Concerned about airport security when flying with a breast prosthesis? This guide answers your top questions, ensuring your security screening is straightforward and respectful. From what to expect at body scanners to arranging a private screening, we’ll navigate breast prosthesis and airport security together, so you can travel with peace of mind.

Navigating Airport Security with a Breast Prosthesis

Although it may seem scary to navigate airport security with a breast prosthesis, it doesn’t have to be. A smooth journey can be achieved with proper preparation and effective communication with airport security staff. Knowing your rights, understanding security procedures, and planning ahead can make your air travel experience stress-free.

Communicating with Airport Security Staff

Communication is important when dealing with airport security staff. A proactive approach, by informing the TSA agent about your breast prosthesis, helps facilitate the screening process and ensures your comfort. You are in no way required to remove your breast prosthesis during the process. Knowing how to communicate your needs effectively can make all the difference during your travel journey.

Airport security staff are trained to handle situations with sensitivity and professionalism as part of the airport security body. They are equipped to address passengers with prostheses, including those who have undergone breast surgery due to metastatic breast cancer, in a considerate manner. Airport security body scanners are designed to ensure safety while respecting your privacy. Rest assured that you will be treated with respect and understanding, making your journey less stressful and more comfortable.

Understanding Airport Security Procedures

A smooth travel experience is ensured by comprehending airport security procedures. Typical protocols involve removing laptops from bags, restricting liquids to 3 ounces or less in a clear, one-quart bag, and removing items from pockets. For breast prosthesis users, you are not required to remove your prosthesis before undergoing a body scan. It’s always a good idea to consult your breast clinic for additional guidance on traveling with a breast prosthesis.

Keep in mind, travelers with medical conditions, including those using a permanent prosthesis, have the right to assistance and accommodations at airport security. The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) guarantees that air travelers with disabilities, including those with medical conditions, are not subjected to discrimination by airlines. Knowing your rights can empower you to navigate the airport security process with ease and dignity.

Opting for a Private Screening Area

For some individuals, a private screening might be a more comfortable option. This can be directly requested from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent. They are obligated to accommodate your request and will arrange for a separate room or area for the screening to ensure privacy.

Even in a private screening setting, you should be aware that certain security procedures must still be followed. It’s also vital to consider potential language barriers and cultural differences at international airports. TSA officers are equipped to handle screenings with respect and sensitivity, acknowledging cultural and religious considerations.

Handling Your Silicone Breast Forms During Air Travel

Careful handling of your silicone breast forms is important while traveling. Silicone breast prostheses can be safely transported during air travel, either by wearing them or packing them in carry-on luggage. They are exempt from the usual restrictions on liquids, gels, and aerosols, making them an easy addition to your travel essentials.

Air Pressure and Silicone Breast Forms

One concern that may arise during air travel is the impact of changes in air pressure on your silicone breast forms. As the aircraft ascends or descends, the cabin pressure changes, causing a decrease or an increase in air pressure.

However, rest assured that such changes have no impact on the shape or feel of your silicone breast forms. Brands like Amoena offer silicone breast forms that are designed to resist changes in air pressure, ensuring that your breast forms remain intact and comfortable throughout your flight. To identify silicone breast forms of this quality, look for reputable brands and product descriptions that mention air pressure resistance.

Caring for Your Prosthesis Post-Flight

Post-flight, your prosthesis deserves some loving care. The recommended procedure for cleaning a silicone breast prosthesis following air travel involves washing it gently with warm soapy water, similar to how one would treat their own skin. This helps to remove any dirt or sweat accumulated during the travel.

To maintain the shape of your breast prosthesis after traveling, it’s recommended to hand wash it regularly with a mild, skin-friendly soap, and then rinse it with cool water. For non-silicone forms, after hand-washing with a mild soap, allow them to air dry. Proper care of your prosthesis can ensure its longevity and maintain your comfort.

Packing Your Breast Prosthesis: Carry On Bag Essentials

For a hassle-free journey, proper packing of your breast prosthesis is very impotrant. Whether you decide to wear your prosthesis or pack it in your carry-on bag, it’s important to ensure that it is well-protected and easily accessible.

We will read about ways to protect your prosthesis during transit and identify the essentials needed in your carry-on bag.

Protecting Your Prosthesis in Transit

Travel can often be a bumpy ride, and your breast prosthesis needs to be safeguarded from any potential impact. The use of protective cases or padding can provide protection and prevent potential damage to the prosthesis during transit.

When selecting materials for safeguarding your breast prosthesis, consider their ability to withstand changes in altitude and air pressure. Ensuring that your prosthesis is well-protected will not only keep it intact but also give you peace of mind during your journey.

Medication and Other Needs

When packing your carry-on bag, do not forget to include necessary medications and other personal items. If you have a physician’s prescription for your prosthesis or mastectomy bras, it’s a good idea to bring it along.

Remember, liquid medications in quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces are permitted in carry-on bags and do not need to be placed in a zip-top bag. Planning and packing thoughtfully can help you avoid unnecessary stress and discomfort during your journey.

Dressing for Comfort and Confidence

What you wear while traveling with a breast prosthesis can greatly impact your comfort and confidence. Choosing the right mastectomy bra and making necessary clothing adjustments can make your journey much more enjoyable.

Choosing the Right Mastectomy Bra

For comfort during your flight, selecting the right mastectomy bra is of utmost importance. Look for characteristics like unique softness, adjustability, and bilateral interior pockets. A good mastectomy bra provides support during air travel by securely holding the breast prosthesis.

Choosing the appropriate size of mastectomy bra is also important. The band and cup should neither be too big nor too small. Opting for a bra with a front opening can help avoid discomfort when stretching your arms behind your back.

Breathable and soft fabrics such as modal and seamless fabrics ensure optimal comfort during long flights.

Layering and Clothing Adjustments

Layering and clothing adjustments can help you maintain comfort and confidence while traveling. Comfortable materials such as cotton, jersey, modal, or bamboo are suitable for layering when using a breast prosthesis.

Clothing choices can also enhance the appearance of a breast prosthesis. Here are some tips:

• Adding a silicone nipple to the prosthesis to match the natural breast
• Utilizing scarves or jewelry for additional coverage
• Seeking the assistance of a dressmaker to ensure a proper fit

These tips can all contribute to a more natural appearance and increased confidence.

Special Considerations for Breast Prosthesis Users

When going through airport security with a breast prosthesis, you should be mindful of some special considerations. This includes how metal detectors and body scanners may interact with your prosthesis.

Metal Detectors and Your Breast Prosthesis

While silicone breast prostheses generally do not activate metal detectors, there is a potential for certain types to set off the detectors due to specific materials they contain. In the unlikely event that your breast prosthesis does trigger a metal detector, it is advisable to promptly notify the security personnel about the prosthesis.

Remember, it is not necessary to remove your breast prosthesis. In case of a manual check, you have the right to request a female security officer, ensuring that the process is conducted with utmost sensitivity.

Body scanners are designed to detect all items located between the scanner and the skin, including prostheses. While they do not pose any harm to silicone breast forms, they may cause an ‘anomaly’ on the scanner, potentially leading to additional screening.

Empowering Yourself and Others

Navigating airport security with a breast prosthesis can be an empowering one for a breast cancer survivor. Sharing your experiences, building a support network, and helping others can bring about a sense of camaraderie and understanding, making the journey less daunting and more empowering.

Building a Support Network

A support network can be beneficial in offering emotional assistance, alleviating depressive symptoms, and enhancing general well-being. Online support groups and affiliations with organizations like Knitted Knockers can provide a nurturing community where you can exchange experiences and seek assistance.

A support network not only helps you but can also be a source of guidance and support for others navigating a similar path. By connecting with others, you can share advice and encouragement, making the journey less lonely and more empowering.

Sharing Your Story

By sharing your breast prosthesis journey, you can:

• Provide emotional support
• Help address self-image concerns
• Answer questions about femininity
• Encourage informed decision-making
• Foster independence in others

Your story can make a difference.

There are several platforms, like the Rick Steves Travel Forum and Bakes for Breast Cancer, where you can share your experiences. The act of sharing not only enriches your own experience but also contributes to a larger body of knowledge that can be immensely helpful to others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go through airport security with breast implants?

Yes, you can go through airport security with breast implants by having a breast prostheses card in hand to show to TSA agents if selected for additional screening. This will help streamline the process without the need for verbal explanation.

Is a breast implant considered a prosthesis?

Yes, a breast implant is considered a prosthesis used to enhance the size of a woman's breasts. It may have some complications, like any other surgical implant.

Does silicone set off airport security?

Yes, silicone can set off airport security alarms because it may not be recognized by body scanners, especially silicone breast forms. Be prepared for additional screening if you are wearing any silicone items at the airport.

Can you fly after a mastectomy and reconstruction?

Yes, you can typically fly after a mastectomy and reconstruction, but you should wait at least 6 weeks after surgery before doing so.

How should I communicate with airport security about my breast prosthesis?

You should proactively inform the TSA agent about your breast prosthesis before the screening to facilitate the process and ensure your comfort.