Giving Voice to Canadians Concerned About Breast Cancer
helping you understand your surgical options
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A breast prosthesis is a good choice if you’re uncertain about reconstruction or if you don’t feel strong enough at the time to face such a long surgery, or if surgery just isn’t right for you. After wearing the prosthesis for a while, you’ll be better able to decide which option is right for you.
Breast prostheses are made up of a variety of light weight and natural materials, including cotton, foam and silicone. The breast form sits easily into mastectomy bras and looks very natural in clothing.
For a pre-made silicone prosthesis, the average cost is between $250 and $500. For custom prosthesis the cost can be up to $5,000. A mastectomy bra with pockets to hold the prosthesis is an added cost. You can buy a bra with pockets or have pockets sewn into a regular bra.
These costs are partially covered by some provincial health insurance programs. View a complete list of what’s covered in each province. For the remaining cost, your private health insurance may pay; check with your insurer. For women who cannot afford a breast prosthesis, some communities have “prostheses banks” that provide prostheses for little or no charge. To find a boutique in your area, visit the Canadian Cancer Society website, enter your postal code, and click on prostheses.