Most women choose to wear breast forms for a variety of reasons. Maybe you’ve had a mastectomy and are looking for a way to feel whole again. Maybe you’re transgender or gender non-conforming and want your chest to match your gender identity. Or maybe you simply want to add some extra curves to your figure.

 

Whatever your reason, we’re here to help you find the perfect breast forms for you!

 

 

 

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Breast Forms: Types, Shapes, and More! | Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

What Are Breast Forms?

 

There are a number of ways to achieve the appearance of breasts, including breast surgery and breast forms.

Breast surgery is a surgical procedure that alters your breast size and shape. There are a variety of breast surgeries available, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction. Each type of reconstructive surgery has its own risks and benefits, so it's important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine which procedure is right for you.

Breast surgeries can be done for cosmetic reasons, or to correct a birth defect or medical condition. However, many women who have undergone breast cancer surgery or breast removal choose other breast reconstruction alternatives, such as wearing breast forms.

Breast forms are artificial breasts that can be worn under clothing to create the appearance of a fuller chest or to resemble the look and feel of natural breast tissue. They can be attached directly to the skin or worn inside a mastectomy bra or a regular bra. They can also be temporary or permanent, depending on the needs of the individual.

 

What Are Breast Forms Made Of?

 

Breast forms come in many different shapes, sizes, and materials. The most common types of breast forms are made from:

 

• Silicone Form

The most common type of breast form is made of silicone. A silicone breast form is designed to look and feel like real breasts. It's available in different sizes and skin tones to match your natural skin color. You can also find silicone breast forms that have different nipple colors and textures.

• Leisure Form

Essentially, leisure forms are non-silicone forms. They're made of softer materials, such as foam, and are designed to be more comfortable to wear. They're often used during the healing process of post-mastectomy patients or those who've had breast reconstruction surgery.

• Custom-Made Form

Custom-made breast forms are an option for women who want a more natural feel and look. These forms are made from a plaster cast of your chest and then painted to match your complexion. Custom-made forms can also be made from silicone or other materials.

 

What Are the Different Types of Breast Forms?

 

There are four main types of breast forms:

 

• Full Form

As the name suggests, a full breast form provides a full-size option for women who have undergone a mastectomy or who have otherwise lost their breasts. They're also a good option for women who are looking for more coverage.

Full forms are attached directly to the skin, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit different body types. They can be worn on a daily basis or just for special occasions.

• Partial Form

A partial breast form is a breast prosthesis that replaces part of the breast. It's designed to fill in the natural contours of your chest, giving you a more defined shape. It's also ideal for wear under clothing, specifically inside the bra cup, as it'll help to create a smooth silhouette.

Partial forms can be a good choice if you're not ready for a full breast prosthesis, or if you only need to replace a small amount of breast tissue. They're also easy to put on and take off, and they're usually more affordable than full prostheses.

• Shell Form

A shell form is a type of breast form that's specially designed to fit over the existing breast tissue and closely resembles the shape of a natural breast. It's filled with silicone gel and is designed to be worn with a bra.

Some women prefer shell form prostheses because they provide a natural look and feel. Others also find them more comfortable to wear than other types of partial breast prostheses.

• Stick-on or Self-Adhesive Breast Form

If you're looking for a breast form that's easy to apply and remove, a stick-on may be the right form for you.

Stick-on forms are self-adhesive, so all you need to do is peel off the backing and apply them to your chest. They're also waterproof, so you can wear them in the shower or pool without worry.

And when you're ready to remove them, simply peel them off and wash the area with soap and water.

 

What Are the Different Shapes of Breast Forms?

 

If you're considering breast reconstruction, it's important to choose a form that'll complement your natural body shape.

 

Here's a brief overview of the most popular breast form shapes:

 

• Round

Round forms are the most popular type of breast form. They provide fullness and symmetry to the chest, and can be worn with or without a bra.

• Teardrop

Teardrop forms are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast. They're slightly narrower at the top and fuller at the bottom, making them ideal for women with a slimmer build.

• Asymmetrical

Asymmetrical forms are ideal for women who have had a unilateral mastectomy (removal of one breast). They're usually fuller at the bottom to compensate for the loss of volume on one side of the chest or the upper chest wall.

• Contoured

Contoured forms have a more natural shape than round or teardrop forms. They're often used in conjunction with prosthetic nipples to create a more realistic appearance.

 

 

RELATED: What Is A Mastectomy? | Everything You Need To Know

 

 

How Do You Choose the Right Breast Form?

 

When choosing a breast form, it's important to keep in mind the following factors:

 

• Look and Feel

The first thing you'll want to consider is how the breast form looks and feels. You'll want to choose a form that closely resembles your natural breast in terms of size, shape, and color.

The best way to do this is to be properly measured by a certified mastectomy fitter who can help you find the right breast form size and shape for your body type. Once you have your measurements, you can shop around for different styles online or in person at a lingerie store.

• Fit and Function

Another important consideration is how well the breast form fits your body and performs its intended function. You'll want to make sure that the form is comfortable to wear and that it doesn't cause any pain or discomfort.

You'll also want to make sure that the form stays in place and doesn't move around too much. If you're planning on wearing the form on a daily basis, it's important to choose one that won't need to be adjusted frequently.

• Cup Size

Usually, breast form cup sizes range from A cup to DD cup. It's important to choose a size that's proportionate to your body and fills out your bra cups nicely so that your overall look is balanced. 

If you’re shopping online, make sure to read the product descriptions carefully so you know what you’re getting. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the customer service department of the store or website you’re shopping on. They should be able to help you find the perfect breast forms for your needs.

• Color

The color of the form should closely match your skin tone so that it looks natural. If you have fair skin, you'll want to choose a light-colored form. Meanwhile, if you have dark skin, you'll want to choose a dark-colored form.

• Texture

There are three main types of textures: smooth, textured, and contoured.

Smooth breast forms have a smooth surface all around. This type of form is good for everyday wear and can be worn with any type of clothing.

Meanwhile, textured breast forms have a raised surface, which can provide more stimulation. They're also good for everyday wear, but may not be as comfortable under tight clothing.

Contoured breast forms, on the other hand, have a raised edge around the nipple area. This type of form is great for special occasions or when you want to add a little extra definition to your look.

• Weight

Heavier forms tend to be more realistic, but they can also be more difficult to manage. If you have a larger frame, you may be able to handle a heavier form. If you have a smaller frame, you may want to choose a lighter form.

• Material

Silicone is a popular choice because it feels similar to real skin, but it can be expensive. Foam forms are a budget-friendly option, but they may not look as realistic.

If you have sensitive skin, you'll want to choose a form made of hypoallergenic materials. And if you're looking for an eco-friendly option, there are now breast forms made of recycled materials!

• Cost

Most breast forms can range in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. It's important to choose a form that's within your budget and that meets your needs.

Your health insurance company may be able to get some or all of the cost of the breast form covered.

 

How Do You Care For Your Breast Forms?

 

Taking care of your breast forms is important to ensure that they last as long as possible. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

 

• Avoid Sharp Objects

These include things like rings, nails, and teeth. Sharp objects can scratch or puncture the surface of your breast forms, which can lead to leaks.

• Store Them Properly

When you're not wearing your breast forms, make sure to store them in a soft, dry place. This will help to keep them in good condition. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or in a humid environment.

• Clean Them Regularly

You should clean your breast forms at least once a week with a mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh cleaning products, as this can damage the surface of the breast form. If you notice any cracks or tears, apply a thin layer of silicone gel to help protect the form.

• Air Dry Them

Air drying your breast prostheses helps to prevent bacteria growth and keeps them free of any moisture that can lead to skin irritation.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Whether you’re looking for a way to feel whole after a mastectomy or just want to add some extra curves, breast forms can be a great option. And with so many different styles and sizes available, there’s sure to be a perfect set of breast forms out there for everyone! Just make sure to get measured by a professional before shopping so you know what size and shape will work best for your body type. With a little bit of research, you’ll be ready to rock your new set of breast forms in no time!

 

 

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