What are the different types of breast prostheses?
Oct 27th, 2023
Did you know that as of 2022, 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer, and over 300,000 of them opted for breast reconstruction? For those who choose not to undergo breast reconstruction, a breast prosthesis helps restore their symmetry, balance, and confidence.
A journey after breast cancer treatment involves many decisions, and selecting the right breast prosthesis is an important one. But what exactly is a prosthesis? Who may need it? And what are the different types available?
Stay right here as we unravel everything about
What is a breast prosthesis?
A breast prosthesis is an artificial breast form designed to replicate the size, shape, feel, and weight of a woman's natural breast. A breast prosthesis typically comes into play as a post-effect of breast cancer surgery. Manufacturers use silicone gel and other soft materials to design forms that have the natural look and feel of a breast.
Breast prostheses serve both physical and emotional purposes. Physically, they help balance the body's weight distribution, preventing potential issues like shoulder drop, back pain, and posture problems. Emotionally, they help restore body image and confidence, allowing women to wear their regular clothing comfortably without visible differences.
Breast prostheses are mostly preferred in instances where people:
- Don't want any more surgery after their treatment
- Have other health concerns that mean reconstruction is not an option
- Want to return to their daily lives as quickly as possible
- Prefer a non-surgical solution for breast restoration
Who may need a breast prosthesis?
A
- Women who have undergone a mastectomy may use a breast prosthesis as a substitute for breast reconstruction
- Women who have undergone partial breast removal or lumpectomy may choose a breast prosthesis to achieve symmetry
- Women who have undergone mastectomy may need a breast prosthesis for psychological benefits such as improved self-esteem and confidence
- Women may choose a breast prosthesis for financial reasons, as it is generally less expensive than reconstructive surgery
- Women who are not medically suitable candidates for reconstructive surgery
- Transgender women and cross-dressers may need a breast prosthesis to create the appearance of natural breasts
- Women who wish to evaluate their options before committing to reconstruction
The decision to use a breast prosthesis is deeply personal and depends on individual preferences, medical considerations, and lifestyle factors.
Different Types of Breast Prostheses
Breast prosthesis comes in different shapes, sizes and styles. The breast prosthesis that you choose determines your level of comfort and confidence. The most common types of breast prostheses available in the market are;
1. Silicone breast prosthesis
A silicone breast prosthesis is made of soft silicon to offer the natural feel of breast tissue. Silicone prosthesis are weighty in nature thus helping maintain posture, prevent shoulder drop, and problems with balance.
They are designed to have different shades that match with the skin tone, and are shaped to look natural under different garments. Silicone breast prostheses are ideal for long term use after scars have dried and healed.
Silicone breast prosthesis offer different options to meet a variety of post-surgery needs. For instance,Symmetrical option is ideal for women who have had bilateral surgeries and is designed to fit either the left or right side.
The Anita TriVaria Full Silicone Breast Form offers a natural look and feel with its soft silicone design, perfect for those with minimal breast tissue. Its flat back and tapered edges ensure a smooth transition to the skin, while the triangular shape and subtle nipple design provide a balanced, realistic bust silhouette.
2. Non-silicone breast prosthesis
A Non- silicone breast prosthesis is a lightweight breast form made from foam or fibrefill. They are ideal to be worn immediately after surgery as they are very gentle on sensitive skin.
Non-silicone breast prostheses can be worn during swimming, exercise and hot weather. They are cheaper as compared to silicone breast prostheses, and provide more comfort to the chest area during healing.
However, Non-silicone breast prostheses lack the natural weight and feel of breasts, and their quality may deteriorate with time, requiring more frequent replacement. They are excellent as a temporary solution or as a secondary breast prosthesis for specific activities. Non-silicone breast prostheses lack the natural feel of breasts,and their quality deteriorates with time, requiring frequent placement
3. Temporary breast prosthesis
Immediately after surgery, one is often given a temporary breast prosthesis, also known as a 'softie' or a 'comfie,' to wear during the initial healing period. These temporary forms are essential during the first 6-8 weeks post-surgery when the chest area is still sensitive and healing.
Made from materials like foam or fiberfill, temporary breast prostheses offer a gentle shape-enhancing solution that can be worn with a post-surgery bra. They are extremely lightweight and put minimal pressure on surgical sites. Temporary breast forms allow you to adjust gradually to your new body without the full weight of a permanent prosthesis.
Once the wound heals after 6-8 weeks, the temporary breast prosthesis is typically replaced with a permanent breast prosthesis that better matches your natural breast in weight and appearance.
4. Permanent breast prosthesis
Permanent forms are primarily made of silicone, and they come in different shapes, sizes, and colors to match your body type and skin tone.
They are molded to look like the natural breast of a woman, and their surface feels soft and smooth, often including a nipple outline. They are designed for everyday wear and long-term use, offering the most realistic appearance and feel among all prosthesis types.
Modern permanent breast prostheses incorporate advanced features like:
5. Temperature regulation technology to prevent overheating
6. Moisture-wicking backs for comfort in warm weather
7. Graduated edge technology for a seamless transition to the skin
8. Lightweight silicone options that maintain a natural feel with reduced weight
9. Attachable breast prosthesis
This variety features an adhesive backing that allows direct attachment to the chest wall. An attachable breast prosthesis creates a more secure and natural feel, as it moves with your body rather than shifting inside a bra pocket.
This option eliminates the need for special bras, allowing for a wider range of clothing choices and the confidence that it will stay in place during various activities. Many women find that an attachable prosthesis after breast cancer gives them greater freedom in clothing options, including lower-cut necklines and backless dresses.
However, while convenient, the adhesive may irritate sensitive skin, especially after surgery, and the prosthesis requires regular cleaning to keep the adhesive effective.
10. Shell prosthesis
This type of prosthesis is ideally used when one breast is smaller than the other, and it fits over the smaller breast. A shell prosthesis (sometimes called a shaper or enhancer) is made of materials such as silicone, foam, or fiberfill to create an even look under clothes.
The Amoena Balance Natura Thin Delta Breast Form is a slim, triangle-shaped silicone shaper, ideal for after breast-conserving surgery. It features a Comfort temperature-equalizing layer for all-day coolness. Designed to cover the entire breast at only 1 cm thick, it blends seamlessly with your body, while the small channels on the back allow for a snug fit and anatomical alignment.
Shell prostheses are particularly beneficial for women who have undergone lumpectomy, breast-conserving surgery, or have natural breast asymmetry. They help achieve a balanced appearance without covering the entire breast.
11. Prosthesis Nipples
Breast reconstruction surgery creates a smooth breast shape without a nipple. As a result, some women prefer to have stick-on prosthetic nipples. Nipple prostheses are made from silicone and can be worn on a breast prosthesis or a reconstructed breast to complete the natural appearance.
Prosthetic nipples are available in various sizes, shapes, and skin tones to match your individual needs. They either contain self-adhesive backing or require a special medical-grade adhesive that allows them to remain in place for several days at a time. You can easily attach and remove the nipple as needed, and wash it regularly to maintain hygiene.
Some women choose different prosthetic nipples for different occasions or outfits, allowing for versatility in appearance. Custom-colored prosthetic nipples are also available for a perfect match to your skin tone.
12. Custom made prosthesis
Custom made prostheses are breast forms tailored to meet an individual's body, shape, and size. It is ideal for people who want their own customised fits post surgery when off-the shelf options don't meet their preferences.
They enable enjoyment of benefits like a perfect match for your remaining breast in size, shape, and color, providing a natural look and feel. A customized prosthesis doesn’t move around and feels more like a part of you. They can be designed to accommodate any unique surgical outcomes, scars, or skin sensitivities.
Even though Custom made prosthesis offer the most personalized fits, they come at a higher cost compared to other varieties of breast prostheses.
The most common type of a custom made prosthesis is an ABC custom made prosthesis which offers a tailored fit that mirrors your body by incorporating expert opinions, advanced 3D scanning technology, and a blueprint used to handmake your prosthesis from high quality silicone.
13. Swim forms prosthesis
They are made of a lightweight pale blue silicon material that is 30% lighter than a standard prosthesis . Swim form prostheses are worn inside the pocket of a swimsuit, are resistant to chlorine and salt water due to their ability to dry quickly.
For instance, The Anita Active Swim Form is the perfect accessory for the pool, lake, or beach, designed with a ribbed structure for quick water drainage and preventing the forms from shifting upward due to buoyancy. Made entirely from silicone, it’s durable and designed to withstand frequent use, ensuring you can enjoy your activities with confidence and comfort.
Swim Forms allow women to participate fully in water activities without worrying about their prosthesis absorbing water or becoming damaged.
14. Camisole soft form prosthesis
Camisole soft breast prostheses are designed to be lightweight in order to fit into post-surgical camisoles or specialized undergarments. These forms are particularly useful during the initial healing phase after surgery when comfort is paramount.
A camisole with integrated soft breast prosthesis pockets provides gentle support and creates a natural silhouette while protecting sensitive surgical areas. Many women use these as their first step in restoring their appearance after surgery, even before they're ready for a more permanent solution.
15. Soft breast prosthesis
Soft breast prostheses are made from lightweight polyester in the front cover and cotton in the back cover. The cotton used is breathable to maintain an ideal back temperature, reducing perspiration and increasing comfort during extended wear.
A soft breast prosthesis is typically worn in pocketed mastectomy bras and is suitable for immediate use after surgery, during leisure activities, or while sleeping. The lightweight nature of a soft breast prosthesis makes it an excellent option for women who find silicone forms too heavy or uncomfortable.
Shop with Confidence at Mastectomy Shop!
At the Mastectomy Shop, we understand the emotional and physical aspects of selecting a breast prosthesis. Our team of certified fitters provides personalized consultations to help you find the perfect fit for your body and lifestyle. We offer a comprehensive selection of high-quality breast prostheses from leading manufacturers, ensuring you have options that meet your unique needs.
Browse our extensive collection online or call us today to schedule your personal fitting appointment. Regain your confidence and comfort with the right breast prosthesis from Mastectomy Shop – your trusted partner in post-mastectomy care.
