Cancer Australia

An external breast prosthesis is an artificial breast worn inside the bra to give shape to clothes. A prosthesis can be used after a mastectomy and sometimes after breast conserving surgery.An external breast prosthesis is designed to match the colour, size and shape of the other breast. It’s specially weighted so that it feels and moves like the other breast. Many women find that wearing a prosthesis helps them feel better about how they look after surgery. A prosthesis can also help improve balance and posture.

Types of breast prosthesis

There are different types of breast prosthesis:

• a temporary prosthesis is a soft, light prosthesis given to a woman at the hospital to wear for the first 6 weeks or so after surgery
• a permanent prosthesis is properly weighted and fitted to match the other breast
• a lightweight breast form is specially designed for swimming and can be worn inside a swimming costume
• a partial prosthesis (also called a shaper, bra booster or shell prosthesis) may be suitable for some women after breast conserving surgery.

Some women wear a bra with a pocket in it to hold their prosthesis in place. Special mastectomy bras are available or you can sew a pocket into your own bras. Other women use a self-adhesive prosthesis that sticks to the chest using special glue.

Choosing a breast prosthesis

Choosing the right prosthesis will depend on a number of things, including the type of surgery a woman has, her body shape, the cost and individual preference. It’s important for women to have their permanent prosthesis fitted by a specialist prosthesis fitter.

Find out more about:

• National External Breast Prostheses Reimbursement Program
• Questions to ask about breast prostheses
• Where to find more information about breast prostheses