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Breast Form Buying Guide
How to Choose a Breast Form or Prosthesis After Mastectomy
After a mastectomy, figuring out what to wear underneath your clothes should not feel like one more thing to handle alone. We have been serving cancer patients for over 31 years, and we know this particular piece well. This guide walks you through it, step by step.
Nobody prepares you for this part.
The diagnosis. The surgery. The recovery. And then, somewhere in the middle of all of it, you have to figure out what to wear underneath your clothes. Most women say no one at the hospital handed them a guide. They were sent home to sort it out, overwhelmed, still healing, often alone in that particular problem.
That is exactly why we built this page.
A breast form, also called a breast prosthesis, is an external insert worn inside a pocketed mastectomy bra to restore the shape, weight, and symmetry you had before surgery. Done right, it lets you get dressed in the morning without thinking about it. Most women get there. We want to help you get there too.
We will be honest with you about something first. The first time you wear a breast form, it may feel strange. It may bring up emotions you were not expecting. What we hear from customers is that the initial reaction is often not what they expected. It can feel wrong. Grief-inducing. And then, over weeks, it changes. Women who have been wearing forms for years describe checking their chest to make sure they have not forgotten to put it on. That is where you are headed. That is what this guide is working toward.
That place is real. Let us help you find it.
1
When to Start and What to Expect
Two phases, and when to move between them
Recovery moves in two phases when it comes to breast forms. The form you wear in the first weeks is not the same form you will wear long-term. Here is what belongs in each phase, and when to make the transition.
First several weeks post-surgery
Immediate Recovery
Incisions are still healing and tissue is tender. A weighted silicone form is not appropriate yet. The pressure is too much on healing skin.
A soft fiberfill or foam insert inside a front-closure post-surgical bra is the right choice during this phase. These put no pressure on incisions and weigh almost nothing. Extra fiberfill can sometimes be removed to adjust the fit.
If you want a specific place to start, the ABC Triangle Puff is the foam form we recommend most often for early recovery. It is soft, lightweight, universally comfortable, and very affordable. It is a simple, low-risk starting point when you just need something soft and easy to wear right now.
Many women feel no urgency to use any form at all right away. That is completely reasonable, and it is your call.
After surgeon clearance, often around 6 to 8 weeks
Silicone and Long-Term Wear
Many women transition to a silicone breast prosthesis around six to eight weeks post-surgery, but the right timing depends on your healing, swelling, radiation effects, and whether your surgeon has cleared you. Always confirm with your surgeon before ordering. This is when a proper fitting or careful online sizing makes sense.
If you have had radiation, wait until your skin has recovered from that treatment as well. Radiated skin can be sensitive to silicone's weight even after it looks healed on the surface. Ask your surgeon directly before you order.
If you are not sure where to start, the Amoena Natura Light 2S is our default recommendation for most women moving into silicone. It offers average fullness, a symmetrical shape, and soft silicone that warms to your body, making it a dependable starting point. The rest of this guide will help you confirm size and shape before you order.
Most women settle on two or three silicone forms in rotation and replace them every two years, which aligns with most insurance replacement cycles.
What the first wearing actually feels like. It is different for every woman. Some feel an unexpected wave of grief. Some feel relief when they look in the mirror and recognize themselves. Some feel both within the same minute. Whatever comes up is normal. The strangeness fades with time and regular wear.
2
Types of Breast Forms
Understanding what each type is actually designed to do
Before you look at anything specific, here is the lay of the land. Find your surgery type in the box below.
Start here: match your surgery to the right form type.
Single mastectomyfull silicone breast form, sized to match your remaining breast
Double mastectomyfull silicone form on both sides, or no form at all depending on your preference
Lumpectomy or partialpartial shaper or shell to restore symmetry
Reconstruction with asymmetrypartial shaper to balance the difference
Early recovery (any type)foam or fiberfill form until your surgeon clears you for silicone
Everyday wear
Silicone Forms
The most realistic option for long-term daily wear. Medical-grade silicone matches the weight, warmth, and movement of natural breast tissue. For single mastectomy patients, proper weight distribution also matters for posture and spine health over time.
Silicone forms warm to your body during wear and drape naturally under clothing. They last approximately two years with proper care. Several brands now offer breathable outer materials to address heat in warmer months.
Recovery & rotation
Foam & Fiberfill Forms
The right choice during early recovery, for sleeping, warm weather, and low-activity days. Much lighter than silicone. Many women keep one alongside their silicone form and alternate depending on what the day requires.
A good place to start: the ABC Triangle Puff, which is soft, affordable, and universally liked. Foam forms wear out faster than silicone, usually every six to twelve months, but for some women a lightweight form becomes a permanent part of the rotation.
Water & swimming
Swim Forms
Made specifically for pool and ocean use. They are lighter than everyday silicone, dry quickly, and are shaped for comfort and movement in the water. Standard silicone forms are not designed for regular water exposure, and using one in the pool shortens its life.
Worn inside a pocketed mastectomy swimsuit. If you swim at all, a dedicated swim form is worth having. It protects your everyday form and is simply more comfortable in the water.
After lumpectomy
Partial Shapers
Partial shapers restore symmetry after lumpectomy or partial mastectomy without replacing an entire breast. Come in triangular, oval, and shell profiles to fill different areas: top of the breast, outer edge, or throughout.
Also useful if reconstruction left asymmetry on one side, even years later. Bodies change, and a shaper that was not needed before may be exactly right now.
◐
Adhesive and contact forms: bra-free wear
Some forms are designed to be worn directly against the skin using a self-adhesive backing, so you can go without a bra for certain outfits or occasions. These work well for women with fully healed, healthy skin who want more clothing flexibility.
Not suitable for everyone. Radiation history, skin sensitivity, and perspiration all affect how well adhesion works. For most everyday situations a pocketed mastectomy bra is the more secure and comfortable choice. We carry a small selection of adhesive-friendly forms and are expanding that range. Contact us and we can tell you what we currently have.
You do not have to wear a form at all. Some women choose not to, and that is completely valid. Some wear one for certain outfits and go without at home. Some try a form and decide it is not for them. There is no right answer here.
Plan for more than one type over time. Most women end up with a silicone form for everyday, a lightweight form for low-activity days, and a swim form for the pool or beach. You do not need to buy everything at once. Knowing this from the start helps you budget rather than feeling like you have to get it all right in one order.
3
Choosing Your Shape
Match your form to your body and surgery type
Shape decisions come before measurements. They depend on your surgery type, your remaining breast if you had a single mastectomy, and your body's natural lines. Getting the shape right first means the size you measure for actually fits you.
Symmetrical vs. asymmetrical
Breast forms can either be symmetrical or asymmetrical. The right pick for you often depends on the type of surgery you had.
Symmetrical breast forms can be worn on either side of the chest interchangeably. These work well after a standard mastectomy where the chest wall remains relatively flat and even.
Asymmetrical forms are shaped specifically for the left or right side, featuring an underarm extension designed to replace tissue that was removed at the armpit or upper chest area. They are worth considering if you have had lymph nodes removed from under the arm, as they are contoured to fill the hollow that can remain in that area. Women who have had a radical mastectomy involving removal of chest muscle may also find that an asymmetrical form gives a better, more contoured fit than a standard symmetrical form. The chest wall contour is simply different after that surgery, and a symmetrical form may not sit flat against it.
Profile
Profile describes where the volume sits in the form, not the overall size.
Shallow fullness is slimmer at the top with most volume at the bottom.
Average (semi-full) fullness is the most common, balanced and rounded.
Full fullness is rounder with volume at both the top and base.
Profile is particularly important for women who had a single mastectomy. Your natural breast has a fullness profile, and the form should match it for balance, symmetry, and a natural look. A full-fullness form on someone with a shallow remaining breast will never look quite right regardless of the size. If you are unsure of your fullness, look at your remaining breast in a mirror from the side and compare to the descriptions above.
For women who have had a double mastectomy, consider your body type and the shape that you want when selecting your profile.
Form shapes
The shapes below apply to symmetrical forms. Asymmetrical forms vary in contour and extension across brands.
Triangle forms are the most common and most popular form shape. They are wider than they are tall and provide broad coverage across the chest.
- Clothing considerations: Versatile across most clothing styles. The fuller top is more visible under V-necks and lower cuts than tapered shapes.
- Body type considerations: Work well when less breast tissue has been removed and the chest wall is relatively full.
Teardrop / Oval forms are fuller at the bottom and taper toward the top. The tapered top often includes an extension that can be angled toward the underarm. Brand naming varies: Trulife calls this shape Teardrop, Nearly Me calls it Oval.
- Clothing considerations: Work well under V-necks and lower cuts because the tapered top stays invisible.
- Body type considerations: A good choice when some underarm or clavicle tissue was removed. Suit narrower frames or anyone who prefers a softer, less defined profile.
Heart-shaped forms are rounded at the bottom with a gentle notch at the top, designed to mirror the natural drape of a breast where fullness sits below center. The shape can be turned in any direction to achieve the perfect fit. They are less common than triangular or teardrop shapes, but Trulife offers a heart-shaped form.
- Clothing considerations: Work well with underwire bras.
- Body type considerations: A good fit for women whose remaining breast has a fuller lower curve or who have had specific surgical patterns that removed tissue at the upper chest.
A note on softer breast tissue. If your remaining breast is softer and lower-profile, a high-projection triangular form will not match it regardless of size. Look for teardrop or natural-profile options, or brands with softer silicone such as Nearly Me.
Not sure where to start? Choose a silicone form in a size close to your natural breast or pre-surgery size, usually in an average fullness and symmetrical triangle shape. That is the most common starting point for many women after mastectomy. You can refine from there.
Shape matters as much as size. A correctly sized form with the wrong shape will still look off. Size gets you in the right neighborhood. Shape gets you home.
Skin tone matters too. Most silicone breast forms come in a range of skin tones, and each brand offers their own color selection. You will typically need to choose a color when you order. Swim forms are usually clear or neutral, so color is less of a factor there. When in doubt, a shade slightly lighter than your skin tone tends to blend better under clothing than one that is too dark.
4
How to Measure and Find Your Size
Step-by-step at home, and what to know before you order
We know. You are already tired, and now there is a measuring tape involved. This part does not have to be hard. Take it one step at a time, and know that getting close is usually enough to start. You can always refine from there. Breast forms are typically sized in numbers starting at 1 and going up as high as 17 that correlate to bra size, including both your cup and band size. We always recommend remeasuring before purchasing your breast form, since sizes are not universal across brands and your pre-surgery bra size may not carry over. Here is the process that actually works.
You do not have to get this exactly right the first time. Many women adjust their size or shape after the first order. Getting close is enough to start. We can help you refine from there.
Wait until swelling has fully resolved before measuring for your silicone form. Swelling typically diminishes six to eight weeks after surgery. Measuring too early means the form you order may not fit once your body has settled. Use a soft measuring tape, not a metal tape measure, since it needs to follow the curves of your body.
Measure your band size
Wrap the soft tape snugly around your ribcage where your bra band normally sits, level all the way around. Write down this number in inches. Round the number up to the nearest whole number. If you end up with an odd number, round up to the next even number. This measurement is your approximate band size reference.
For a single mastectomy, use your band size and remaining breast to determine your cupStarting at the center of the chest, wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of the remaining breast across the nipple and end at the center of the back. Double that number, then subtract your band size. Each inch of difference equals one cup size.
Inches of Difference = Cup Size
1″
A
2″
B
3″
C
4″
D
5″
DD
6″
DDD / F
7″
G
8″
H
Example: If your band measurement from Step 1 was 34 and your half-bust measurement was 19, double 19 to get 38. Subtract your band size: 38 minus 34 equals 4 inches of difference, which corresponds to a D cup. Your final size is 34D.
For a double mastectomy, work from your frameIf you have had both breasts removed, start from your pre-surgery size if you remember it, or from your body frame: chest width, overall build, and your sense of proportion. A fitter would look at your chest wall width and height to recommend a starting size. If you are unsure where to start, contact us with your measurements and we can help narrow it down before you order.
Use the brand-specific size chartEven at the same size number, the shape, contour, and fullness can differ between brands. Once you have your band and cup reference, check the size chart on the specific product page you are considering. Use the chart to find the size number that correlates with your band and cup size.
When in doubt, size up. If your measurements fall between two sizes, the larger size typically gives better coverage, more natural weight distribution, and stays more securely in the bra pocket. A form that is slightly too small will feel loose in the pocket and shift during the day. Sizing up is almost always the right call when you are uncertain.
Most common mistake: using cup size alone and disregarding band size. Band size influences cup volume. A 32C and a 38C are different sizes even though both are labeled C. Always use both your band and cup measurement together when finding your form size.
Before you reorder, re-measure first. Bodies change with age, with weight, and with how the body heals over time. The form that fit perfectly two years ago may not be right today. Take your measurements again before reordering, and if you are switching brands, check the new brand's size chart against your actual measurements rather than the size number you wore before.
5
How It Should Fit and Feel
How to know when you have found the right one
Once you have the right shape and size, the final piece is checking that it actually fits when you put it on. A good fit means the form sits where it should, stays put through the day, and looks natural under clothing.
How it sits in the bra pocket
A correctly fitted form should sit fully inside the pocketed mastectomy bra without spilling over the top or sides. It should fill the cup the way natural tissue would, touching the center of the bra without gapping, and lying flat against the chest wall at the bottom.
If the form pops out during movement, the pocket may be too small, or the form shape may not suit that particular bra. Not every bra pocket works equally well with every form shape. The bra and the form are a system, not independent choices.
Quick fit check. A well-fitted form means:
- No gaping at the neckline
- No spilling at the sides of the bra cup
- Sits flat against the chest wall at the bottom
- Stays in place throughout the day without adjusting
- Moves naturally with your body rather than shifting as a unit
- Matches the silhouette of your natural side under a fitted top
Sensitive skin? Some forms come with a removable fabric cover, and a soft cotton liner between the form and skin can resolve irritation without needing to change forms entirely. Worth trying before deciding silicone does not work for you.
Know what you need. Ready to shop?
Browse our full collection and find your match.
Shop Breast Forms →
6
The Brands We Carry
An honest comparison so you know where to start
You do not need to become an expert in all four of these. Read enough to know where to start, and come back to the others if your first choice does not work out. We carry four brands because different women need different things, not because you need to research all of them before you can order.
Amoena: a good place to start if you are not sure where to begin
If you are new to breast forms and feeling overwhelmed by the options, Amoena is where we usually suggest starting. Their sizing system is the most structured of the four brands we carry, and in our experience they are among the most widely recommended breast form brands among certified mastectomy fitters.
Made from in-house developed soft, medical-grade silicone, Amoena silicone breast forms feature a multi-layered construction that mimics how the natural breast tissue sits against the chest wall. Size range covers A through H cups across most styles.
Shop Amoena → Decode Amoena sizing →
Trulife: breast form experts for nearly 70 years
Trulife made the world's first commercial breast prosthesis in 1958. Today, they make breast forms in both medical-grade silicone and a softer traditional silicone. They also make lower limb prosthetics and walking aids.
Their lineup includes a solid swim form selection for active water use, lightweight silicone options, and a selection of foam leisure forms, including our only asymmetrical leisure form.
Shop Trulife → See Trulife fit and sizing →
Nearly Me: matched to your tissue density
Nearly Me silicone breast forms are made in the USA in both standard silicone designed to imitate younger breasts and super soft lightweight silicone developed to match the drape of a more mature breast.
One note: Nearly Me only makes symmetrical forms. If you need an asymmetrical form, look at Amoena, Trulife, or ABC.
Shop Nearly Me → See Nearly Me fit and sizing →
ABC (American Breast Care): comfort engineering and product variety
ABC offers many comfort-first silicone forms with options for cooling backs, massage technology, and lightweight construction. They also carry adjustable fullness forms that let you customize your look.
Beyond silicone, ABC has a range of swim forms and weighted and unweighted recovery, leisure, and active options, including a unique microbead form and the comfortable, budget-friendly 910 Triangle Puff.
Shop ABC → See ABC fit and sizing →A Closer Look: Fit and Sizing by Brand
How each brand organizes fullness, shape, and size
Each of the four brands sizes their forms a little differently. Amoena is the only brand that uses a code system to identify each form; the others organize their lineups by named fullness and shape categories.
Sizing varies by brand. Even when sizes match up between brands, keep in mind that fit will vary brand by brand. Make sure to use your own measurements and reference the size chart and sizing conventions for each brand before purchasing, or before reordering if you are switching brands.
Amoena is the only brand we carry that uses a code system to identify each form's fullness, shape, and size.
An Amoena product code combines three pieces of information: cup fullness, shape, and size. Here is how to read each part.
①
Profile
1 Shallow
2 Average
3 Full
②
Shape
S Symmetrical (all symmetrical Amoena forms are triangle forms)
A Asymmetrical: classic side-specific contour, for mastectomies involving removal of axillary lymph nodes.
Other Shapes
E Extra: asymmetrical with a longer underarm extension, for significant tissue removed from the lymph node and axillary area.
U Universal: technically symmetrical, with an extra underarm extension that lets it function like an asymmetrical form. Wearable on either side, rotated as needed.
③
Size (1 through 17)
The size number maps to a specific volume by band and cup. For a 36C, for example, you would use size 6. Full table below.
Symmetrical Size Chart
| Band Size | AA | A | B | C | D | DD | E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| 32 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| 34 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| 36 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
| 38 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| 40 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
| 42 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
| 44 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 |
| 46 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| 48 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| 50 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| 52 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 |
Source: Amoena official size chart. Coverage varies by style; verify against the product page before ordering.
Asymmetrical Size Chart
Because asymmetrical forms are side-specific, ordering requires selecting Left (L) or Right (R) along with the size number.
| Left Code | Right Code | Breast Form Size | Typical Bra Size Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| L000 | R000 | Size 00 | 30A–32A |
| L001 | R001 | Size 1 | 32A–34A |
| L002 | R002 | Size 2 | 34A–34B |
| L003 | R003 | Size 3 | 34B–36A |
| L004 | R004 | Size 4 | 34C–36B |
| L005 | R005 | Size 5 | 36B–38A |
| L006 | R006 | Size 6 | 36C–38B |
| L007 | R007 | Size 7 | 38B–40A |
| L008 | R008 | Size 8 | 38C–40B |
| L009 | R009 | Size 9 | 40B–42A |
| L010 | R010 | Size 10 | 40C–42B |
| L011 | R011 | Size 11 | 42B–44A |
| L012 | R012 | Size 12 | 42C–44B |
| L013 | R013 | Size 13 | 44B–46A |
| L014 | R014 | Size 14 | 44C–46B |
Source: Amoena Natura Light 2A 392 side and size conversion chart. Sizing is approximate and may vary by style.
Where Most Women Start
Amoena Natura Light 2S 390
Average fullness, symmetrical shape so it can be worn on either side, soft lightweight silicone that warms to your body and moves naturally rather than sitting stiffly in the bra. Not the right fit for every body or surgery type, but if you just need a place to begin, start here.
View Natura Light 2S →Natura 320, 390, and 400: What Is the Difference?
These styles are built around the same 2S fit concept, with different weights and comfort features. Size and fit work the same way across all three.
Natura 320
Slightly heavier, closer to traditional silicone weight. A solid everyday option for women who prefer more natural weight distribution.
Natura 390 Light
Lighter and more comfortable for everyday wear. Our default starter recommendation for most women new to silicone.
Natura 400 Xtra Light
The lightest option, designed to reduce weight and pressure. Worth considering if heat or shoulder strain has been a concern.
Nearly Me sizes their forms by combining cup fullness with shape, then matching to your band and cup measurement.
①
Profile
Average: referred to as Semi Full for triangle forms and Tapered for oval/teardrop forms
Full
②
Shape
Triangle, available in Semi Full or Full fullness
Oval/Teardrop, available in Tapered or Full fullness
③
Size
Once you have a fullness and shape in mind, match your band and cup measurement to the Nearly Me size chart below. Their sizing is not interchangeable with Amoena, Trulife, or ABC, so use the chart rather than carrying over a size number from another brand.
| Band Size | AA | A | B | C | D | DD | DDD (E) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32 (70) | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| 34 (75) | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| 36 (80) | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
| 38 (85) | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| 40 (90) | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
| 42 (95) | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
| 44 (100) | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 |
| 46 (105) | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| 48 (110) | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| 50 (115) | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| 52 (120) | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
Source: Nearly Me official fitting guide. Band sizes shown in US (cm). Sizes are a starting guideline; a different style or size may be needed for proper fit.
Where to Start with Nearly Me
Nearly Me #395 Extra Lightweight
Semi-Full triangle in a symmetrical shape worn on either side, made from whipped silicone that is lighter than standard forms. A widely chosen starting point for women new to Nearly Me.
View Extra Lightweight 395 →Trulife uses a shape-first sizing system with a simplified fullness profile.
Trulife sizes their forms by combining cup fullness with shape, then matching to your band and cup measurement.
①
Profile
Trulife's fullness sizing is less structured than other brands. Most silicone forms come in one of two ranges:
Shallow to Average
Average to Full
Some styles are listed at a single fullness (most often Average) rather than a range. The individual product page indicates which approach applies.
②
Shape
Triangle
Oval/Teardrop
Heart
Asymmetrical
Trulife's asymmetrical forms have a concave back to make room for extra tissue at the underarm. This shape is designed for the chest wall contour after unilateral mastectomy with lymph node removal.
③
Size
Once you have a fullness and shape in mind, match your band and cup measurement to the Trulife size chart below. Sizes are not interchangeable with Amoena, Nearly Me, or ABC, so use the chart, not the size number from another brand.
| Band Size | AA | A | B | C | D | DD | DDD (E) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32 (70) | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| 34 (75) | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| 36 (80) | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
| 38 (85) | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| 40 (90) | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
| 42 (95) | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
| 44 (100) | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 |
| 46 (105) | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| 48 (110) | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| 50 (115) | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| 52 (120) | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 |
Source: Trulife official size chart. Band sizes shown in US (cm). Foam breast forms are typically available only up to size 12; sizes above 12 apply to silicone forms only.
Where to Start with Trulife
Trulife Silk Triangle 471
Shallow profile, symmetrical triangle that can be worn on either side, lightweight silicone with a natural drape. Trulife's best-selling form, and a sensible place to begin if you are not sure where to start with the line.
View Silk Triangle 471 →ABC uses shape and features to differentiate styles rather than fullness profile.
Forms are categorized by collection and shape.
①
Collection
Massage Form. A specialized back gently massages the skin.
Diamond. Patented diamond layer back gives a cooling feel and increases evaporation rate.
Ultra Lightweight. Made of the lightest weight silicone.
Standard. Fully weighted silicone that closely resembles breast tissue.
Leisure/Recovery. Weighted and unweighted foam and microbead forms designed for post-surgical and leisure use.
Swim. Clear silicone forms designed for swimming.
②
Shape
Triangle
• Classic: a more rounded variant of the triangle shape
Asymmetrical
③
Size
Once you have a collection and shape in mind, match your band and cup measurement to the ABC size chart below. Sizes are not interchangeable with Amoena, Nearly Me, or Trulife, so use the chart, not the size number from another brand.
Symmetrical Size Chart
| Band Size | AA | A | B | C | D | DD/E | DDD/F |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
| 32 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| 34 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| 36 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
| 38 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| 40 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
| 42 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
| 44 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 |
| 46 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| 48 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | |
| 50 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | ||
| 52 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | |||
| 54 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
Source: ABC standard size chart. Form sizes run 1 through 14; empty cells mean ABC does not offer that band/cup combination. ABC also offers larger cup sizes (G, GG, H) at select bands; see specific product pages for those.
Triangle Puff Size Chart (Style 910)
The Triangle Puff foam form uses letter sizing (S through XXL) rather than the numerical system. If you are shopping the Triangle Puff specifically, use this chart instead.
| Band Size | A | B | C | D | DD/E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | S | S | S | M | M |
| 32 | S | S | M | M | L |
| 34 | S | M | M | L | L |
| 36 | M | M | L | L | XL |
| 38 | M | L | L | XL | XL |
| 40 | L | L | XL | XL | XXL |
| 42 | L | XL | XL | XXL | XXL |
| 44 | XL | XL | XXL | XXL | XXL |
Source: ABC Triangle Puff (style 910) size chart.
Where to Start with ABC
For Recovery: Triangle Puff 910
Soft, lightweight, affordable, and one of the most-recommended early-recovery forms across the entire category. A simple, low-risk starting point when you just need something soft and easy to wear right now.
View Triangle Puff 910 →7
Caring for Your Breast Form
Simple habits that protect your investment
Once you have found the right form, taking care of it is simple. A few habits and it becomes part of the routine, like washing your face before bed. Here is what matters.
Washing
Silicone forms: Wash daily or after each wear by hand using lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free soap. Hold the form under running water rather than submerging it, and rinse thoroughly so no residue remains against your skin the following day. Pat dry with a soft cloth.
Foam forms: Generally machine washable on a gentle cycle inside a mesh laundry bag. Check the care label for the specific form you have.
Air dry both types. Do not use a hair dryer or place either in direct sunlight.
Storage
✓
Store your form in the protective case it came in. The case is shaped to hold it correctly so it does not flatten or distort between wearings. If you have lost the original case, a shallow bowl lined with a soft cloth is a workable substitute.
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Do not store forms stacked on top of each other or compressed under other items. Sustained pressure changes the shape of silicone over time. The form you pull out next morning should be exactly the shape it was when you put it away.
What damages a form
- Pool chemicals and salt water: Frequent exposure can affect the outer surface of a silicone form over time. A dedicated swim form is the better option for regular water use.
- Sunscreen, body lotion, and body oils: These can break down the silicone surface if not washed off after each wear.
- Talcum powder: Avoid using it near the form or on the skin where the form will sit.
- Heat: Do not leave a silicone form in a parked car, near a heater, or in direct sunlight. Sustained heat can warp the shell and alter the weight distribution of the fill.
- Sharp objects: Avoid contact with rings, pins, and other items that could puncture the silicone shell.
Inspect your form periodically for small cracks in the shell.
When to replace
Signs that your form needs replacing:
- Visible cracking, splitting, or pitting in the outer shell
- Loss of shape that does not return after overnight storage
- A change in weight or feel suggesting the internal gel has shifted
- Any leakage of gel
With proper daily care, plan for a silicone form to last two years. Foam forms wear out faster, usually every six to twelve months. Most insurance plans cover replacement on a two-year cycle, which aligns with the silicone lifespan when cared for well.
Always follow your specific product's care instructions. The guidelines above apply to most silicone and foam forms, but care requirements can vary by brand and style. Check the care label or product page before washing. When in doubt, hand wash with mild soap and air dry.
8
Insurance Coverage
What you are entitled to, and how to actually get it
Insurance paperwork after everything you have already been through is unfair. The good news is that most plans do cover breast forms, and the process is manageable once you know the steps. Here they are.
Call your insurer before you purchase, and use the right wordsAsk specifically about coverage for an "external breast prosthesis." Do not say breast form, bra insert, or prosthetic. Ask how many are covered per year, whether there is a dollar limit per item, whether any brands are excluded, and whether you need prior authorization before purchasing. Write down the name of the person you spoke with and the date. This call protects you.
Get a written prescription from your physicianMost insurance plans require a current prescription that explicitly states you need an external breast prosthesis following mastectomy or lumpectomy. Ask your surgeon or oncologist. It is a routine request they handle regularly. Some insurers will not accept prescriptions older than six months, so timing matters if you are waiting to order.
Understand your plan's payment process before you orderCoverage workflows vary by insurer and supplier. Some plans work as reimbursement after purchase. Others require supplier billing or prior authorization. Ask your insurer which process applies before you order, so you are not surprised after the fact.
Make sure your paperwork uses the right languageYour documentation should clearly identify the item as an external breast prosthesis and match what your specific insurer requires. Exact requirements vary by payer, so confirm before you order. If your receipt does not include this language, contact us and we will provide documentation with the correct terminology. This is a common request and we are glad to help.
Keep everything, and appeal if deniedKeep copies of your prescription, your receipt, your claim submission, and any correspondence from your insurer. If a claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. The most common reasons for denial are incorrect terminology on the receipt, a missing prescription, or a missed prior authorization requirement, all of which are fixable on appeal. Do not accept a denial as final without understanding why.
Medicare note: Medicare Part B covers some external breast prostheses and post-surgical bras after mastectomy as durable medical equipment (DME). Coverage for the prosthesis is generally limited to one per side for the useful lifetime of the item, typically two years for silicone. Earlier replacement may be covered if the form is lost, irreparably damaged, or your medical needs change. Coverage for bras and related garments depends on medical necessity and documentation. You are responsible for the Part B deductible and 20% coinsurance. If you have a Medigap or supplemental plan, check whether it covers that 20%.
FSA and HSA accounts. Breast forms are an eligible expense under most Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA). If you have either account, you can use those pre-tax funds to pay for your form, which effectively reduces the out-of-pocket cost by whatever your tax rate is. Check your plan's specific eligible expense list, but this is a widely covered category.
We have successfully worked with all major insurance providers for over 31 years. We do not file claims on your behalf, but we will provide a receipt with the correct clinical language and any supporting documentation your insurer needs.
Common Questions
What women ask us before their first order
Yes. What we hear from customers is that the first wearing often feels wrong. Strange. Not like you. The grief can arrive unexpectedly, not during diagnosis or surgery, but here, standing in front of a mirror trying to get dressed. The strangeness of wearing something unfamiliar, the emotion when you look at yourself. All of this is part of adjustment, not a sign that something is wrong with you or with the form. Most women find that within a few weeks of regular wear, the form becomes background noise. That place is real. Give it time before you decide anything.
With a proper fit, no. The silhouette under clothing is the goal, not perfection viewed close-up. A well-chosen form in the right size, inside a pocketed mastectomy bra that fits correctly, reads as completely natural under real clothing. Many women close to people who wear breast forms every day have no idea. The practical test is to put on a close-fitting knit top over the bra and form, in natural light, and look in the mirror. What you see is what the world sees. That is the test that actually matters.
No, but it is strongly recommended. A mastectomy bra has internal pockets sewn into each cup that hold the form securely against the chest wall, so it does not shift or pop out during movement. A regular bra can technically hold a breast form, but without a pocket the form is less secure and tends to shift more, especially during activity. If you want to use bras you already own, a tailor can sometimes add pockets, but a properly designed mastectomy bra is the most comfortable and secure choice for daily wear.
Some breast forms are designed to be worn directly against the skin using a self-adhesive backing, which holds the form in place without a bra. This works well for some women and not at all for others. Radiation history, skin sensitivity, and perspiration all affect adhesion. For most everyday situations, a pocketed mastectomy bra is the more secure and comfortable choice. If skin-worn wear is something you need, contact us and we can let you know what we currently carry that fits that situation.
Yes. Swim breast forms are designed specifically for water activity. They are lighter, dry faster, and are shaped for better comfort and movement in the water than everyday forms. A dedicated swim form also helps preserve your everyday silicone prosthesis, which is not intended for regular pool or ocean use. If you swim with any frequency, having a separate swim form is worth it.
Silicone forms generally last about two years with proper daily care, while foam forms wear out faster, usually every six to twelve months. Most insurance plans cover replacement on a two-year cycle, which aligns with the silicone lifespan when cared for well.
Many plans cover breast forms as medically necessary after mastectomy, but coverage varies significantly by insurer. Some plans reimburse after purchase; others require supplier billing or prior authorization before you order. You will almost always need a prescription from your physician. Call your insurer before ordering, ask specifically about "external breast prosthesis" coverage, and confirm which process applies to your plan. We have worked with all major insurers for over 31 years and will provide whatever documentation your insurer needs.
You know what you need. Let us help you find it.
Shop silicone, foam, swim, and partial prostheses from Amoena, Trulife, Nearly Me, and ABC, with size charts and full product detail on every page.
Keep Learning
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Mastectomy Tattoos
A look at decorative tattooing as a meaningful option for women considering an alternative to reconstruction or breast forms.
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When to follow up with your doctor or care team. A well-fitted form should feel comfortable and cause no skin problems. Talk to your care team if you notice any of the following: persistent redness, irritation, or rash under or around the form; new swelling in the arm, chest, or underarm area; shoulder, neck, or back pain that develops or worsens; significant changes in how the form fits following surgery or treatment; or any chest wall hollows or asymmetry that makes fitting difficult. These can all be addressed, but they deserve professional attention rather than a sizing workaround.
This guide is for informational purposes only. It does not replace advice from your surgeon, oncologist, or certified mastectomy fitter. If you have questions about your specific situation, please consult your care team.
© 2026 Headcovers Unlimited, Inc. · All rights reserved. · Breast Form Buying Guide
Comments, Questions & Ratings
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Like the contoured need a fit for 36c right only (Posted on 03/20/2026)