What is a breast prosthesis?

An external breast prosthesis is a silicone breast form that has a natural shape and design and has comfortable and practical features. They are design so that they can match perfectly to the non- operated breast giving a natural and even look while compensating for the lost tissue and giving the best shape possible, restoring the confidence and curves in a natural weight and without any risk of discomfort or restriction of movement.  There are different shapes and sizes available to suite your needs.

Types of breast prosthesis

The full or standard- this prosthesis is designed to sit against the chest wall where all breast tissue has been removed. It’s matched in size, shape and skin tone to your other breast. If you had a bilateral mastectomy you can choose the size that you are most comfortable with.

Partial or shaped prosthesis – A partial prosthesis is for women who have had part of their breast removed. It’s made of the same silicone material as most full prostheses.It’s worn inside a bra and is shaped to fill out the breast outline.

Shell prosthesis – This is a type of prosthesis that may be used if your breasts are different in size from each other. It’s a soft ‘shell’ of silicone that fits over your smaller breast so that it matches the larger one. This type of prosthesis can also be useful for women who have had breast reconstruction surgery where symmetry has not been achieved, or if an implant is in the process of being expanded.

What makes a mastectomy bra different from a normal bra?

The straps of a mastectomy bra are wider and more comfortable. It does not cut into the skin and in some bras it can be padded for complete comfort. The under band is an important feature of the mastectomy bra. It helps the bra to stay in place and are normally wider than normal bras and this helps in some cases to cover the scars where normal bras will apply pressure on the scar. The bras are designed to be as secure as possible and supportive side seams assist with this. The soft seams ensure a comfortable fit and a higher cut bra. The bra has special soft pockets for a breast prosthesis fits in perfectly.

What happens immediately after surgery or during your treatment?

Post-surgical garments are extra soft and smooth for your comfort that will provide support to you during your healing process. It is important and beneficial to wear garment that close in front that provide comfortable access during radiation or chemotherapy.

Wearing the correct high-quality post mastectomy garment after your procedure can help you during the recovery phase by applying compression on the skin and help reduce the swelling and aiding in flushing fluids from your body. Flushing fluids from your body can help reduce bruising and reduce the risk of infection during the healing process. It will hold the skin firmly and aid in body contouring. A proper fitted, high quality compression garment will make you comfortable during the recovery phase.

Six weeks post-surgery

By this time, it is safe to start wearing mastectomy bras and if it is needed a silicone breast prosthesis. Make sure wounds are completely healed.