Patient education for women being fitted for breast prostheses

Women who undergo mastectomy or other types of breast surgery often will be fitted for breast prostheses for therapeutic weight replacement as well as cosmetic purposes. Nurses are instrumental in educating women about issues related to breast surgery and in helping to promote psychosocial adjustment to the diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Nurses often are involved in the referral process for breast prostheses. Prostheses and bras that fit properly can be very important in the recovery process and ultimately improve quality of life for cancer survivors. Unlike in the past, many choices are available today for women who opt to use breast prostheses. Prostheses come in different colors, shapes, and weights, and some adhere to the chest wall. Many options also are available for bras, camisoles, and swimsuits, which are helpful adjuncts to the fit of the prosthesis. The purpose of this article is to describe the fitting process and options currently available for breast prostheses. Nurses can use this information to inform women of available breast prostheses options and help prepare them for a fitting.