How to Choose the Breast Form That is Best for You

Postponing reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy – or opting out of it altogether- is an immensely personal decision. However, it may help you to learn that just as surgical reconstruction has advanced in recent years, the technology behind realistic and comfortable breast forms has as well.

As you explore breast prosthesis options in Arkansas, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the decisions involved in choosing a breast form. Knowing your prosthetic options and the process for choosing among them is a good first step.

Scheduling a Fitting

A consultation with the certified prosthesis fitters at Horton’s Orthotics & Prosthetics, which is free of charge, will include a professional fitting, as well as the chance to examine each of the potential breast forms. During your consultation, you can also discuss costs of the various breast form types, as well as insurance coverage.

Expect to spend about 45 minutes on the fitting process. Wear a top that is easy to change in and out of, but which is not so loose that you cannot see the shape of the various forms as you try them on.

In some cases, you may need more than one breast prosthetic. For example, if you are choosing a prosthesis to wear post-surgery, lightweight foam forms are traditional. After about a month, you can graduate to heavier breast prosthetics, such as silicon.

Consider Your Options

Your health care team can help you understand the various types of breast prosthesis in Arkansas, and which might work best for you. Among the choices you will likely be presented with are:

• Augmented camisoles. Many women prefer this option while they are still healing from their mastectomy procedure, because the breast forms do not directly touch the skin. Instead, the prosthetics are sewn into the camisole fabric itself. Similar versions are available for swimwear.
• Lightweight breast forms. This breast prosthetic is not as heavy as a silicone version, and is often preferred in the first weeks after a mastectomy. Because they are made of foam or fiberfill, their lightness is also ideal for workouts. These prosthetics are held in place with a customized bra.
• Silicone forms. Known for its ability to resemble human breasts in terms of feel and weight, silicone is a popular option for breast forms. Silicone breast prosthetics can be customized to resemble your skin tone and the size you stipulate, with the added option of realistic nipples. As with lightweight breast forms, the silicone versions are worn next to the skin, and held in place with a customized bra.
• Attachable breast forms. This breast form type is attached directly onto your chest, aided by adhesive strips. Attachable prosthetics do not require a specialized bra to hold them in place.

Our friendly, professional team is here to help you with your post-mastectomy choices, including breast forms. Contact Horton’s Orthotics & Prosthetics by calling 501-683-8889 to schedule a fitting, or for more information on breast form materials.