Overview
If you need breast surgery for cancer, you may wonder how you will look afterwards. Some people choose to stay flat, while others want to restore their breast shape.
Find out about the 2 main options available. An external breast prosthesis, also called a breast form, is a breast shape worn outside the body. You can put it in a special pocket in a bra, activewear, swimwear or sleepwear, or attach it directly to your skin.
Another option is breast reconstruction surgery. This creates a new breast shape using your own tissue, an implant, or both. You can have reconstruction at the same time as breast removal surgery or later.
Key questions
About breast prostheses and reconstruction
Breast prostheses and reconstruction both restore breast shape after cancer surgery. Find out more about these options.
Questions for your doctor
It can be a good idea to prepare a list of questions before your appointments. See our list of questions about breast prostheses and reconstruction.
Key steps
Making decisions
Learn more about what to consider when making a decision between breast.
Breast prostheses
Read practical information about wearing a breast prosthesis after breast surgery, to restore shape, balance and confidence.
Breast reconstruction
Breast reconstruction uses surgery to create a new breast shape. It may be done using implants or your own tissue after a breast has been removed.
Find support services
Find the right services for your needs, wherever you are in Australia
Read cancer information
Trusted cancer information for all people affected by cancer
Need to talk to someone?
We're available 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)
