Material used in prostheses

Temporary soft prostheses

Temporary soft prostheses tend to be made with foam, fibre fill or fleece. In the first couple of weeks or months after surgery you will be given a temporary prosthesis to wear. Some women continue wearing a soft prosthesis at night-time. Another option is to use the temporary soft prosthesis with a knitted cotton cover called a knitted knocker, which often includes the shape of a nipple.

To request a knitted knocker, visit Knitted Knockers Australia. You may find some temporary prostheses more comfortable than others. Talk to your breast care nurse or fitter (see My Care Kit).

Permanent breast prostheses

Permanent breast prostheses for long-term use are mostly made from medical grade silicone gel. Silicone is a non-toxic manufactured substance that is heat-resistant and rubbery. If a prosthesis tears or punctures, the silicone can’t be absorbed by the skin.

The silicone is moulded into the natural shape of a breast or part of a breast. The front surface feels soft and smooth. The back surface that rests against the body varies depending on whether the prosthesis is designed to go into a bra pocket or attach directly to your skin. It can be firm and smooth, flat or hollow; have ridges that are soft and flexible; have a thin film that clings gently to the skin; or be made of fabric. A new type of prosthesis has an inflatable back that you can adjust for comfort. See Different breast prostheses and their features for more information.

Most permanent prostheses are weighted to feel similar to your remaining breast (if only one breast has been removed), but lightweight styles are also available. Some prostheses include a nipple outline, or you can buy a nipple that attaches to the prosthesis.

Breast forms are very well designed these days. Anyone pressing up against you would not know the difference – not like the days when they were filled with bird seed or rice.

Jan