Breast Forms / Prosthesis

What is a Breast Prosthesis?

Breast Forms / Prosthesis: Finding the Right Fit for You

After breast surgery, whether you’ve had a mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery, you may be considering a breast prosthesis to help restore balance and symmetry under your clothing. At Bra Fitting Wisdom, we understand that every woman’s experience is unique, and we’re here to help you find the breast form that fits your body, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

A breast prosthesis is typically made from medical-grade silicone and can be worn in a pocketed bra or attached directly to your skin. Designed to look and feel like a natural breast, prostheses come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials to suit different needs.

Gillian Horton holding a breast form at Bra Fitting Wisdom in the Adelaide Hills

A breast prosthesis is typically made from medical-grade silicone and can be worn in a pocketed bra or attached directly to your skin. These prostheses are shaped and weighted to closely resemble a natural breast and are designed to restore balance and confidence after breast surgery.

Prostheses can be worn inside bras and specially-designed tops that have pockets, or they can be attached directly to the skin.

When Can I Start Wearing a Prosthesis?

In the early weeks after surgery, a temporary soft prosthesis is typically recommended. This light, comfortable prosthesis is often made from foam or other soft materials and can be worn in a post-surgical or front-opening bra. It’s especially helpful while your body is still healing or if your skin is sensitive from radiation therapy.

Once your body has healed—usually about two months after surgery—you can be fitted for a permanent breast prosthesis. Your breast care nurse or surgeon can guide you on the right time to begin wearing a prosthesis based on your healing progress.

Breast Forms / Prosthesis: Finding the Right Fit for You

There are different types of prostheses available to meet the needs of every woman:

  • Temporary Soft Prostheses: Made from foam, fibre fill, or fleece, these prostheses are designed for short-term use during the healing process.
  • Permanent Breast Prostheses: These are typically made from medical-grade silicone and designed for long-term wear. They are available in a range of shapes and sizes to match your natural breast, and they can be worn in a bra pocket or attached directly to the skin. Silicone prostheses are often weighted to balance your body, helping you feel comfortable and supported.
  • Partial Prostheses (Balance Shapers): If you’ve had breast-conserving surgery, a partial prosthesis can help you regain breast symmetry by filling in the area where tissue has been removed. These prostheses come in various shapes, such as triangles, ovals, curves, or shells, to match your breast’s natural shape.

Types of Prostheses: Weight and Feel

  • Standard Silicone Prostheses: These prostheses are designed to be similar in weight to your remaining breast. They provide balance and comfort when worn in a supportive bra.
  • Lightweight Prostheses: About 20–40% lighter than standard silicone prostheses, these are ideal for wearing during sports.
  • Customisable Prostheses: Some newer designs, like the Amoena Adapt Air Breast Form, feature integrated air chamber technology, which allows the breast form size to be adjusted by simply adding or releasing air at any time.

Benefits of Wearing a Breast Prosthesis

  • Restore Symmetry: A breast prosthesis helps you achieve a balanced, natural look under your clothing.
  • Non-Surgical Option: Avoid the risks and recovery time associated with reconstruction surgery.
  • Versatility: Prostheses can be worn with different types of clothing, including during sports.
  • Cost Effective: Medicare covers part of the cost for new or replacement prostheses.
  • Temporary or Permanent Use: Wear a prosthesis while waiting for reconstruction or during treatment such as radiation or chemotherapy.
  • Custom Fit: Prostheses can be matched to your breast size and easily replaced if needed.

Finding the Right Prosthesis for You

Everyone’s body is different, which is why breast prostheses come in a variety of:

  • Shapes: Triangles, circles, and teardrops to suit your natural breast shape.
  • Cup Sizes: Shallow, average, or full to match the structure and movement of your remaining breast.
  • Skin Tones: Different shades to closely match your skin.

Your fitter will help guide you through the different options available, ensuring you find a prosthesis that feels comfortable, looks natural, and suits your lifestyle. The type of prosthesis that’s best for you will depend on the amount and location of tissue removed during surgery.

Medicare Reimbursement for Prostheses

If you’re a permanent resident of Australia and eligible for Medicare, you can receive reimbursement for the cost of a new or replacement breast prosthesis every two years. Medicare’s External Breast Prostheses Reimbursement Program offers up to $400 per prosthesis, and if you’ve had a bilateral mastectomy, you can claim reimbursement for two prostheses.

How to Buy a Breast Prosthesis

It’s important to work with a trained fitter to find the right prosthesis.

At Bra Fitting Wisdom in Adelaide and Colleen’s in Canberra, our experienced fitters will take the time to understand your needs and help you find the best prosthesis for your body and lifestyle.

We’ll guide you through the available options and help you feel confident in your choice.

At Bra Fitting Wisdom and Colleen’s, we’re dedicated to helping you find the perfect fit for your body. We’re here to support you every step of the way. 

You can book an appointment at either of our stores Bra Fitting Wisdom  Adelaide or Colleen’s in Canberra.

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