
A breast prosthesis or breast form is an artificial
breast that is used after a surgery in which the breast
has been altered or removed. Whether the loss of the
breast is permanent or temporary, a breast form can
be worn to simulate the natural breast and body shape.
Full breasts and partial breasts, known as equalizers,
can be purchased to balance the appearance depending
on what type of surgical procedure
was performed. These forms come
in a variety of materials (usually
silicone, foam or fiberfill)
and they can be worn inside a
bra or attached to the body with
a special adhesive.
Many women who have been treated
for breast cancer have had
a surgery that leads to an
alteration in their physical
appearance. Sometimes these
alterations are permanent;
they may be temporary if reconstruction
is scheduled for a later time.
The common types of surgeries
include:
- Lumpectomy - removal of a
breast tumor and some of the
breast Modified/Simple
- Mastectomy - removal of the
breast tissue Radical Mastectomy
- surgical removal of breast
tissue and underlying muscle.
A silicone breast prosthesis
is weighted and simulates the
natural breast. One of its advantages
is that it helps the human body
to be symmetrical again and to
remain in balance. When the body
is out of balance following a
surgery of this kind, other muscle-skeletal
problems can develop. Back, neck
and shoulder problems are common
as well as a tendency for one
shoulder to drop downward and
inward while the other rises
up.
Wearing a breast prosthesis is
a personal choice. Many women
want to wear one because they
want to wear the same clothing
that they wore prior to the surgery
and they want to look symmetrical.
There are other advantages to
having a breast prosthesis: it
can
- give you warmth
- protect your chest and scars
- balance your posture
- keep your bra from shifting
or riding up
- help prevent problems with
curvature of the spine, shoulder
drop, and muscular pain in
the neck and back.
It is a good idea to consult
your physician. It varies for
each woman depending on her surgery
and healing. Most women will
be able to wear a prosthesis
(breast form) within 2-8 weeks
after her surgery. Camisoles
that have soft attachable prostheses
can be worn immediately after
surgery until the surgical site
is healed.
There
are many different brands of
prostheses and mastectomy apparel.
The most important concern
is finding one that is comfortable
and fits your body. Come in or
arrange for an appointment
in your home, or place your
order by phone. Our comfortable
salon provides a private setting
with our nurses and factory-trained
staff. We are always ready to
assist you with any questions
or concerns. Please call 718-996-9088 to
find out more. We can assist
you with an in-store fitting
at 2965 Ocean Pkwy, Suite 507,
Brooklyn, New York. |