Why do I need a breastform after breast surgery?
A properly fitted silicone breast prosthesis will mimic a natural breast in terms of shape and feel. It also gives you a more natural outline, helps to restore body confidence and improve body symmetry after surgery.
My silicone prosthesis feels too heavy – is there anything lighter?
A reduced-weight form might be the answer, but first check your bra – with the ‘right’ bra, prosthesis weight is rarely a problem. If you still feel it is too heavy or you simply want a lighter form for comfort or convenience, there are plenty available. Most major brands now include ‘reduced-weight’ forms within their range. These weigh at least 25% less than a standard form. If you do not know whether your current form is a ‘reduced-weight’ one or not then we are more than happy to answer queries on any type of prosthesis.
I am told I cannot wear my silicone prosthesis for swimming – is this right?
Not neccesarily. Most silicone prostheses are safe for swimming as they are waterproof and not usually harmed by salt or chlorine. Where we have stipulated a prosthesis is unsuitable for swimming it could be due to the soft texture of the outer layer. Many women purchase a different breast form simply for convenience.
I had a lumpectomy, and I feel that one breast looks noticeably smaller. What can I do?
With a lumpectomy, most ladies feel that fullness or volume may be lacking, making the bust appear smaller or uneven in shape. A hollow silicone ‘shell’ prosthesis worn discreetly in your bra cup will replace the missing volume and conceal imperfections. This can make all the difference, and it also helps prevent your bra from migrating towards your remaining breast, as the fuller side will try to take more of the bra to its side. Sometimes a moulded style of bra helps without the need of a filler.
Why should I go to a professional fitter?
It is the quickest, most convenient way to get it right. A trained and experienced fitter will be able to select the proper prosthesis from lots of styles to suit the individual needs for each woman. At Eloise, our fitters are all professionally trained to give correct and completely impartial advice on any type of prosthesis.
Why are prostheses so expensive?
A good quality silicone prosthesis is carefully made and hand-finished so it resembles the natural breast as closely as possible. Cheap versions may be available but they don’t last very long or give the correct fit and feel. If you take care and look after your prosthesis properly, it should last at least two years, during which time you can enjoy a natural looking outline and no-one will know you’ve had surgery.
How do I look after my prosthesis?
Silicone prostheses are very easy to look after. Simply wash with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a towel. Avoid contact with body lotions, perfumes or abrasive cleaning agents. Contact prostheses have a care pack enclosed with the product as they require special cleaning instructions. Ensure you do not pierce or puncture the outer skin as it not repairable. Keep the breast form in the moulded plastic cradle that it came in to maintain its shape when not being worn.
Do I need to wear a ‘special’ bra with my prosthesis?
Not necessarily, but your prosthesis won’t look or feel right in an ill-fitting or unsupportive bra. The majority of bras we stock are called post-mastectomy or prosthesis bras. This simply means they are ready-pocketed or have cup linings to accommodate a prosthesis or partial breast form. Cup lined bras are suitable for anyone to wear as the lining sits inside the bra comfortably and moulds around the bust.
Click here to browse the wide range of prostheses in our online shop
