Air travel and your prosthesis

Travelling by aeroplane? Here we offer advice on how to look after your breast prosthesis while flying, as well as how to avoid any potentially embarrassing moments at airport security.

Is it safe to wear my prosthesis when flying?

Yes, it is safe to wear your breast prosthesis when flying because in most modern aircraft, cabins are pressurised.

Is it safe to pack a prosthesis in with my check-in luggage?

Should you decide to pack your prosthesis in your luggage, because the hold is not pressurised, some small airbubbles may appear in the rear of the prosthesis. This will only happen if your prosthesis has a clear back. These small bubbles will disappear as soon as you are back down to sea level and will cause no harm to your prosthesis. 

If you have a lightweight prosthesis, small bubbles will appear as black dots.  Again, these cause no harm what so ever and will disappear soon after you are back on the ground. 

Will airport security scanners detect my prostheses?

Generally, airport security scanners won't pick up the silicone gel in your prosthesis.

However, we have received some queries from breast cancer patients about the introduction of full body security scanners at some airports in the UK, following the attempted terrorist attack on Northwest airlines to Detroit on Christmas day 2009.

To find out more information, visit our body scanners in UK airports page.

Do I need a doctor's letter to wear my prosthesis while flying?

Not usually. However, to prevent any distress, we suggest you call the airline you are travelling with to find out whether a doctor's letter may be needed to say that the prosthesis is being worn for medical reasons.

Alternatively, you may find wearing a 'softie' or 'cumfie' during the flight and packing your prosthesis in the check-in baggage is an easier option.