FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are there different types of breast cancer?
There are two broad categories of breast cancer: noninvasive and invasive. Noninvasive breast cancer, or in situ, is when the cancerous cells remain in a particular section of the breast without spreading to surrounding tissues, ducts or lobules. Invasive breast cancer, or infiltrating, is when cancerous cells break through the normal breast tissue barriers and spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream and lymph nodes.
What is a mammogram and why should I have one?
A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breast. It can find breast cancer that is too small for you, your doctor or nurse to feel. Studies show that if you are in your forties or older, having mammogram every year could save your life.
How is a mammogram done?
Mammograms are quick and easy. You simply stand in front of an x-ray machine. The person who takes the x-rays places your breast between to plastic plates. The plates press your breast and make it flat. This may be uncomfortable for a few seconds, but it helps get a clear picture. You will have x-rays taken of each breast. Click here to view this document for more information.
Where can I get a mammogram?
To find out where you can get a mammogram:

Breast Cancer Presentation
For frequently asked questions, facts and information links about Breast Cancer click to view this presentation.
Services provided by Links for Life in the last fiscal year
4382 Phone calls fielded by the office
1165 Walk-ins were assisted
91 Mammograms funded
222 Ultrasounds funded
331 Fitted for wigs and head covers
13 Needle Biopsies 1 positive diagnosis
24 received bras/prosthesis
374 Women attended the support group
20,219 Educated regarding Breast Health & Links for Life
Monthly Breast Self-Exam
It is important to know how your breasts normally look and feel. A Breast Self-Exam is a method for early detection and something you should do monthly beginning in your 20s. Every three years you should have a Clinical Breast Exam (CBE) in your 20’s and 30’s and then every year after 40. Also being aware of your family history and talking with your doctor about additional tests is important and is a good way to stay on top of early detection and prevention.
Wig Boutique Locations

Links for Life Location
5301 Office Park Drive, Suite 370, 93309
Contact us for an appointment
(661) 322-5601 or staff@linksforlife.org

Wig Boutique – CBCC Breast Center
6501 Truxtun Avenue, 93309
Call us for an appointment (661) 616-1643

What should I expect at my Wig Boutique appointment?
When you first arrive, our Wig Specialist will talk to you about your current hairstyle, take measurements of your head, and help you choose a wig that you’ll be comfortable wearing.

If you pick a wig we have in stock you will be able to take it home with you that day. If your wig needs to be ordered, we will contact you when it arrives.

Our Wig Specialist will share her knowledge about caring for wigs and will help you understand the best way to care for your wig.

A typical appointment may last up to an hour. Feel free to bring a friend or support person with you!

When is the Wig Boutique open?

Wig Boutique – Links for Life Office
Open every Monday and Friday and alternating Tuesday and Thursday
Contact us to schedule an appointment
(661) 322-5601 or staff@linksforlife.org

Wig Boutique – CBCC Breast Center
Open every Wednesday and alternating Tuesday and Thursday
Call to schedule an appointment  (661)616-1643

How soon should I begin shopping for a wig?
If your doctor recommends a wig, we suggest shopping for your wig before beginning treatment. Our Wig Specialists have found that it’s beneficial to understand your current hairstyle when helping you choosing a wig that best fits your overall style.
Who can use the Links for Life Wig Boutique
Any woman experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatment can use the Wig Boutique. Currently, our boutique has the resources to provide two (2) wigs per year per person. If you are experiencing hair loss due to other medical conditions, wigs are available to be purchased at our cost.
Are your wigs made of real hair or synthetic hair?

Our Wig Boutique has chosen to carry only wigs with synthetic hair.  It has been our experience that synthetic wigs are easier to care for. Synthetic wigs will maintain their style after washing, while wigs made of real hair need to be styled after each washing.

Where can I donate my hair?
Great Clips
All Great Clips locations in Bakersfield will cut your clean hair and donate it to a company that makes wigs for patients experiencing hair loss. Your hair must be clean and a minimum of 10 inches long.

Wigs for Kids
Information is available at www.wigsforkids.org or at (440) 333-4433

Who can I contact if I need information about cancers other than Breast Cancer?
American Cancer Society
(661) 327-7827
www.cancer.org