A breast prosthesis provides a natural shape and support after a mastectomy or lumpectomy, helping you feel comfortable and confident. With various types, materials, and insurance options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

This guide covers everything you need to know—from types and fittings to insurance coverage and care tips—to help you go through this new beginning.

What is a Breast Prosthesis

A breast prosthesis or breast form is a custom-made option that restores the shape of a missing breast. It helps restore balance and confidence after a mastectomy (surgery to remove entire breast tissue) or lumpectomy (breast cancer surgery).

These forms are designed to match the shape, size, and weight of a natural breast. They are usually made from soft materials like foam, silicone, or fiberfill, giving them a natural feel. Most are worn inside a bra, but some attach directly to the body with adhesive.

Whether it's a temporary or permanent prosthesis, it offers a natural look and feel that gives comfort to your daily life.

Just keep in mind that breast prosthesis and airport security are separate concerns. While airport scanners can detect them, you are not required to remove your prosthesis during screening.

Types of Breast Prostheses

Breast prostheses come in different styles to suit your needs after surgery.

• External Silicone Breast Prosthesis – This type of prosthesis is made from silicone and is designed to mimic the feel of your natural breast tissue. Since it has weight, it can help improve posture, prevent shoulder strain, and maintain balance.
• Non-Silicone Breast Prosthesis – It is a lightweight option made from foam or fiberfill. It’s often recommended for those recovering from surgery since it's softer and more comfortable. This type is also ideal for swimming or exercise, as it can be worn in chlorinated or salt water.
• Shell or Shaped Prosthesis (Partial) – It is used when only part of the breast is removed. Made from the same silicone material as most full prostheses, it fills missing areas for a balanced shape. It can be worn with a regular or post-mastectomy bra and shaped to fill the breast outline.
• Attachable Prosthesis – This type of prosthesis is self-adhesive and sticks directly to the chest wall. It can also be worn with strapless tops and dresses if the clothing provides enough support. However, most women are advised to wait at least 6 to 12 months after surgery or radiation therapy before using this type, as the skin may be damaged.
• Post-Surgical Soft Form or Temporary Prosthesis – A lightweight and removable option worn immediately after surgery. It provides gentle support during the healing process and can be worn inside a camisole, a soft and stretchy garment that’s easy to put on, even if arm movement is limited.

The right type depends on your comfort, lifestyle, and the support needed. A professional fitting can ensure a comfortable and natural feel.

Shapes of Breast Prostheses

Breast prostheses come in different shapes to your needs and surgical outcomes. Choosing the right shape can help create a natural look and improve comfort.

• Symmetrical – Typically triangular or oval shape worn on the left or right side.
• Teardrop – Designed for women with fuller lower and outer breast areas but less volume above the nipple. This shape also works on the left or right side.
• Asymmetrical – Ideal if you had more tissue removed as it includes extensions to fit on the upper chest or under the arm. But it can still work even if you have minimal tissue loss and can be used on the left or right side.
• Made-to-Measure – Uses 3D scanning technology to create a custom prosthesis that fits your chest area and matches your skin tone. This option helps prevent movement and offers a personalized fit.
• Air-Inflated Prosthesis – This prosthesis comes with a pump to adjust its size as needed. Availability may vary by hospital.

Whether you need a standard fit or a custom option, there are choices to suit your body shape and lifestyle.

Insurance and Financial Considerations

Insurance coverage for prosthetic devices and mastectomy bras varies by provider. Some plans, including Medicare, cover one breast prosthesis per year.

Many insurance companies will also pay for two to four mastectomy bras per year, but a prescription from your physician is required.

The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 ensures that health insurance companies covering mastectomy must also cover breast reconstruction and breast prostheses.

This federal law protects women’s rights to post-mastectomy care, including the costs of breast forms when needed.

Medicare

Medicare provides coverage for breast prostheses, but the type of coverage depends on where the surgery takes place.

• Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers surgically implanted breast prostheses if the mastectomy is performed in a hospital as an inpatient procedure.
• Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers surgically implanted breast prostheses if the mastectomy is done in an outpatient setting. It also covers external breast prostheses, including post-surgical bras, after a mastectomy.

For external breast prostheses and doctor's services, Medicare Part B requires you to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies.

The Medicare-approved amount is the set payment that Original Medicare determines for covered services and items. If your provider accepts assignment, Medicare covers its portion and you are responsible for your share of the cost.

The deductible is the amount you must pay for healthcare services or prescriptions before Medicare, your Medicare Advantage Plan, or other insurance starts covering costs.

The final cost may depend on several factors, such as additional insurance coverage, doctor’s fees, and whether your provider accepts Medicare’s approved rates.

Disclaimer: This article should at no point in time be referred to as 100% correct, as payment plans, Medicare coverage, and such changes over time. At no point in time can the writer be held responsible for the information given in this article. This article is solely created to help inform and guide the reader.

How to Get Coverage

Medicare and other insurance providers require proper documentation to cover a breast prosthesis. Following the right steps can help ensure you receive the coverage you need.

1. Schedule a consultation with your healthcare provider to discuss your need for a breast prosthesis.
2. Your provider will assess your needs and determine the appropriate prosthesis for you.
3. Obtain a prescription from your doctor, along with the necessary medical documentation to support your request.

If you have questions about costs or coverage, consult your doctor or healthcare provider for specific details.

How to Choose the Right Breast Prosthesis

Finding the right artificial breast is a personal choice that depends on your comfort, lifestyle, and the type of surgery you’ve had.

Understanding your options can help you feel more confident and at ease.

Professional Fitting

A certified fitter can help you find the right size, shape, and type for your body. Many mastectomy boutiques and specialty shops offer a wide range of prostheses and post-mastectomy garments, with trained professionals to assist in the fitting process.

Some of these shops are even owned by women who have experienced breast cancer themselves. For your first fitting, it’s helpful to wear a well-fitted garment, like a knit top, to see how the prosthesis looks and feels.

Lifestyle Considerations

Choose a prosthesis that fits your daily routine and clothing style. Some women prefer to have a lightweight non-silicone form for casual wear and a silicone prosthesis for a more natural feel.

Trying different options can help you find what works best for various occasions. A certified fitter can guide you through the selection process to ensure the best fit for your needs.

Function

Certain prostheses work better for specific activities, like foam or polyfill options are great options for swimming. If you only swim occasionally, you can make temporary swim prostheses by cutting a sponge to fit.

Skin Tone

Choosing a breast prosthesis that closely resembles your skin can help you feel more comfortable and confident. However, it may be challenging to find an exact match.

Some companies offer custom prostheses or can add color to existing designs, though these may take longer to produce and may not be available in all hospitals.

If needed, you can also use or make a prosthesis cover in a shade that better matches your skin. Talking to a breast care nurse or fitter can help you find the best option.

Amount of Breast Removed

The type of breast prosthesis you need depends on how much breast tissue was removed.

Partial or shaped prosthesis works best for lumpectomy or partial mastectomy, as they fill in missing areas to create a more even appearance.

You may also use a shell prosthesis to balance out differences in breast size. This option fits over the smaller breast to match the larger one.

This type of prosthesis can also be helpful after breast reconstruction if the results are not symmetrical. It can also be a temporary solution if you're waiting for a breast reduction to achieve balance.

For full mastectomies, symmetrical prostheses may work best. They are often designed in an oval or triangular shape, allowing them to be worn on either the left or right side.

Care and Maintenance Tips for Your Breast Prostheses

Proper care helps extend the life of your breast prosthesis and keeps it comfortable to wear.

Cleaning Your Breast Prostheses

Hand wash with mild soap and water regularly to keep it fresh and hygienic. Some silicone breast forms come with cleaning kits that include non-abrasive wipes and mild soaps that are safe to use.

Silicone material should not be exposed to water so avoid wearing them in a hot tub or while swimming as it can break down, making it thinner and stickier over time.

If your prosthesis has an adhesive backing, follow specific cleaning instructions to help maintain its stickiness.

A certified mastectomy fitter can also recommend safe store-bought soaps or cleaners.

Mastectomy Bra Care

Gently wash mastectomy bras with mild soap and lay them flat to dry to help preserve their shape and durability.

Replacing Your Breast Prosthesis

Most prostheses last a few years before needing to be replaced. When it’s time for a new one, you can reorder a similar set from where you originally purchased it.

If you aren’t satisfied with the original provider, you can explore other retailers for different options.

Many manufacturers offer warranties, so if your prosthesis breaks down within the warranty period, you may be eligible for a replacement at no cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of a breast prosthesis?

A high-quality breast prosthesis typically ranges from $100 to $500. If you have insurance, you may be eligible for partial or full reimbursement. But it’s best to check with your provider before making a purchase.

What is the difference between breast prosthesis and breast form?

There is no significant difference between a breast prosthesis and a breast form. They are often used interchangeably, though “breast prosthesis” is the more medical term, while “breast form” is a more general or casual way to describe it.