Most breast prostheses are made from soft silicone gel encased in a thin film. They’re moulded to resemble the natural shape of a woman’s breast, or part of a breast. The outer surface feels soft and smooth, and may include a nipple outline.
Many women who have had surgery for breast cancer and have not had reconstruction wear a breast prosthesis. However, it may also be useful for women whose breasts are naturally different from each other in size or shape, or who have had breast reconstruction that has not given an even match.
For some women, wearing a prosthesis may be a temporary choice prior to reconstruction. Other women may choose not (or be unable) to have breast reconstruction and find wearing a prosthesis an effective and suitable long-term choice. Some women who do not to have a reconstruction choose not to wear a prosthesis.
