Look Ma, a New Boob!

For those of you who want to know but are afraid to ask, here is what the fake boob looks like, front & back. Actually, the insurance company refers to it as a "durable medical device", which I find hilarious. The blue case it is sitting on is its "cradle". Apparently, it is to be babied. It does take a little getting used to once you are used to not having one. A silicone breast prosthesis is weighted and simulates the natural breast. One of its advantages is that it helps your body be symmetrical again and remain in balance. When the body is out of balance following a surgery of this kind, other muscle-skeletal problems can develop. Back, neck and shoulder problems are common as well as a tendency for one shoulder to drop downward and inward while the other rises up. Women also often report that the bra rides up or moves around if there is no weighted breast form on one side of the bra. Special bras are made that have pockets to hold the prosthesis. There are many attractive bras that come in varying colors (e.g., white, ivory, black, & nude/beige) that can be fitted at the time of the prosthesis.

I have decided that I do not want to have only one breast reconstructed. If I can't have 2 new, perky boobies, then just forget it. Also, when women have only 1 breast reconstructed, they run the risk of asymmetry if they gain or lose weight in the future. Natural breast tissue will respond to the change in the subcutaneous fat layer by changing shape. The reconstructed breast has had the fat layer disturbed and will not respond in kind. Implants can migrate, causing unusual fullness in the anterior or lateral chest wall. Some women are opting to have their implants removed completely. They are sometimes left with a small tissue mound for a breast. Prostheses can be used to even out the change in appearance without requiring additional surgery.

I'm hoping to put on my new "durable medical device" (a.k.a. new boob) and go skating to see if I can tell the difference in my balance while wearing the prostheses. My plan is to go skating tomorrow night, if the weather isn't too bad. I'll keep you updated!