Breast prostheses and reconstruction

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Breast prostheses

Questions to ask the breast care nurse or fitter

• Do I need to wear a breast prosthesis?
• What kind of prosthesis would work best for me? Is there something suitable after breast-conserving surgery?
• When can I start wearing a breast prosthesis?
• How will wearing a prosthesis affect me if I have lymphoedema or oedema?
• What can I do if I find the breast prosthesis uncomfortable?
• Do I need to buy pocketed bras or can I wear regular ones?

Questions to ask the fitter about the fitting

• How long will the fitting take?
• Can I bring a support person to the fitting?
• If I don’t want to remove my bra, is it possible to be measured for a prosthesis and/or pocketed bra without doing so?
• Do you have a wide range of styles and colours? Can you order other styles or colours if the ones in stock aren’t suitable?
• What if I find the prosthesis too heavy or too hot?
• Can I also get a swim breast prosthesis? Will I need a special swimming costume?
• What is the price range of the prostheses and bras you sell?
• Do I need to buy a pocketed bra or can I use a regular one?
• How do I care for the prosthesis?
• Can I return the prosthesis if it’s not suitable?
• What happens if I puncture my prosthesis?
• What is the warranty period for the prosthesis?
• How long will my prosthesis last?
• What should I do if my breast size changes before I’m due for replacement?

Questions to ask yourself about the fit

• Is the bra comfortable when I take a deep breath?
• When I lean forward, is the bra sitting flat against my chest?
• Does the prosthesis feel secure in the bra?
• Does the prosthesis match my skin tone?
• Do I feel balanced? Does the surface of the bra look smooth?
• Can I see edges of the prosthesis sticking out of the bra?
• Do I like how I look with the prosthesis in place?

Breast reconstruction

Questions to ask your breast or reconstructive (plastic) surgeon

• Do you think I can have a reconstruction?
• When would you advise me to have the reconstruction?
• What types of reconstructions are suitable for me?
• If I need radiation therapy, will this affect the reconstruction or the type of reconstruction I can have?
• Will you do my reconstruction?
• What are the risks and possible side effects of this type of reconstruction?
• Do you specialise in this type of surgery?
• How long will I have to wait to have the reconstruction?
• Where can I have this surgery?
• How long will I need to stay in hospital? How long will my recovery take?
• How much will it cost? Are there any out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Medicare or my private health cover?
• How will the reconstructed breast look and feel?
• Can you show me photos of previous reconstructions you’ve done?
• Can I talk to others who have had a similar operation?
• Will the reconstruction hide any new problems? Do I still need regular mammograms?
• How can I get a second opinion?
• Who should I contact if I have questions or a problem after surgery?
• If there are complications, is it likely I’ll need more surgery?