Options If You Don’t Want or Cannot Have Reconstruction
If you decide reconstruction isn’t for you — either right now or ever — there are still ways to feel comfortable and confident in your body.
Whether you go flat, wear a prosthesis, or have reconstruction, outside opinions…even well-meaning ones….have no place in such an intimate and personal decision. The most important thing is that the choice feels right for you.
Going Flat
This means choosing not to rebuild the shape of the breast after mastectomy. Many people feel at peace with this option and find it simplifies recovery. Going flat rarely causes physical problems if both breasts are removed. However, if only one breast is removed — especially if your natural breasts are large — the difference in weight and balance may lead to posture issues or back discomfort.
Some people who have breast surgery decide not to have reconstructive surgery. Instead, they may opt to go flat (with or without using breast prostheses). If you decide to go flat, during your initial surgery your surgeon will perform a procedure called an aesthetic flat closure. This involves removing remaining skin, fat, or tissue from the breast area and reshaping the chest to create a flat, clean contour.
For some individuals, there may be limitations to going flat. Those with an elevated body mass index (BMI) may need multiple procedures to have a flat contour. For others, a flat contour may not be feasible based on an individual’s physical build, inclusive of height, weight, muscle mass, fat distribution, and overall body proportions. Talk to your doctor if going flat is of interest to you to learn what’s possible.
Breast Prostheses
A breast prosthesis (sometimes called a breast form) is a custom-shaped device that can help restore your natural silhouette after breast surgery, whether you’ve had a full mastectomy or a lumpectomy.
Designed to mimic the shape, weight, and feel of your breast, a prosthesis fits discreetly inside your bra or attaches directly to your body with specialized adhesive. Whether you choose silicone, foam, or fiberfill, a breast form can help you feel more comfortable in your clothes, support your posture, and help your body stay balanced.
Custom Breast Prostheses: A Personalized Fit
If you’re looking for a more tailored option, custom prostheses are designed to match your unique body. They’re made to fit your chest wall precisely, align with your weight, and match your skin tone, breast shape, and areola color — all to help you feel more like you again
Benefits of a Custom Prosthesis:
- Made to your exact measurements and skin tone
- Distributes weight evenly and comfortably
- Reduces friction or pressure on sensitive areas
- Offers the most natural look and feel possible
Why a Breast Prosthesis Might Be Right for You
Breast prostheses offer more than just a change in appearance they can support your physical comfort and overall wellbeing. Here’s how a prosthesis can help:
Promotes healthy posture by restoring your body’s natural balance
Helps reduce discomfort in your back, shoulders, and neck
Offers a smoother, more symmetrical look under clothing
Shields healing scars or sensitive areas
Prevents your bra from shifting or riding up
How to Get a Prosthesis and What’s Covered
To get started, ask your doctor for a prescription that includes: your diagnosis, whether you need a left, right, or bilateral prosthesis, and a note for prosthetic bras if needed
Good news: Some medical coverages consider prostheses and specialized bras medically necessary, so they’re often covered. Most private insurance plans also offer coverage, but it’s always a good idea to check with your provider for specific details.
Not sure when to start reconstruction? This simple visual guide from Living Beyond Breast Cancer can help you think through your options.
