Survivors

Wigs and Prostheses

The shape of a silicone prosthesis is more than a matter of appearance. It 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.

Stores that specialize in Prostheses and Bras

Stores that specialize in Scarves and Wigs

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.