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Breast prosthetics

Do you have less hassles packing breast prosthetics or wearing them? I get stopped either way even when showing a card indicating I have them. On 10+ hour flights it's more comfortable without wearing them.

Posted by
1606 posts

I cannot answer your question from personal experience. The closest I can come was once asking a very young TSA agent what the most embarrassing thing he ever found when searching a bag. He answered very shyly, “female body parts”. I suspect it was more embarrassing for him than the passenger. She probably told him what he would find.

Posted by
32 posts

When I used my medical breast prosthesis, I didn’t wear them when I flew, for comfort reasons mostly.

I don’t wear them at all now. They were uncomfortable and hot. I generally just wear a comfortable short sleeve t-shirt (patterns work better to distract from the lack of breasts) on the plane, knowing the hot flashes will happen. I also bring a very small battery operated fan to help with the hot flashes and I bring a lightweight sweater to handle the chill after the sweats. In my carry-on I pack my Knitted Knockers. These are very lightweight and comfortable and can be used with a regular bra. They are made by a fantastic non-profit organization supported by women who voluntarily crochet them.

I try more and more not to wear any kind of prosthesis, so I don’t have to wear a bra. Breast cancer took away many things in my life so I try to enjoy this one benefit. I will say, I have yet to notice another woman do the same so it is sometimes difficult.

Posted by
13 posts

I rarely wear them around here, but we are going to Paris ‼️‼️. And clothes just DO LOOK better with them. Yes, they are hot and uncomfortable for the most part.

Posted by
86 posts

I do not have breast prosthetics, but I have had breast cancer. I had a lumpectomy on one side which necessitated a plastic surgeon doing a reduction and rearrangement of both--from a D cup down to what is supposed to be a B but which is more like an A. The scars underneath mine are still very painful to wear even a bra made for breast cancer survivors so I usually do not wear one at all. I have wondered whether I would feel comfortable sans bra on a trip or whether I would be self-conscious. I could not wear a bra 8 hours now so a 10+ hour flight would be out of the question. Please let us know what you decide to do and how it works out because it would be extremely helpful for others of us in a similar situation.

Posted by
10 posts

I have not had any problems with TSA (or the European equivalent) while wearing my prostheses since my surgery 2 years ago. This is both with lightweight foam and heavier silicone versions.

I did sleep in them on overnight flights but did not wear them for hiking. If you’re ok with a pull on style, check out “Joy bras” on Amazon.

Posted by
13 posts

Thank you to Wanderer from GA.
I ordered a set of knit knockers and love them. That's what I'm going to pack. Not wear in plane. But they are so light and comfy I will just toss them into bag. Thank you SOOOOO much. Mine came in less than one week. I'm all set and happy as can be. 🥰🥰

Posted by
32 posts

I am so happy you have found the Knitted Knockers useful. They truly made a difference in my long term recovery. The volunteers are a blessing to the breast cancer community.

They are lightweight and I find myself pulling them down a bit but I’ve used them for a couple of years now and am very grateful for them.

Have a safe and comfortable trip.