Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. The Breast Prosthesis Fitting Service. Issued by the Breast Team

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1 Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust The Breast Prosthesis Fitting Service Issued by the Breast Team

2 This leaflet explains about the breast prosthesis fitting service. What is the Breast Prosthesis Fitting Service? This service provides personal and professional advice on breast prosthesis (breast forms), swimwear and underwear to women who have undergone breast surgery. What is a breast prosthesis? A breast prosthesis is made of soft, breast shaped silicone, which produces the natural curves of a breast shape. It is available in many shapes, sizes and skin shades to suit the individual woman. It is held inside your bra to provide you with a breast shape. Who carries out the fittings? The fittings are carried out by the breast care nurse specialist or a specialist fitter who has training in this area. They will discuss your personal requirements and show you the range of prosthesis available. They will help you choose the appropriate style and size for you. How do I care for the prosthesis? It is important that you look after your prosthesis to prevent damage and deterioration of the silicone. Wash your prosthesis every day using soap and warm water and dry well. 1

3 When you are not wearing the prosthesis, store it in the box provided as this helps to maintain the shape. Beware of sharp items such as pins and pets claws, as they can puncture the prosthesis. If the prosthesis should split place tape over the area until you can seek advice. The silicone inside is like a sticky jelly and is not harmful to you or your clothes. Do I need to buy special bras? You do not need to buy special mastectomy bras. Many local department stores and specialist shops sell bras that are suitable. The bra does need to be full cupped and supportive to hold the prosthesis in place. The majority of the stores offer a free measuring and fitting service. You can wear an under-wired bra but it depends on the style of the prosthesis worn ask for more advice. Some women prefer to have pockets at the back of the cup in their bra. They feel that pockets prevent the prosthesis moving and they feel more confident. This is a free service and takes approximately working days. Please ensure you leave your name, telephone number and size of pocket needed with your bra. If you would like more information please contact your breast care nurse or specialist fitter. 2

4 Do I need special swimwear? You do not need to buy specialised swimwear but most women find that they prefer specially designed swimwear, as they feel more confident and comfortable. We can offer advice on suitable swimwear and also put you in touch with local shops and mail order companies who design swimwear especially for women who have had breast surgery. You can use your prosthesis for swimming but rinse well afterwards. Some women find their prosthesis heavy when swimming. A specially designed swim prosthesis or a lightweight leisure form can be purchased ask for more advice. Are there alternatives to a silicone prosthesis? If you prefer not to wear a silicone prosthesis, light weight alternatives are available ask your fitter for more advice. Can I sunbathe whilst wearing the prosthesis? Yes you can sunbathe whilst wearing the prosthesis. Direct sunlight should not affect the silicone or damage the prosthesis in any way. You can also wear the prosthesis whilst you are in a sauna or Jacuzzi, make sure you rinse it well afterwards as this helps to keep the prosthesis in good shape. 3

5 How long does the prosthesis last? Most women find that their prosthesis lasts between 2-5 years depending on how it is looked after. You may need a new prosthesis if your: Body weight/shape changes especially if you lose weight or put weight on. The silicone deteriorates meaning the prosthesis is not giving you the correct shape. Who do I contact to make an appointment for a new prosthesis? Please contact your Breast Care Nurse at your local hospital when you require a new prosthesis. They will then arrange an appointment for you to come to the clinic. 4

6 Support Contact Numbers Breast Care Nurse North Tyneside General Hospital (0191) Breast Care Nurse Wansbeck General Hospital (01670) Breast Care Nurse Hexham General Hospital (01434) Breast Practitioners Wansbeck General Hospital (01670) or Orthotics Officer North Tyneside General Hospital (0191) Breast Cancer Care Helpline or website: Macmillan Cancer Relief Helpline or website: Breast Care Campaign 5

7 Notes 6

8 PIN 169/V3 Review date: January 2017