Breast Prostheses
There are many decisions a woman must make when she is faced with breast cancer. Depending on the severity of the cancer, the type of surgery used to treat the cancer, lifestyle and several other factors may effect her decision about having breast reconstruction or about using a natural breast forms or breast prosthesis. This is a very personal decision and should be talked about with your physician even before your surgery.
Here is some information about the breast prosthesis that might help with that decision.
The shape and size of silicone prosthesis is more than a matter of appearance. It actually replaces the weight of the lost breast and helps restore the body's equilibrium. It can ease back, neck, and posture problems as well as shoulder muscles droop that can be caused without the weight of a breast. When being fit with breast prosthesis the fitter will want to match the size to the remaining breast, thus the weight equilibrium of the body is kept in balance. Breast Prostheses are natural and comfortable and may help with the psychological healing of a breast cancer and help the patient feel more feminine & confident. Prosthesis can be worn attached to the chest wall, inside the pocket of a mastectomy bra and/or regular bra, or against the skin. Prostheses are available in many styles and sizes.
Helpful Hints for Prosthesis Purchase
Generally you are ready to be fit for a prosthesis and surgical bra 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will recommend the appropriate time based on your healing.
Talk to your physician about obtaining a prescription for silicone prosthesis and surgical bras for your insurance. Always check with your insurance company to determine which post-mastectomy items are covered under your plan. Most insurers see a prosthesis and surgical bra as a medical necessity and will cover up to 80%, if not all the costs. There may be a cap your insurance will pay, so ask before buying. If you don’t have insurance and are concerned about the expense, ask about used prostheses at your local retailer or your American Cancer Society location.
A post-mastectomy fitting takes up to one hour and involves personal assistance. Schedule an appointment for your fitting with a “certified” fitter that can help you select the prosthesis which best suits your body type, breast shape and life style. Ask about exchange and return policy is for that particular store.
A surgical or mastectomy bra will be specially fit for you so the prosthesis is positioned correctly, the right size, shape and color as your existing breast. The bra has a special pocket where the prosthesis fit and can be used with one or two prosthesis. They come in front and back enclosures, sport bras, camisoles and even bathing suits.
If you are a double mastectomy patient, you can choose the size and shape you prefer.
At your fitting, wear a garment that fits so you and your fitter can see the shape of your breast when trying on your new bra and prosthesis.
There are also prostheses for women who need to fill in partially missing tissue who have undergone a lumpectomy, breast reconstruction, breast conserving surgery, or partial mastectomy. The partial breast forms (prostheses) and shapers are worn to bring balance, symmetry, and a better bra fit and are used to fill in missing tissue anywhere where they are needed. These forms offer different shapes to fit different areas of the breast and varying body and surgery types. Additionally, shapers can be used as an enhancer during the reconstruction process, or can be used to adjust for weight gain or loss after reconstruction.
Stores that specialize in Breast Prostheses and/or Specialty Bras
Here is a list of some of the stores that carry breast prostheses and/or mastectomy bras. This list is for your information and convenience. A physician’s prescription for a prosthesis and bra is often necessary for you to obtain reimbursement from your health insurance. Please check with your insurance company prior to shopping for your prosthesis and bras because your particular health insurance company may be contracted with specific stores.
The health-related information and resources on this website are provided for general information purposes only. They are never intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and may not be applicable to any particular condition. Always consult a qualified medical professional for the diagnosis or treatment of any disease or other health concern or before beginning a fitness regimen. Some of the content and health resources found on this site are provided and maintained by other parties. Though we strive to obtain such materials from reliable sources, they may contain inaccuracies or outdated information. We do not endorse or guarantee any of these materials. Please use these materials only in conjunction with the advice of a qualified medical professional. Neither Breast Friends nor any of its volunteers or staff will be responsible or liable for any claim of loss or damage resulting from the use of this site or the information and resources contained in or accessible through this site.
