After a mastectomy, you might be eager to find the right breast prosthesis — an artificial form that resembles the breast. Today, there are more options than ever.

In this article, we’ll walk through six common types of breast forms, what each one offers, and how to find the right fit for your body and lifestyle.

What Is a Mastectomy Breast Form?

A mastectomy breast form is worn inside a bra or attached to the chest. It helps replace the shape of a breast that was removed during surgery.

Some people may opt for breast reconstruction surgery or breast implants after a mastectomy. Others who choose to remain flat may want a prosthesis that’s worn externally. Even with breast reconstruction, an external prosthetic can sometimes be helpful.

In addition to helping enhance your appearance by providing a more natural and balanced look, other reasons to consider a breast prosthesis include:

• Preventing musculoskeletal and posture problems
• Staying warm
• Protecting your chest wall and surgical scars
• Keeping your bra in place

Once you’ve decided a breast prosthesis is right for you, the next step is exploring the many options available.

What Types of Breast Forms Are Out There?

Several types of breast prostheses are available. Finding one that helps you look and feel your best can be an important step in recovery from breast cancer surgery.

Most breast forms are made of soft silicone gel. A silicone prosthesis, or silicone breast, generally has the consistency and weight of a natural breast.

Breast prostheses can also be made out of foam or fiberfill, which may be preferred for hot weather or exercise.

Here are the various types of breast prostheses you may want to consider.

Soon after you have breast surgery, your breast care nurse will likely give you a temporary breast prosthesis, sometimes called a “softy” or “comfie.”

This soft, lightweight type of prosthesis can be sewed or pinned into a bra cup while you’re healing after surgery. Once your surgical incision has healed, you’ll likely be fitted for a more permanent prosthetic option.

A silicone breast prosthesis is the most common type of long-term mastectomy breast form. These forms closely match the weight and movement of natural breasts.

Silicone forms come in different shapes, sizes, and skin tones. They can be worn inside a regular bra or a special mastectomy pocketed bra or be attached with adhesive.

There are also special silicone breast forms available that are designed to be lighter and worn for activities like swimming.

For comfort, especially in warmer weather or during physical activity, some may choose a more lightweight mastectomy form made of foam or fiberfill. These nonsilicone forms are usually lighter and cooler than silicone options.

Foam breast forms can be worn inside a pocketed bra, and they should be replaced about twice a year.

Some forms are filled with small polypropylene beads or specialized materials to allow airflow and reduce sweating.

An adhesive breast form sticks directly to your chest wall using adhesive strips. This type is also known as contact prostheses.

Adhesive forms can be worn with a regular bra and must be cleaned regularly so they remain sticky. Adhesive forms may not be suitable right after surgery, as your mastectomy incision sites must be healed properly.

A custom mastectomy prosthesis is designed specifically to fit your body. These are often made out of silicone and molded to match your chest shape.

Custom options can closely replicate skin tone, size, and contour to fit on the chest wall precisely. These options may be beneficial for those who experience friction or stress on the chest wall with other prosthetic choices.

Custom-made breast prostheses can be more expensive than other options, but they usually last longer.

Artificial or prosthetic nipples can be used alone on the chest or with another breast prosthesis to create a realistic look. They’re often secured in place with adhesive or special skin glue.

You can choose from a variety of prosthetic nipples based on your preferred skin tone and size, or there are custom options available.

Nipple prosthesis may be especially helpful if you’ve chosen not to have either a nipple-sparing mastectomy or other types of mastectomy that leave the nipple and skin of the breast intact while removing breast tissue.

How To Choose the Right Mastectomy Breast Form

Choosing the right mastectomy prosthetics depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and stage of recovery.

Some questions you may want to consider:

• Do you prefer natural weight or something lighter?
• Do you need options for exercise or other activities?
• Will you wear a breast form only some of the time or all the time?
• Do you plan on wearing a breast form with a bra?
• Does it match your body shape?
• Will you be wearing it in hot weather?

You may want to work with a certified mastectomy fitter, a trained healthcare professional who specializes in postmastectomy breast forms. A certified mastectomy fitter can help you find the best size, shape, and materials for your individual needs.

When Can You Start Wearing a Breast Form?

Most people start with a temporary form immediately after mastectomy surgery since these forms are soft and don’t put too much pressure on the incision site.

Once the surgical site has healed, you may consider a more permanent option, like a silicone or nonsilicone option. Your doctor will determine when you’re ready for a more permanent breast prosthesis, which is generally six to eight weeks after surgery.

A permanent prosthesis typically lasts about two years, but it requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Does Insurance Cover Mastectomy Prosthesis?

Many insurance plans, including Medicare in the U.S., help cover the cost of prosthetic breasts after mastectomy.

Insurance coverage may vary depending on your specific provider, but in general, most provide:

• Between two to four mastectomy bras each year
• New nonsilicone or foam breast forms every six months
• New silicone forms about every two years

Talk to your health insurance company or Medicare about your insurance plan’s coverage for breast prostheses.

Join the Conversation

On MyBCTeam, people share their experiences with breast cancer, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

What type of mastectomy breast form has worked best for you, and why? Let others know in the comments below.