Choosing the Right Breast Prosthesis After a Mastectomy

Many surgical patients in Canada wait multiple months before choosing a permanent breast form. This waiting period allows your chest tissue to heal completely and swelling to disappear. When you feel ready, you have many options to help you regain your physical symmetry and confidence. The certified fitters at Home Health Care Pharmacy, Super Thrifty Drugs home medical division, can help you find the right fit for your body.

Understanding Your Choices After Surgery

Your journey usually begins with a temporary “softie” This is a lightweight, cotton filled form that you wear immediately after surgery. It does not put pressure on your incision site. Once your surgeon confirms that your skin has healed, you can transition to a permanent prosthesis. These forms mimic the weight of a natural breast, preventing your shoulders from drooping and keeping your spine aligned.

Common Types of Breast Forms

You might feel overwhelmed by the variety of shapes and materials available today. Each option serves a different purpose depending on your daily routine and physical comfort. You can find products that look like natural skin or lightweight versions for exercise.

• Silicone Forms  –  These feel the most like human tissue and warm up to your body temperature.
• Fiber-filled Forms – These are very light and work well if you have sensitive skin or lymphedema.
• Swim Forms – These resist chlorine and salt water and they do not get heavy when wet.
• Partial Shapers – These are smaller pieces that fill in gaps if you had a lumpectomy.

Modern silicone is durable and moves naturally when you walk – You can choose between symmetrical shapes that fit either side or asymmetrical shapes designed for the left or right side.

The Fitting Process

For best results, visit the certified fitters at Home Health Care Pharmacy. These caring and knowledgeable experts will measure your chest circumference and your remaining breast to ensure the prosthesis matches your size. During the appointment, you will try on different forms inside a mastectomy bra. These bras have sewn in pockets that hold the prosthesis securely. You’ll be able see how the weight feels and how the shape looks under a thin shirt.

Covering the Costs of Your Prosthesis

The Manitoba Breast Prosthesis Program covers the cost of breast prostheses and post-mastectomy bras for women who have undergone a lumpectomy or mastectomy. Our certified fitters will help patients to access the program, select suitable products, and provide the fittings through scheduled appointments.

Taking Care of Your Silicone Form

You must clean your prosthesis every day to keep it in good condition. Use mild, unscented soap and warm water to wash away sweat and oils. Dry it with a soft towel and store it in its original box at night so it keeps its shape. Avoid using pins near your prosthesis, as a small puncture will cause the silicone gel to leak. If you take care of it, a high quality form lasts about two to three years. Replace it sooner if you notice the outer film is thin or if your body weight changes significantly.

Do I need to buy special clothes?

You do not need an entirely new wardrobe – Mastectomy bras and pocketed swimwear are helpful but you can also have pockets sewn into your existing bras.

Will people be able to tell I am wearing a prosthesis?

No, a professional fitting ensures that the form matches your natural curve. Under your clothing, the prosthesis is indistinguishable from your other breast.