Choosing a Breast Prosthesis
Tips for Breast Cancer Survivors Finding and Fitting a Breast Form
An overview of the different breast prostheses available on the market, as well as tips for finding the right fit and choosing a prosthesis to suite your lifestyle.
After mastectomy surgery many women choose to wear a breast prosthesis. The prosthesis may be a permanent option, or may be a transitional tool while awaiting reconstructive surgery. Either way, choosing the right device can make a big difference in how you look and feel.
The prosthesis has several functions beyond its obvious use in balancing the appearance of the chest. It also helps to protect the surgical site; keeps the bra from riding up; and helps prevent posture problems and muscle pain due to the weight difference between the two sides of the torso.
Being professionally assessed and fitted is the key to finding the right prosthesis. When properly selected it will look great, and will be in keeping with your activities and lifestyle. There are several types of devices to chose from:
Silicone Breast Prosthesis. Made of silicone (like surgical breast implants), this prosthesis is close to the look and feel of real breast tissue. It is weighted to mimic the size of a real breast, and this weight is helpful in maintaining posture and preventing muscle aches. It can be heavy, hot, and impractical when participating in vigorous physical activity or playing sports.
Non-Silicone Breast Prosthesis. This non-silicone prosthesis is made of lightweight foam or fiberfill, and can be worn right after surgery. It is a great choice for active women as it is comfortable when exercising and works for swimming as well. The trade off is that it does not have the weight and “real-life” look and feel of its silicone cousin. Janac Sportswear has one of the most recommended non-silicone versions on the market called the Been-a-Boob.
Partial Breast Prosthesis. For women who have had a lumpectomy, and have a noticeable change in breast shape, a partial prosthesis can be fitted to fill out the shape of the breast. It can be made of foam, fiberfill, or silicone.
Post-Surgical Camisole. A soft, stretchy undergarment with a handy pocket for a soft prosthesis, the camisole is often worn after surgery or radiation therapy. The garment is supple and non-irritating, ensuring comfort for the wearer.
Attachable Breast/Self-Supporting Prosthesis. All of the aforementioned prosthesis options work best in a bra fitted with a pocket. In contrast, a self-supporting device attaches directly to the body using a special adhesive, and does not require special undergarments to fit correctly. It looks and feels very natural on the body, but the adhesive can cause problems in women with sensitive skin. A different option should be chosen during radiation, as the skin in the radiation area is easily irritated.
Once you have decided what you want in a prosthesis, the next step is to ensure a good fit. The device should fill your bra at the top and the bottom. That said, it should not be too full, and your arms should swing freely when it's in place (you can also feel for fullness under the arm with your hands). Finally, make sure to compare the softness and size of the prosthesis with your other breast. If you are being fitted with a silicone form, it may feel a bit heavy at first, but you will adjust to the weight over time.
Keep all of these options and tips in mind when shopping, and choose what you think will work best for you. Your personal needs and lifestyle will determine which direction you take with your purchase. With the variety of products available, you are certain to find something that fits well and feels great - and there is no reason you cannot have several models available for different occasions!
The programs for breast prosthesis acquisition differ from province to province (in Canada) and state to state (in the U.S.). Ask your surgeon, nurses, and hospital care team to provide you with information on resources in your area.
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