Finding a Breast Prosthesis

At your first doctor’s appointment after surgery, your doctor can tell you where to get a bra with a fake breast, called a prosthesis. You may want a prosthesis if you have chosen not to have reconstructive surgery or you have decided to postpone reconstructive surgery. You shouldn’t start wearing the prosthesis until your wound has healed, about 6 to 10 weeks after surgery. You can choose from many different types. Some are filled with foam or liquid silicone. Some are self-adhering. They’re made to move, feel, and weigh similar to a normal breast. A prosthesis not only allows you to appear as you did before your surgery, it also helps balance the weight in your chest. This may help prevent neck or back pain if you have large breasts. Make sure the prosthesis fits properly and is a weight similar to your remaining breast. Insurance pays for most prostheses if you have a prescription or letter demonstrating medical necessity.

If you get a prosthesis, you may want a bra that has pockets to hold it. This prevents the prosthesis from rubbing against your skin and causing irritation. A soft bra, sometimes called a night bra, can be found in department stores. This kind of bra allows you to wear your prosthesis under your nightgown. Specialty companies also sell bras with the prosthesis built in as well as bras that can be temporarily attached to your chest wall with surgical glue. You should save the receipts from all these purchases and label them “surgical” in case your insurance company asks for them