I am trying to make a decision on which type of prosthesis I should opt for after my mastectomy. Have been shown two types by breast cancer nurse, one which fits in a pocket in bra and one which sticks directly to the skin. I would appreciate hearing opinions on both from other members of forum.
It's a very individual choice but my contribution would be - I have over-sensitive skin and after itching with dressings the sticky prosthesis was a no for me. I am very happy with my in-pocket prosthesis but it took a while to get right. I'd been expecting to see a specialist fitter (I think some hospitals do this) but it was just one of the nurses and it was later when I saw someone more experienced that I got the right one for me. The first attempt ( inside an official post-surgery bra ordered online due to pandemic) kept moving across my chest - funny on a good day, produced tears on a bad one! When M & S started fittings again two lovely ladies got me sorted straightaway - a size smaller bra and cup with a wide band to stop the creeping. I then saw a nurse who was very experienced in fitting prostheses. It was actually an ordinary bra so needed a pocket in. I'm a sewer so could easily put my own in, but our hospital offers a free pocket service. I then felt very confident even in summer clothes. Your choice will be influenced by your lifestyle - I've always been skinny and never gone for low necks so everything stays well hidden for me. All the people I dealt with were totally committed to getting things right for me and persisting till they'd achieved that. My best wishes for your mastectomy journey and a comfy prosthesis.
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