An external breast prosthesis is used to replace the look and weight of the natural breast of a woman. This imbalance may be due to a mastectomy, lumpectomy or genetic anomaly. A breast prosthesis is made from silicone gel, foam or fiberfill depending on the desired weight and shape. There are partial prosthesis available for those who only need a portion of their breast shape filled in. A prosthesis should be worn in a pocket of a post-mastectomy bra in order to keep it in place.
The post-mastectomy bras have pockets in the cups to help hold a breast form in place. The bra can be worn without a prosthesis and function as a regular bra.
It is important for women to wear a breast prostheis post-surgery. Uneveness in the breasts due to a single mastectomy or lumpectomy may lead to chronic neck and back pain due to unbalanced weight. Even those who have needed bilateral surgery should wear prosthesis in order to replace the weight and shape that has been lost. Also, women may feel insecure about their body image due to the loss of a breast; and forms replace the shape and weight of the natural breast to support positive self-image.
The silicone breast forms are under manufacturer's warrenty for 2-years which fits most insurance coverage guidelines. If within two-years the prosthesis splits at the seam or begins to form air bubbles for inexplicable reasons, we can send it back to the manufacturer to review for a replacement. A non-silicone breast form is usually covered every 6 months. If well taken care of, these products can last many years.
Experts say that bras should be replaced every 3-6 months. Some insurance companies will only provide coverage for 4 bras a year which should be sufficient as long as they are well taken care of.
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