Visit a professional mastectomy bra fitter to be measured for a mastectomy bra and accompanying prosthesis. Examine the different materials when buying a prosthesis as these vary in weight, consistency and price. The size and shape of your prosthesis must suit your body, and you can decide whether to include a nipple. Choose a mastectomy bra that is comfortable to wear and looks good — bras are available in different colors and styles that are attractive and fashionable.
Mastectomy bras can be bought ready-made or you can have one made especially for you. Look for a professional mastectomy prosthesis fitter who can give you expert advice and assistance. Expect to be measured and shown a range of prosthesis and bras to choose from. A mastectomy bra should be made of soft material and be comfortable to wear, it should not require regular adjustment, be too tight or too loose.
The aim is to be able to forget you are wearing a mastectomy bra at all. Feel the bra material to ensure that it is soft and of good quality. Check inside the bra for any seams or stitches that are rough or loose that might cause discomfort.
Your mastectomy bra should contain a prosthetic for one or both breasts, depending on your requirements. Choose prosthetic breasts that are carefully designed to look and feel natural. They should weigh a similar amount to real breasts and be of a realistic consistency.
Silicone is often used to create prosthesis because of its versatility in creating breasts that are large or small, firm or soft. Prosthetic breasts are also made from materials such as foam, gel and fiber-fill, each available at different prices, with some appearing more realistic than others. Feel the prosthesis to ensure it is of good quality and is realistic.
You can usually choose whether to have a nipple present on the prosthesis, so think about its size and what will look natural. Choose a prosthesis that looks similar to your existing breast if you have had a single mastectomy, or choose any size you wish if you have had a double mastectomy. A mastectomy bra can be just as attractive and fashionable as a regular bra. Available in a range of different colors, choose from underwire, lacy, halter neck and strapless styles. The best mastectomy bra looks good and makes you feel good, with prostheses that compliment your appearance.