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Post Mastectomy Solutions > Commonly Asked Questions
Dealing with the
emotional and physical aftermath of breast surgery, whether
major or minor, can be overwhelming for many women. Before the
surgery, your femininity and self confidence were oftentimes
expressed by how you looked and felt each day. Now you have so
many questions about your self image that you may wonder what to
do next. There are several options for you, one being an
external breast prostheses.
Why should I choose an external breast prosthesis?
It is wonderful that today women have options after breast
surgery. Your physician may discuss reconstruction or implants,
but for some women an external prosthesis is preferable to
additional surgeries. Depending on your age, physical condition
and breast size, an external prosthesis may be the best solution
to help balance the body. External breast forms are far less
expensive than additional surgeries and a form can be easily
changed if you gain or lose weight. There are now hundreds of
styles from which to choose that fit all body and skin types and
thousands of dealers nationwide to help in the fitting process.
How soon after surgery should I be fitted with a permanent
external prosthesis?
Your doctor will tell you when you are ready to be fitted. This
may be from four to six or eight weeks after surgery. The chest
wall has to heal and the soreness decrease.
What types of prosthesis are on the market?
There are two basic types, weighted (having weight to them) and
non-weighted.
Which type will I wear first?
It depends on the woman. You may wish to wear a lightweight foam
form to fill out a leisure or after surgery bra until you are
fitted with a permanent weighted prosthesis.
Why do I need a weighted breast prosthesis (form) after breast
surgery?
A properly fitted breast prosthesis helps replace the weight
lost after breast surgery. This replacement is not merely for
cosmetic or psychological reasons but for physical reasons as
well. When a natural breast is removed the body is no longer in
balance and will compensate with slight curving of the spine and
"shoulder drop." Both conditions may lead to chronic lower back
and neck pain.
If
I am very small breasted or had partial surgery such as a
lumpectomy, do I still need a weighted breast prosthesis?
Yes. Even if you are small breasted you should replace the
weight. You will also need the weight to help hold your bra in
lace around the rib cage. A light non-weighted form adds shaping
in a bra but may slip up during certain movements.
Of what are most prosthesis made?
The majority of weighted breast prostheses are made of silicone
gel.
Is this the same material as found in former breast implants?
Similar but not the same since external breast prostheses are
"cured" in a manufacturing process and are not in a liquid
state.
Are there different styles of breast prostheses?
Yes, symmetrical (can be turned to fit either side of the body)
and asymmetrical (fits only the right or left side).
Which style is better?
Each style fits a specific need and figure type. We can help you
choose.
If a breast prosthesis tears or is punctured, does the silicone
hurt the skin or the body?
No, the silicone cannot be absorbed through the skin.
What type of bra can be worn with an external prosthesis?
There are bras called mastectomy or surgical bras. These bras
are designed with cup pockets to hold the breast form in place
and are cut wider under the arm and across the chest. After a
mastectomy it is important to be measured and fit by a
professional breast prosthesis fitter. Adaptations has certified
Nearly Me Fitters on staff. Fashion bras have not been designed
to meet your specific needs.
Are prosthesis covered by private insurance?
Generally yes, check with your insurance company for individual
coverage.
Are prosthesis covered by Medicare and Medicaid?
Yes, but allowables are different by state. For more information
about how Adaptations can help you file your Medicare claim,
click here.
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