What could be better about your prosthetic?

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babygose1
babygose1 Member Posts: 3
edited April 2015 in Living Without Reconstruction After a Mastectomy

Without opting for reconstructive surgery, my adopted mom had a double mastectomy a year ago. She has several variations of prosthetics that she wears, and says they aren't comfortable. "Heavy, unwashable, they hurt her scars, don't look real, etc." I was wondering if other people who've had mastectomies experience the same things, and what would you do to make it better if you made them? I am an art student and want to surprise her with a pair that I made myself. Any advice or input would be greatly appreciated! Stay strong!

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  • wrenn
    wrenn Member Posts: 2,707
    edited April 2015

    The first pair I got were too heavy so I returned them. The second pair were much lighter so they didn't swivel with me when i turned. They stayed facing forward so I didn't wear them. They also really bothered my scars and I am almost two years out from surgery. I decided to just go flat. There might not be a solution for some people so I wouldn't spend a lot of time or money until you are sure she will use them. The really do irritate the site for some people and it is hard to adapt to. What about those tank tops with built in breast forms?

    Nice of you to think of her. I hope something works out.

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  • Erica3681
    Erica3681 Member Posts: 1,916
    edited April 2015

    Hi babygose1,

    You might like to check out the "Breast Forms" section of my non-profit website, BreastFree.org. With input from many women on this forum, I've compiled a list of both silicone and non-silicone forms that look good and are comfortable. Everyone's different, so your adopted mom may have to experiment a bit until she finds something she likes.

    I personally use lightly weighted foam forms more than silicone. Silicone feels more lifelike, but the foam ones look natural and are more comfortable for me. If your mom is using silicone forms, they should be easily washable. And foam forms generally come with removable covers that can be washed.

    Hope this helps.

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  • babygose1
    babygose1 Member Posts: 3
    edited April 2015

    Thank you wrenn! I really appreciate the feedback. I know she's very self-conscious still, and even though I think she's beautiful, I know it will mean a lot to her. Maybe if the one I make is fantastic, I'll make more! :D

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  • babygose1
    babygose1 Member Posts: 3
    edited April 2015

    Thanks Erica! I will check it out! It's been a long process.

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  • crystalphm
    crystalphm Member Posts: 1,138
    edited April 2015

    Keep working on it Babygose, lots of women are not happy with what is out there for our selection. The foam ones feel best to me, but honestly after about 5 hours, they all hurt my scars. I am 5 years from surgery now. wishing you the best!

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