How To Wear a Breast Prosthesis (Breast Form)

After a mastectomy, adjusting to changes in your body can be both an emotional and physical journey. A breast prosthesis—or breast form—will play an important role in that recovery process because it offers balance and symmetry, and a greater sense of normalcy.

Whether you're considering wearing a breast form temporarily or as a long-term option, this guide is designed to help you navigate your choices comfortably and confidently during your post-mastectomy recovery and help you learn how to wear a breast prosthesis, so you can feel more like yourself.

What Is a Breast Prosthesis?

A breast prosthesis is an artificial breast that is made to mimic the shape, weight, and feel of a natural breast. They are available in a range of sizes, shapes, and materials to match virtually every body’s proportions. For those recovering from a mastectomy, a teardrop or triangle breast form can help restore physical balance and emotional well-being—especially when they’re not ready or choosing not to undergo breast reconstruction.

When Can You Start Wearing Bra Inserts for Mastectomy Bras?

When it comes to wearing your teardrop or triangle silicone breast forms, timing is important. It’s typically recommended to wait about 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, or until your incision is fully healed and no longer tender or swollen, before wearing a full silicone breast prosthesis. However, you may be able to begin wearing a post-surgical soft form within a week or two of your operation. The differences between soft forms and silicone breast forms are as follows:

Soft Forms: Soft forms are designed to be worn on a temporary basis. As a result, they are made of lightweight fabric or foam, and this makes them ideal for the initial recovery phase. These forms are breathable, gentle on healing tissue, and can fit easily into a post-mastectomy bra.
Silicone Prosthesis: Once healing is complete, you will more than likely wish to transition to a more permanent breast form. Because silicone provides a realistic weight and feel, this type of breast prosthesis is recommended for long-term wear.

Remember, always consult with your surgeon or nurse before wearing any type of breast form after surgery.

Choosing the Right Breast Prosthesis

Choosing the right form depends on your type of surgery, body shape, and lifestyle. AnaOno has fit experts on staff who can guide you through the selection process, but here are a few key factors to consider:

Shape: Triangle, teardrop, and asymmetrical shapes are available depending on your chest contour and whether you've had one or both breasts removed.
Size: The goal is to create a balanced silhouette. If you’ve had a single mastectomy, your prosthesis should closely match your remaining breast.
Weight: A prosthesis with realistic weight can help correct posture and spinal alignment, which is especially important after surgery.

choosing the right breast form that works for you

Shop Breast Forms

For example, AnaOno’s Teardrop Silicone Breast Form features a subtle slope with more fullness along the lower half of the form. This allows it to closely resemble the natural shape of a breast. Our new Stacey Teardrop F(oo)B is ideal for those with petite body types or minimal breast tissue, as it provides a more proportional and balanced look. It’s also the perfect choice for post-mastectomy bras that feature deeper necklines due to their slender shape.

Meanwhile, AnaOno’s Triangle Silicone Breast Form is designed to provide full coverage and a natural appearance. As such, it can accommodate a wide variety of body and torso types, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for just about anyone. This shape works especially great full coverage bras due to its wider bottom. Our new Nikki Triangle breast form provides a modest and natural look without adding unnecessary projection or fullness.

How To Wear Breast Forms After Mastectomy

There are two primary ways to wear a breast prosthesis during and after your recovery:

1. Post-Mastectomy Bra with a Pocket

Post-mastectomy bras are specially designed with built-in pockets for holding a prosthesis securely and gently in place. Here’s how to use one:

1. Choose a soft-cup, front-closure bra if mobility is limited.

2. Insert the prosthesis into the bra’s pocket and adjust it for symmetry.

3. Make sure the bra feels snug but not restrictive to avoid irritation at the incision site.

Breast form paired with a front closure bra

Shop the Breast Forms

2. Lightweight Adhesive or Stick-On Forms (Later in Recovery)

Once your skin has fully healed, you may consider a silicone form that adheres directly to your chest. These offer a natural drape and can be worn with non-pocketed bras or certain clothing. It is important to note that if you choose to use these types of products, then you must be sure to follow your doctor’s medical advice on how to wear them.

Tips for Improved Comfort and Quicker Healing

Take it slow: Begin with a lightweight, soft form and gradually transition to silicone, which offers heavier or more permanent options.
Monitor your skin: Watch for signs of irritation or pressure, especially in the early weeks after surgery.
Stay cool and dry: Moisture-wicking bras made with breathable fabrics are important during recovery because they help prevent skin discomfort.
Follow care instructions: Clean your prosthesis gently with mild soap and store it properly to preserve its shape and hygiene.

Emotional Support Matters When Wearing a Breast Prosthesis

Wearing a silicone teardrop or triangle breast form is not just a physical adjustment—it’s an emotional one, too. Many people find that wearing a breast form helps restore a sense of wholeness and confidence during a vulnerable time. Seeking out local support groups, counselors, or speaking with other breast cancer survivors can provide comfort and encouragement during your recovery.

AnaOno Has Breast Forms for Every Unique Individual

There’s no right or wrong way to feel after a mastectomy. Whether you choose to wear a breast prosthesis, pursue reconstruction, or go flat—it’s about what makes you feel empowered and comfortable. That said, a well-fitted breast form can offer a great deal of physical support and emotional reassurance as you heal. When the time comes for you to choose your breast prosthesis, be sure to take your time, ask questions, and seek out professional guidance when needed. You’re not alone on this journey.

If you need help finding the perfect teardrop or triangle silicone breast form for your recovery, just give AnaOno a call at 866-879-1744, or leave us a message online, and one of our fit specialists will quickly respond to your request.