What is a breast prosthesis and how do I wear it?

A breast prosthesis is an artificial breast that fits inside your bra or camisole. A well fitting prosthesis can correct the weight imbalance you may experience after your breast (or breasts) has been removed. It can help by allowing you to regain your natural shape and wear clothes comfortably.

A breast prosthesis can be an important factor in your recovery from surgery. It can be as important for your well being as it is for your posture, balance and comfort.

There are several types of breast prostheses:

• Temporary breast prostheses. After your surgery, while you are healing, you may be given a temporary breast prosthesis. This is usually made of lamb’s wool. You can wear it straight after your surgery even if the area is tender. You can obtain a temporary prosthesis by contacting the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.
• Permanent breast prostheses. A permanent breast prosthesis is usually made of silicone gel and is worn inside your bra or camisole. Permanent breast prostheses are available in a range of sizes, shapes and weights to meet your individual needs. You can be fitted for a permanent prosthesis about six to eight weeks after surgery as long as any swelling has decreased and the area has healed well. If you have had radiotherapy as a follow-up treatment, you may need to wait about four weeks after this is completed before being fitted with your prosthesis, as the area may still be sensitive.
• Partial prostheses. If you have had part of your breast removed you may find that the shape of your bra becomes difficult to fill. You may need a partial prosthesis and a trained prosthesis fitter can help you with this.

How do I wear a prosthesis?

There are many types of bras and camisoles available that already have pockets inserted in them to hold your prosthesis. You don’t always need to buy a mastectomy bra. If you have a bra that is well fitting pockets can be sewn into the bra to hold your prosthesis.

Many women find that their regular bathers need little or no adjustment. Pockets can be sewn into them if required. Specially designed fashionable swimwear that includes bra pockets for the prosthesis, wide straps and higher necklines are also available.

How do I care for my prosthesis?

A prosthesis is made of waterproof silicone gel. You can wear your prosthesis in your bathers for swimming. However some manufacturers recommend that the prosthesis is not worn in a sauna or spa. Most prostheses have a one to two year warranty, but they usually last longer than two years.

Where can I buy a breast prosthesis?

A number of metropolitan and country stores are able to fit you with a suitable prosthesis and also for a bra and bathers if required. If you are unable to access the store yourself a free home service may be available to help you. Call the Council Helpline on 13 11 20 for more information.

Can I get financial assistance to purchase a prosthesis?

Women who are permanent residents of Australia, have a current Medicare entitlement and have had a mastectomy as a result of breast cancer, are eligible to claim reimbursement through Medicare. The mastectomy may be recent or in the past.

Women are able to claim up to $400 for each new or replacement breast prosthesis. They will need to complete a claim form which is available from any Medicare office or from their website at medicareaustralia.gov.au and attach receipt as proof of purchase.

Subsequent reimbursements can be claimed no earlier than two years from the date of the last purchase. This applies for each prosthesis for each breast.

If you currently receive financial assistance from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) you may be able to claim entitlements through DVA.

For private health cover, clients can claim the difference between the amount reimbursed by health fund and the Medicare entitlement. Reimbursements are made by electronic funds transfer into a nominated bank account.

For more information visit the Medicare website as above, Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20, or visit any Medicare office.

(Source: Cancer Council Western Australia)

Pink Ribbon Day fast facts

• Monday, 24th October, 2011 is Pink Ribbon Day
• Website URL: http://www.pinkribbonday.com.au
• Info line: 1300 65 65 85
• The pink ribbon is the international symbol of support for women with breast cancer 

More information

For more information on breast cancer, types of breast cancer and its investigations and treatments, as well as some useful videos, see Breast Cancer.