Since 1997
When facing life after breast surgery, finding the best breast prosthesis after mastectomy can be an important step in your recovery journey. The right artificial breast after surgery doesn’t just restore physical appearanceโit can help rebuild confidence and bring a renewed sense of normalcy to daily life.
This guide aims to provide practical advice on how to choose the correct breast form after a mastectomy, from understanding your options to finding the perfect fit. Whether you’re recovering from surgery in a state of confusion or considering a new prosthesis for your existing one, these suggestions will give you confidence in making this vital choice.
Why Choosing the Right Breast Form Matters
Finding the best breast prosthesis after mastectomy goes beyond aesthetics. The correct breast form can:
- Help balance your posture and prevent potential back and neck problems
- Restore confidence in your appearance
- Ensure comfort throughout your daily activities
- Make sure the clothes fit well
- Nurture your emotional health during your recovery
Many women have told us that finding the right artificial breast after surgery has been a highlight on their road to recovery. The best breast prosthesis after mastectomy fits into your daily routine effortlessly. It provides a comfortable fit that becomes second nature, yet provides enough shape and balance to help you regain your confidence.
Types of Breast Forms to Consider
Understanding the different types of breast forms available is crucial when learning how to choose the right breast form after a mastectomy. Each type has its specific benefits:
Silicone Breast Prostheses
Silicone breast forms are the most popular option, providing a natural feel. A silicone artificial breast for cancer patients mimics natural breast tissue’s weight, movement, and feel.
- Benefits: Realistic look and natural movement; maintains body balance.
- Considerations: Heavier than other options; requires proper care
Specialized retailers offer silicone breast forms in Florida, and professional fitting services are available at A Fitting Experience to ensure the perfect match for your body.
Foam/Fiberfill Forms
They are also great to wear immediately after surgery and great for sleeping and relaxing.
- Benefits: It is soft, touch-sensitive, and cheaper.
- Considerations: Less realistic; may not provide adequate balance
Partial Forms (Shapers)
For women who’ve undergone lumpectomy or partial mastectomy, shapers can fill out unevenness.
- Benefits: Restores symmetry while preserving natural tissue
- Considerations: Requires precise fitting to match remaining breast tissue
Attachable/Adhesive Forms
These tops are meant to hug the chest closely, making a pocketed bra unnecessary.
- Benefits: Freedom to wear various necklines; feels secure
- Considerations: Healthy, full-healing skin is required, with special care.
Custom Forms
For women having difficulty finding a comfortable fit among available options, bespoke shapes offer a customized alternative.
- Benefits: Perfect match to body contours; ideal for challenging fit situations
- Challenges: Increased cost; prolonged waiting time.
How to Choose the Right Breast Form After a Mastectomy
Finding the best breast prosthesis after mastectomy involves several considerations:
Timing is Everything
Most surgeons recommend waiting 6-8 weeks after surgery before being fitted for a permanent prosthesis. During the healing period, temporary soft forms can provide comfort and shape.
Seek Professional Fitting
A certified mastectomy fitter can:
- Take proper measurements
- Recommend forms that match your body type
- Demonstrate how to wear a breast prosthesis correctly
- Help you find pocketed bras or attachable options
Consider Your Lifestyle
Think about your daily routine:
- Do you regularly exercise? A light version might be the best one
- Do you swim? Choose specialized swim forms
- What do you prefer, fashion-wise? That may affect not only the style of hold but also your silhouette.
Test for Comfort
The best breast prosthesis after mastectomy should feel comfortable throughout the day:
- Try on forms while standing, sitting, and moving around
- Check that the weight feels balanced
- Ensure no pressure points or irritation occur.
Match Your Natural Shape
Matching the remaining breast’s shape, size, and color is crucial for women with one breast. For a bilateral mastectomy, consider your frame and previous breast size to determine what feels most natural to you.
How to Wear a Breast Prosthesis Comfortably
Learning the correct method of wearing a breast prosthesis is good for comfort. A well-fitting mastectomy bra that includes a pocket is necessary for safely holding most artificial breasts worn by cancer survivors. These bras:
- Securely hold the form in place
- Distribute weight comfortably
- Provide additional help
- They usually have wider straps and soft materials.
- Lightweight designs are ideal for activewear and exercise.
Insurance and Cost Considerations
Understanding surgically placed breasts’ insurance coverage is essential.
Insurance coverage
Most health insurance, including Medicare, covers:
- A year, one or two breast forms, as per plan
- Several mastectomy bras per year
- Replacements when medically necessary
For optimal coverage:
- Obtain a prescription from your physician.
- Whenever possible, choose network providers.
- Maintain accurate records of all medical expenses incurred.
When Insurance Falls Short
For those in Florida who are seeking Silicone Breast Forms without adequate coverage:
- Several cancer aid organizations offer financial aid
- Some manufacturers provide payment options or aid schemes.
- Think about contacting cancer societies in the area for worthwhile information.
Long-term Considerations
Quality breast forms typically need replacement every 2-3 years. Factor this into your financial planning, along with specialized bras and accessories.
Conclusion
Finding the best breast prosthesis after mastectomy is an intensely personal quest, weaving together practicality with emotional healing. By taking the time to research your options and find that ideal fit, you can regain confidence and comfort in the wake of breast surgery.
Remember that learning how to choose the correct breast form after a mastectomy and how to wear a breast prosthesis involves trying out various possibilities and getting accustomed to a new regimen, along with mastering the use of a prosthesis. Be kind to yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from trained fitters, support groups, and your physician.
Are you ready to find your match? Arrange for a visit with an expert mastectomy fitter at A Fitting Experience today and explore the vast selection available for breast forms. Multiple retail outlets throughout Florida and beyond, specializing in silicone breast forms, offer one-on-one private consults where you can try various styles in a comfortable and supportive environment.