About Breast Forms and Bras

For women who have had a mastectomy, breast forms are an important alternative to breast reconstruction. Some women may not want further surgery, knowing that breast reconstruction can require several procedures to complete.

Your doctor will tell you when you have healed enough to be fitted for a permanent breast form or prosthesis. Most of these forms are made from materials that approximate the movement, feel, and weight of natural tissue. A properly weighted form provides the balance your body needs for correct posture and anchors your bra, preventing it from riding up.

At first, these forms may feel too heavy, but in time they will feel natural. Prices vary considerably. High price doesn't necessarily mean that the product is the best for you. Take time to shop for a good fit, comfort, and an attractive, natural appearance in the bra and under clothing. Your clothes should fit the way they did before surgery.

The right bra for you may very well be the one you have always worn. It may or may not need adjustments. If there is tenderness during healing, a bra extender can help by increasing the circumference of the bra so that it does not bind the chest too tightly. Heavy-breasted women can relieve pressure on shoulder straps by slipping a bra shoulder pad under one or both straps.

If you decide to wear your breast form in a pocket in your bra, you can have your regular bra adapted. There are also special mastectomy bras with the pockets already sewn in. If the breast form causes any kind of skin irritation, use a bra with a pocket. If your bra has underwires, you may be able to wear it, but be sure to clear this with your doctor.

You might want to wear your prosthesis under nightgowns but would like something more comfortable than a regular bra. Most department stores carry a soft bra, sometimes called a leisure or night bra.

Be sure to read your insurance policy to see what is covered and how you must submit claims. Also, ask your doctor to write prescriptions for your prosthesis and for any special mastectomy bras. When purchasing bras or breast forms, mark the bills and any checks you write "surgical." Medicare and Medicaid can be used to pay for some of these expenses if you are eligible. The cost of breast forms and bras with pockets may be tax deductible. If you have a bra altered, the charge may be tax deductible.
Keep careful records of all related expenses. If you submit a claim for a prosthesis or bra to your insurance company, in some cases the insurance company WILL NOT cover reconstruction, should you choose this procedure in the future. Make sure you get all the facts before submitting any insurance claims.

Be sure to call your Reach to Recovery volunteer about any questions you have. She will give you suggestions, additional reading material, and advice. Remember that she's been there and will probably understand.