A breast form is a prosthesis worn either inside a bra or attached to the body to simulate the weight, feel, movement, and shape of the natural female breast. Depending on the material or shape used, these qualities can be achieved to different degrees. Most modern breast forms are designed by computers and can be attached to the chest. Breast forms can be worn comfortably with strapless dresses, lingerie while sleeping or during strenuous activity.
The most common material used to make breast forms is silicone gel inside a slick plastic shell. Other materials are also used such as rubber/latex, foam, cotton batting, etc. Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each material type.
Silicone is the most common material used to make breast forms as it gives the form a comparable weight, movement, and feel of a natural breast. Silicone can be colored in a variety of shades to match skin tone. Silicone produces the most anatomically accurate shape including realistic nipples and areolas. The material of the form warms to your body temperature and feels very comfortable. Silicone can also be whipped with air to produce much lighter Breast Forms which are very comfortable and yet look natural.
Many silicone forms come in only 1-3 color shades. The skin shade of most people differs from the season and the amount of sun their skin receives. A silicone form can not adapt to these changes. You may not be able to find the right match for an existing breast. Silicone nipples will not react to temperature changes (become erect) as a real nipple will. This may create some visible differences between a silicone form and an existing breast in certain circumstances.
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Latex is a cheaper alternative to silicone, while still retaining some of the qualities of silicone. While still having some of the qualities of silicone to a certain degree, rubber/latex Breast Forms can not match the weight, feel or movement of silicone forms. Some people are allergic to rubber or latex and this can create a big issue.
A Soft Cleanser is recommended for daily use. Skin oils can break down the outer skin of a breast form and shorten the useful life. It is a good idea to clean the breast forms every night and store it properly.
Most silicone forms have a life of 2 years. Silicone forms may split their outer envelope seams, wrinkle or develop internal bubbles, while fiber-filled or foam forms may change their shape, decay, crease or become compressed over the period of time. The life of the breast form depends on the manufacturing material used, how much they are used and how well they are handled.
A full-coverage bra will be better suited to a breast form. Some bras also contain a pocket where the form can be placed in to reduce movement of the form while worn. The pocket also gives you a layer of fabric between the form and your body reducing the risk of allergy. Push-up bras will generally not work with breast forms unless the form is attached to the chest.
If you have had radiation therapy on your chest wall, contact breast forms may not be the right option for you. It is highly advised to consult your physician before wearing breast forms.
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