and try on.

Your consultant will begin by asking you a few question so she can discern your needs. We can also check your insurance at this time (except on weekends and holidays, when insurance companies are closed). If you are unfamiliar with wigs, she will offer you a brief overview of the different types of wigs. She will also measure your head so she can select the right size wig. You are welcome to ask any questions you may have during your consultation.

Now it's time to try on wigs. Your consultant will bring out as many wigs as you want to try on, and discuss with your the options for customizing the wigs. It's good to keep in mind that wigs rarely look perfect out of the box. More often than not, they will require trimming and thinning to look natural. Also, if you have a lot of hair, it can make the wigs look "poofy", so your consultant can help you visualize what the wig will look like once it's customized for you.

Once you have selected the style and color you desire, if it is in stock, you can purchase it same day, or place it on hold until you are ready for it. Or, if we need to order your exact style and color, we can do that. It only takes 2-5 business days to receive most orders.

If you also wish to try on hats and scarves, your consultant can help you with that as well. We offer free hands-on scarf tying lessons. We can also offer assistance with skin care, make-up, mastectomy or lymphedema products if desired.

Personalizing the Wig

Once you have chosen your wig, you will want to have it personalized for you. We can custom size the cap for you for a perfect fit, and cut and style the wig on site. We recommend waiting until you have lost your hair before customizing the wig, for the best results. Some patients choose to buzz cut their hair when it starts to come out, and others wait and let it come out on its own. That's a personal choice. If you want a buzz cut, we have private rooms available, and can cut and style your wig immediately afterward - so you come in with hair and go out with hair - no awkward "in-between" time. If you have long hair, you might consider donating it to "Locks of Love" or "Wigs for Kids". Ask your consultant for details.

Your consultant will also review with you all the care instructions for washing, styling and wearing your wig before you take it home.

We're With You All the Way

You will find the difference at A Special Place is in our care. We are always available to help you with your wig. If you have any questions or concerns about your wig, call us or stop by. We're happy to help you wash or style your wig, adjust the fit, or trim the wig as needed. Or just stop by and let us know how you're doing. We love it when you come in to show us your new hair growing in! When you're finished with your wig, you can drop it off, and we will clean it, re-style it, and donate it to the American Cancer Society to help women in need!

What's New at A Special Place and Second to Nature

New Kathy Ireland Wig Collection