Post Mastectomy
Questions & Answers
Q: What is a breast form?
A: breast form is an external prosthesis that can be worn inside the pocket of a bra. Breast forms are designed to resemble natural breast tissue and are therefore made of silicone.
Q: I need to restore symmetry after a lumpectomy, reconstruction or breast conserving surgery. what will work best for me?
A: Shapers, also known as partials, are designed to restore symmetry, helping you achieve a balanced look and feel. ABC provides a variety of shapers depending upon your need.
Q: Why do I need to wear a breast form?
A: Wearing a breast form will help you to restore the weight that's missing from your chest wall. Even though wearing a breast form can enhance your overall appearance, not wearing one can cause physical alterations as well. A weighted breast form will restore your body's natural balance. It will prevent spinal curvature, shoulder drop, and lower back and neck pain.
Q: What happens if I puncture my breast form?
A: Your breast form is not covered under warranty if punctured. It's extremely important that you take all necessary precautions to preserve your breast form. This means storing your breast form in the travel case when not in use and staying away from sharp objects.
Q: Can I swim in my breast form?
A: It is recommended that you opt for a swim form which was designed specifically for swimming. Carol's offers swim forms from which you can choose.
Q: How long will my breast form last?
A: Breast forms have a life expectancy of 2 years.
Q: Can I get a lighter breast form?
A: Our Lightweight breast forms and Ultra Light breast forms are lighter when compared to standard silicone. Ultra Light is an exclusive creation from ABC. Having a weighted breast form is important, but we know that too much weight can become cumbersome. Depending on your preference, ABC provides 3 different types of silicone: standard, lightweight and ultra light. Lightweight and ultra light are respectively 30% and 45% lighter than standard silicone.
Q: Will people be able to tell the difference between my natural breast and my breast form?
A: No, breast form technology has made great strides. With a proper fitting, you will find the right breast form and bra to make you look balanced and feel confident. As an added measure, it's helpful to know that our silicone breast forms are completely "huggable". So don't worry about the feel of your breast forms. No one will be able to tell. Your breast form will pass the "hug test" with flying colors!
Q: Why should I be seen by a certified fitter?
A: Every woman is different – so is every bra and every best form. It's best to have a certified fitter help you look at what works best for your size, frame and build.
Q: Can I wear a breast form without wearing a pocketed post-mastectomy bra?
A: Yes, you can, but you may find it easier to wear a pocketed bra that was designed to hold the weight of a breast form. Other bras may not be able to sustain the weight of the breast form. A post-mastectomy bra gives you the added security that you need.
Q: When should I start wearing a breast form?
A: Immediately following your surgery, you should be seen by a fitter. It is recommended that you get fitted with a non-silicone form. This should be worn for at least 6 weeks after your surgery. When your doctor determines that you're ready for a weighted prosthesis, then he/she will write you a prescription for a silicone breast form. A silicone breast form has a guaranteed life of 2 years.
Q: Is silicone safe to use?
Q: How do I pay for supplies?
A: Medicare and other private insurance companies will pay for mastectomy supplies. IF you have had breast cancer, insurance companies are required to pay for this product as long as deductible has been met.
A: Silicone is deemed a safe material to use in the production of an external breast prosthesis.