Breast Prosthesis

What is Breast Prosthesis

Breast Prosthesis is an artificial breast that is worn outside the body.

A prosthesis is an artificial body part to replace one that is missing. Women sometimes have one or both breasts surgically removed (mastectomy) as part of treatment for breast cancer. After having a mastectomy, some women choose to have reconstructive surgery with implants.

There are many types of breast prostheses. They are made of different materials, replace different parts of the breast, and may be worn in different ways.

What are the different types of breast prostheses?

Types of breast prostheses include:

  • Breast forms, which resemble a natural breast. These may be placed inside your bra or attached directly to your body.
  • Equalizers, which are smaller prostheses. These are designed to fill out the natural breast when only part of it was removed.
  • Nipple prostheses. These may be attached to your breast during surgery or worn externally.
  • Custom-fitted prostheses. These are custom-made to fit your body. They are more expensive and can be made from different materials.

Breast prostheses can be made of:

  • Silicone. This tends to be heavier but it looks and feels natural. Silicone breast prostheses last for several years. They may help with your posture and help to keep your shoulder from dropping.
  • Polyfill or foam. These lightweight materials are comfortable and machine washable. You can even wear them while swimming.

How do I get fitted for a breast prosthesis?

Your health care provider can recommend places where you can try on and choose a breast prosthesis. Surgical supply stores and specialty lingerie shops often carry breast prostheses. These stores usually have a professional there who can properly fit you for prosthetic breasts.

Call the store to see if someone is available to fit you for the prosthesis, and make an appointment if necessary. You might want your partner or a good friend to go with you. Wear a shirt that fits snugly so you can see how the prosthesis looks under clothing. Try on several different kinds to find one that fits well, looks natural, and feels comfortable.

You may also need a bra that fits your prosthesis. Your usual bra might work, but you may need an extender when you are first recovering from surgery. This helps your bra fit more loosely. You might need a mastectomy bra to hold your prosthesis in place.

Follow these instructions at home:

  • Give yourself some time to get used to wearing the breast prosthesis. At first, it may feel heavy and uncomfortable.
  • Find out how to clean and care for your prosthesis.

Where to find support:

For more support, turn to:

Where to find more information

Learn more about breast prostheses from:

Contact a health care provider if:

  • Your prosthesis is uncomfortable or is causing irritation.
  • You are not healing well after your mastectomy.
  • You want to discuss breast reconstruction surgery.

Summary

  • Breast prostheses are an alternative to reconstruction surgery for women who have had a mastectomy to treat breast cancer.
  • There are many types of prostheses available.
  • Work with a professional fitter to make sure that your prosthesis fits correctly.
  • Choose a prosthesis that looks and feels comfortable and natural to you.
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