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A new breast prosthesis that is 41% lighter promises to enhance the quality of life of patients who have undergone a mastectomy.
According to Ilse Jordaan, who has been working with the fitting of breast prostheses and bras in Bloemfontein and Kimberley for the past 20 years, these new prostheses are made of silicone and will be much more comfortable than the older, heavier ones.
“It is important for patients to wear a breast prosthesis after a mastectomy to prevent problems with their backs and necks,” she explains.
Jordaan received training in the fitting of breast prostheses in Germany.
“What originated as a struggle with breast asymmetry as a young girl has grown into a passion for helping cancer patients,” she says.
Her struggles had a big effect on her self-esteem, and she only learned years later that her problem could be addressed.
Her own experience spurred her on to help women obtain a good body form and prevent health issues through the use of a suitable prosthesis.
“I can help patients who suffered the loss of one or both breasts to feel feminine again.”
She can also help women who have undergone a lumpectomy.
“It often happens that a breast shrinks after a part of the tissue, or a tumour, is removed.
“This can be corrected with a silicone breast prosthesis that fits discreetly into the bra’s cone bag.”
This breast prosthesis offers an alternative to reconstruction or can be worn while the woman awaits reconstructive surgery.
“I build a relationship with each patient who visits me to fit a breast prosthesis.
“It is about much more than just the physical process. For most women, talking about their body is a form of therapy.”
Jordaan also helps women who are awaiting a mastectomy to get information about their options after the operation.
“Many women suffer for years with the pain of ugly scars due to surgery or disproportionate breasts, and I want to empower them with information.”
She uses a range of prostheses called American Breast Care (ABC Breast Care) made in Germany and America.
“This prosthesis must be worn with a fitted bra, because it is too heavy for bras that are available in shops.”
The bras, which need to be replaced yearly, can be ordered from Jordaan.
She also supplies a range of stylish hats for patients who undergo chemotherapy.
- Interested parties can contact Jordaan by sending an email to ilsejordaan@shisas.com. Most medical aids cover breast prostheses under the oncology benefits.
