Q. How do I go about getting one that fits right?
A. This is the perfect opportunity for a shopping trip with a good girlfriend. Bring something to wear that’s fairly form-fitting, like a clingy shirt; i.e., it should show your body as clearly as possible. If you like the look of your form under that kind of scrutiny, you’ll like it in anything you wear. Depending on where you’re shopping, there may be a trained fitter there to help you out. If not, just browse the offerings, and pick a few that seem as though they’d mimic your other breast–including the nipple. (Yes, forms now come with a nipple!) Slip them into your bra one by one (mastectomy bra, if you have one), put on your shirt, and take a look. Have your girlfriend give you a fair assessment, too, from all sides. Don’t rush; if you’ve chosen to go the breast-form route, take the time to select one that really fits well. And here’s a hint: just like with shoe shopping, not only should the form look good, it should feel comfortable. A form that’s too heavy can actually affect your shoulder adversely, especially if you’re prone to lymphedema.
If you can’t find anything you like, it’s possible to have a form custom-made; shops that offer forms may offer this service, as well. Be advised they’re quite expensive, though, and your insurance may not cover a custom form.
One distinct advantage forms have over reconstruction or implants is that they’re easily swapped out; if you get one you end up not liking, it’s simple to try another. So spend the time to make a wise choice, but don’t do TOO much mental hand-wringing as you go through the process; it’s not irreversible.
Finally, if you have a very favorite style and brand of bra, don’t think you have to give it up: depending on design, you can get a form pocket sewn into it. Check out this option at the store where you buy your form.
Q. So how much is all of this going to cost?
A. Forms go from inexpensive ($10) to WOW (many hundreds of dollars). If you have health insurance, check with your insurance company as to exactly what they’ll cover; some will only cover forms from a particular manufacturer, or a specific source. At any rate, get your doctor to write you a prescription for one; it helps push through your request with the insurance company, and it’s a necessity if you have Medicare coverage (which will pay for a new form every year or two, so long as you get a prescription).
Back to Start: Reconstruction FAQs: Opting for a Prosthesis After Surgery
