Breast prostheses (breast pitheses) are intended for women who are unable to rebuild the breast after a mastectomy. They are usually made of silicone – a well-tolerated plastic, which is very similar to the breast tissue in terms of consistency and vibration behavior. There are now many different models of breast prostheses, such as self-adhesive prostheses and prosthetic bras. Read more about breast prostheses here!
Advantages of breast prostheses
Outer breast prostheses hide the absence of a breast after a cancerous amputation (mastectomy). There are also partial dentures that replace missing breast volume after a breast conserving surgery.
Breast prostheses can boost the self-esteem of breast cancer patients. They also have other advantages:
- They restore upper body symmetry (especially if the remaining breast is very large).
- They prevent malposition and tension of the neck, shoulder and back muscles.
Different types of breast prostheses
Meanwhile, various breast prosthesis models are on the market. For initial care after a mastectomy usually simpler models of cotton or foam are used. They are inserted into the bra, are soft and protect the scar tissue. Later you can switch to silicone prostheses.
Many women wear a special bra after breast surgery: Here, the breast prosthesis is pushed into the pocket for it. Prosthesis bras have extra-wide straps to keep the tissue from being constricted and not obstructing lymph drainage. There are also special bathing suits, in which the breast prostheses can also be inserted.
There are also self-adhesive breast prostheses. However, such models should not be used until the surgical scar has completely healed and radiotherapy has been completed (radiation makes the skin more sensitive).
High-quality breast prostheses can also be fitted with individually fitting, artificial nipples (nipples).
Breast prostheses: advice and costs
Breast prostheses are available in medical supply stores. Let the staff advise you on choosing a suitable model. Because the decision depends on various factors such as the type of surgery, the current state of therapy (radiation, chemotherapy), the shape and size of the existing breast and any concomitant diseases.
Your subjective feelings regarding the different models as well as your lifestyle should also be taken into account when selecting the breast prosthesis. Take your time to decide – the prosthesis should be comfortable and comfortable to wear.
The statutory health insurance companies cover the costs of a breast prosthesis and, on a pro rata basis, the costs of necessary special bras and special swimsuits. Private insured patients should pay the costs before purchasing breast prostheses and discuss the appropriate laundry with your health insurance.