Surgery offers one way forward after a mastectomy but won’t be everyone’s choice. If the concept of further medical treatment doesn’t appeal, there’s always the option of wearing prosthesis (artificial breast shape).

Immediately after surgery, the patient will be able to wear a lightweight artificial breast shape inside her bra. These feel like soft cushions and are often referred to as ‘comfy breasts’. Many different types of artificial breast shapes are available free on the NHS, with a new replacement offered every two years. (Private patients may need to pay for this service.)

Once all the scars from surgery have healed and radiotherapy finished, a permanent prosthesis can be worn. (These are fuller and heavier, and normally made from silicone.) The breast shapes come in different sizes and colours and are designed to fit inside your bra and provide a natural shape under clothes. Additionally, there are also specially designed bras for sports and swimming. Here are some BRA Foundation recommendations for suppliers of mastectomy, post-surgery bras and underwear:

  • Former patient, Annette Eley, uses her own knowledge of breast cancer and radiotherapy for her range of underwear: www.annettedesigns.co.uk
  • Nicolajane.com is a well-established supplier of great looking and comfortable underwear, nightwear and swimwear for post-mastectomy women, some modelled by breast cancer patients. The company also sell prostheses and has a prosthesis helpline: 0845 095 2121. www.nicolajane.com
  • Rigby and Peller have been in the underwear business for over 40 years and are a leading brand. They also offer a personalised bra fitting and advice service to women who’ve undergone mastectomy. www.rigbyandpeller.com
  • Eloise.com for mastectomy underwear, including sports bras and accessories www.eloise.co.uk
  • And of course there’s the UK staple, www.marksandspencer.com

Here is a selection of recommended organisations that offer patients further support and advice on prosthesis, and where to buy them: