Breast Prosthesis: An Alternative to Reconstruction
If you decide that breast reconstruction isn’t right for you but still want a breast shape, a breast prosthesis, also called a breast form, can help you look balanced without surgery. You can use a breast prosthesis (or two prostheses, if you’ve had a double mastectomy) if you want the appearance of breasts but want to hold off on reconstruction or not have it at all.
A breast prosthesis is the fastest way to fill the space where your breast was. This is a big relief for many women, especially after losing a breast and making so many major decisions.
There are two main types of breast prostheses, and each may be right for you at different times and for different reasons:
1. Post-operative breast form
Is recommended when you’re recovering from surgery because it’s most comfortable. It is designed to be soft, feather-light and gentle on sensitive skin. It also feels good during work out and swimming.
2. Silicone breast prosthesis
May look more realistic and feel more natural to you for everyday wear. It is generally used 6-8 weeks after surgery. It can transform your silhouette, provide balance, and improve body confidence. Clothes will fit better giving a vital boost to your figure. The balanced-weight silicone breast prosthesis helps keep your shoulders even and your posture straight.
There are also partial breast prostheses (triangles, ovals, curves and shells) for women who have had breast-conserving surgery and want to regain breast symmetry. These are also called balance shapers.
As every woman’s body is different, prostheses are available in a variety of shapes (triangles, circles or teardrops) and cup sizes (shallow, average or full)
Symmetrical prostheses are even on both sides and can be worn on either the left or right side of the body. Asymmetric prostheses are designed specifically for the right or left side. Can-Care offers a wide range of breast prosthesis for various forms and shape. Can-Care experienced fitter will be able to guide you through the range of prostheses that are suitable for you.
What to consider – Breast Prosthesis
BENEFITS
- Can give you a more natural shape under clothes.
- Doesn't require further surgery, which has risks and a longer recovery time.
- Can be worn with different clothes, including during sports such as swimming.
- Medicare subsidises the cost.
- Can be replaced if it wears out or is damaged.
- Can be worn while you're waiting for reconstructive surgery or during chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment.
- Can be matched to your breast size to correct weight imbalance.
- Easy to change size (e.g. if the size of your other breast changes).
DRAWBACKS
- You may not like the idea of having an artificial breast.
- You may need to wear a special bra to keep the prosthesis in place.
- Requires special washing and storage instructions.
- You may need to make changes to your clothes or use accessories to accommodate the prosthesis.
- May be uncomfortable at times (e.g. heavy, hot or irritating), especially when playing sport.
- Can try our active form for your sport activities:
- If you aren't comfortable wearing a prosthesis, you may feel self-conscious or embarrassed, or concerned it will move or fall out.
- Needs to be replaced every few years.
Citations:
1. https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/reconstruction/prosthetics
2. https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/cancer-information/managing-cancer-side-effects/breast-prostheses-and-reconstruction/breast-prostheses/types/
3. https://www.cancervic.org.au/living-with-cancer/common-side-effects/breast-prostheses-and-reconstruction/breast-prosthesis-forms.html
