BREAST PROSTHESIS
WHAT SHOULD I KNOW???
WHAT?
A breast prosthesis is an artificial breast shape that sits inside an prosthetic bra to replace all or part of your breast.
Most breast prostheses are made from soft silicone gel (which is anti-allergenic), encased in a thin film. They’re molded to resemble the natural shape of a woman’s breast, or part of a breast. The outer surface feels soft and smooth and may include a nipple outline.
There are also non-silicone breast forms made from soft material and filler. These are usually used as a temporary measure while heeling occurs.
WHEN?
About 6 weeks after a mastectomy, once your scar has healed and you have finished any radiotherapy you may need, you'll be ready for your permanent prosthesis. Radiotherapy can sometimes cause your breast to become swollen a little. You may prefer to have your prosthesis fitted when you no longer have any swelling. Temporary prosthetics are available during the healing time.
WHY?
Some women may have a delayed breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. You can wear a prosthesis after the mastectomy until you have your reconstruction. Other women choose not to have the breast reconstructed due to various reasons.
A correctly fitted breast form will ensure that your body image is restored and will help with your posture, prevent shoulder drop and assist with your balance. In addition to this your clothes will fit well again and you will feel more confident and “whole” again.
A correctly fitted breast form will ensure that your body image is restored and will help with your posture, prevent shoulder drop and assist with your balance. In addition to this your clothes will fit well again and you will feel more confident and “whole” again.
WHO?
You will be seen by a female Orthotist in an caring environment where all your questions will be answered. Both Kryska and Samantha has been fully trained in helping you decide on the best breast for your body.
COSTS?
Most medical aids do pay for the prosthesis from your cancer and PMB Benift. Generally a medical aid will cover a breast prostheses every 2 years and 2-4 bras a year. We will handle all medical aid claims on your behalf. Bras for women who have had a reconstruction post mastectomy are also covered. The medical aids that currently only cover the breast prostheses are Prof Med and Bestmed - mastectomy bras for these 2 medical aids are for your own account. Cash prices are available so feel free to schedule anappointment for a needs assessment.
OPTIONS?
Partial or shaped prosthesis
A partial prosthesis is for women who have had part of their breast removed. It’s worn inside a bra and is shaped to fill out the breast outline. It’s made of the same silicone material as most full breast prostheses.
Stick-on prosthesis
A stick-on prosthesis (full or partial) sticks directly onto the skin. These can suit women who are active, or who want to wear a less supportive bra as not all of the weight is taken by the bra. They can also be worn with strapless dresses and tops if the clothing is supportive enough. Most women will be advised not to wear a stick-on prosthesis for the first few months after surgery or during (and sometimes after) radiotherapy as it may damage the skin. Most have a sticky surface as part of the prosthesis itself that can be worn attached directly to the chest wall or as a regular prosthesis with a protective backing in place.
Shell prosthesis
This is a type of partial prosthesis which 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.
Full or standard prosthesis
This prosthesis is designed to go straight against the chest wall where all breast tissue has been removed so the back of it is flat. It’s matched in size and shape to your remaining breast. If you’ve had both breasts removed you can select the size you feel most comfortable with.
BREAST CARE?
Hand wash your breast form/prosthesis with a mild soap that is safe for the skin at least once a week. Rinse thoroughly and towel dry. Store all silicone forms in the box and cradle that came with the form. Foam forms are also to be hand washed in mild soap and water Do not leave your breast forms in the sun to dry or exposed to heat higher than 45 degrees celcius.