Survivors

Wigs and Prostheses


The shape of a silicone prosthesis is more than a matter of appearance...
The prosthesis replaces the weight of the lost breast and helps restore the body's equilibrium and ease back, neck, and posture problems.  Also, shoulder muscles droop without the weight of a breast.  When fitted with a silicome breast prosthesis that matches in size to the remaining breast, the weight equilibrium of the body is kept in balance.  A prosthesis can be worn attached to the chest wall, inside the pocket of a mastectomy bra and/or regular bra, or against the skin.  Prostheses are available in many styles and sizes.

Helpful Hints for Prosthesis Purchase

You are ready to be fit for a prosthesis and surgical bra 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.  Your surgeon will recommend the appropriate time based on your healing.

  • Obtain a prescription from your physician for a silicone prosthesis and surgical bras for insurance purposes.  Always check with your insurance company to determine which post-mastectomy items are covered under your plan. Most insurers see a prosthesis and surgical bra as a medical necessity and will cover up to 80%, if not all the costs.  There may be a cap of the amount your insurance will pay.

  • A fitting takes up to one hour and involves personal assistance.  Schedule an appointment for your fitting with a “certified” fitter that can help you select the prosthesis which best suits your body type, breast shape and life style.  Always ask what the exchange and return policy is for that particular store.

  • At your first fitting appointment, wear a garment that fits properly, (a knit top, t-shirt or silk blouse) so that you can see the shape of your breast when trying on your new bra and prosthesis.

  • Your breast form-prosthesis-should be washed weekly using warm water and a mild soap.  Rinse the prosthesis and pat dry.  This prevents damage to the prosthesis from body oils, creams and perfumes.

  • Take special care when closing your prosthesis in a drawer or suitcase so as not to accidentally split the prosthesis. Storing the prosthesis in the cradle of the original box or carrying case will keep the shape of the breast form when you are not wearing it.

  • Take care when playing with pets, especially kittens because their claws can puncture the prosthesis through your clothing.  A small puncture can go unnoticed for weeks. Most breast prostheses has a two-year warranty. 


Helpful Hints for Post Mastectomy Bras

  • The surgical bra should hug your chest wall not riding up your back.  The breast tissue of the existing breast should be contained in the cup of the bra.  The silicone prosthesis for the surgical side can be sized to appropriately match your other breast.


  • If there is still some tenderness or swelling during the healing process, a bra extender can be used to increase the circumference of the bra so as to not bind the chest too tightly.The band of the bra should fit snug but not tight and straps should not cut into your shoulders.


  • The bras should be laundered in a laundry bag on gentle cycle and hung to dry.


  • The correct bra may very well be the one that you have always worn.  In that case, your regular bra can be adapted by having a pocket sewn into the cup.  Some specialty shops will sew pockets into your regular bras and swimsuits for a fee.


Prosthesis and Post Surgery Garments Store List

This is a partial listing of some stores that specialize in or carry breast prostheses. The listing is by no means complete, nor is it intended to endorse any of these businesses. It is for your information and convenience. Your physician will determine when you have healed sufficiently to be fitted for prostheses. A physician’s prescription for a prosthesis and bra is usually necessary for you to obtain reimbursement from your health insurance. Your health insurance may be contracted with specific stores. You may want to check with your insurance company prior to shopping for your garments.

Just Like A Woman
6333 SW Macadam Ave. Suite 102
Portland, OR 97239
503-246-7000
www.justlikeawoman.com
Tues-Fri, 10am-6pm
Sat-10am-5pm

Ladies First Choice, Inc.
2375 Grear Street NE
Salem, OR  97301
503-363-3940 / 800-300-3940
Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm

Mary Catherine’s Daughters
4042 NE Sandy Blvd
Portland, OR 97212
503-281-6986
www.marycatherines.com
Mon-Fri, 9:30am-5pm
Sat, 10am-4pm

Nordstrom
Clackamas Town Center - 503-652-1810
Downtown Portland - 503-224-6666
Lloyd Center - 503-287-2444
Salem Center - 503-371-7710
Vancouver Mall -360-256-8666
Washington Square - 503-620-0555

Saffron’s Specialized Medical
13215 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Suite C-4
Vancouver, WA 98684
360-256-1111
SaffronsMedical.com
Mon-Fri, 9am -7pm
Sat, 9am-5pm
1221 23rd St SE, Suite 150
Salem, OR 97302
503-339-7094
SaffronsMedical.com
Mon-Fri, 9am-7pm
Portland:
1-877-342-8683
By appointment only

Softee USA – Prosthetic Camisoles
Order direct from company
www.Softee USA.com
Order Desk - 866-605-8585

Transitions – An Appearance Center
Two locations in Portland:
Providence St. Vincent Medical Center
503-216-8502
Providence Cancer Center
503-215-8998                                                         
Tues–Fri, 10 am-4pm

Tuality Medical Equipment & Supply
333 SE Seventh Ave, Suite 1200
Hillsboro / 503-681-1658   Ext.1671
Mon-Thurs, 9am-5:30pm
Fri, 9am-7pm

The American Cancer Society
Portland – 503-795-3906
Free breast prostheses
(May have been used)
Call for an appointment

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