Breast Forms: What You Need to Know
Breast forms are prosthetic breasts and are designed for people who want to achieve the desired shape and contour of the breast without undergoing breast surgery. Many people are not familiar with what breast forms are or how they can be a viable option for those not considering surgery. Some patients choose not to have breast surgery for a variety of reasons and will investigate alternative options, that is where breast forms come in.
What are Breast Forms?
Breast forms are breast-shaped prosthetics that are usually placed against the skin or inside the bra. They offer an excellent solution and a natural look for various situations like a full or partial mastectomy, breast tissue excision or providing a feminine body shape to transgender women. It is a life-like alternative to surgery with no side effects or recovery time and they are less expensive than breast surgery. Moreover, they are not permanent and don’t require implant insertion, this is why some patients prefer them over breast surgery.?
Types of Breast Forms
Breast forms are available in various types, shapes and materials to be a precise and perfect fit for each patient. They are customizable to the patient’s needs and body shape. Every patient’s body is different and the ‘one size fits all’ policy simply does not work with breast forms. Basic knowledge of types of breast forms, shapes, sizes, safety and their practical use is important for choosing the right kind of breast form. The correct breast form should be comfortable and conform to your individual body shape. Here we have compiled what types of breast forms are available so you can consider all of your options.?
Silicone breast forms are made up of medical-grade silicone. They are designed to mimic the natural feel and contour of a breast. They are similar to silicone breast implants except for the fact that they are placed outside the body. They have a silicone shell filled with saline to provide necessary durability to the breast form along with it’s shape and contour.?
Foam breast forms are exactly like they sound. They are light weight breast forms for patients who want to consider something light but effective. They can be worn directly to the skin with the help of an adhesive or they can be worn inside a breast form bra. They are light, easy to maintain, clean and you won’t feel like there is extra weight around your breast.?
As every breast is different, many patients feel comfortable with custom breast forms that are specifically designed for their needs instead of an off the shelf product. There are various options available for custom breast forms and if you are looking for something that will fit your body shape and your body defect with ease, you may want to consider them. Patients can choose silicone or foam forms depending on their needs.?
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Partial forms are suitable for patients who had lumpectomy or breast tissue removal. These surgeries can leave the affected breast smaller and make breasts look asymmetrical. Partial forms can help restore symmetry. They can be used to make up for the missing tissue and can fit right inside a bra depending on the shape, size, type and location you need them in.
As the name indicated, they are knitted breast forms. These handmade breast forms are ideal for patients who want something lightweight and comfortable for their breasts. There are websites available for online orders and even templates for DIY knitted knockers. They can fit inside a normal bra to give you the natural look and contour of a breast.
How to Choose Breast Forms?
Choosing a breast form is much like choosing a bra. You have to choose the material, size and shape of the form. Choose the material which feels most comfortable to you as it will be worn close to your skin and the wrong material can cause discomfort or dermatological symptoms.?
For choosing the perfect size, it is important to stay as close to your original cup size as possible. If you are not sure about your cup size, you can start with smaller cup sizes and work your way up from there until you find a size that speaks to you. It is important to have the same breast form size as your breasts before surgery. This will help your body to acclimatize to the feeling of having forms faster.?
There are various shapes of breast forms available in the market. Oval, conical, teardrop and triangle are a few shapes that are commonly available and you can choose one that is most suited to your needs.?
Conclusions
Breast prosthetics are a good option for patients who don't want reconstruction surgery. They help in restoring the body shape and natural form. It is important to consult with your surgeon if you are thinking of getting breast forms after breast surgery. Once your surgeon clears you for them, you can choose one to your liking.?