Getting a new prosthesis

New prosthesis styles are brought in frequently. The NHS will replace your prosthesis when it is damaged or worn out in the course of normal wear.

You can have a reassessment if your prosthesis is no longer a good fit, even if it is still in good condition. This might be the case following a change in your body weight or shape.

You can also be reassessed in other specific circumstances such as if you have problems with your wound healing or with scar tissue. However, the NHS does not have to replace your prosthesis unless there is a good reason to do so.

You can contact your breast clinic to arrange a prosthesis reassessment and fitting, or ask your GP for a referral to the clinic if you are no longer attending check-ups.

New prosthesis styles are brought in frequently; when you need a replacement it is a good idea to have a reassessment rather than simply directly replacing the one you already have. You can ask the fitter to order the style you like if it isn’t in stock.

If you had private surgery but are entitled to NHS treatment, ask your GP to refer you to an NHS breast clinic to be fitted with a free replacement prosthesis. Overseas residents treated in the UK will have to pay for a replacement.

Damaged prostheses

If your prosthesis is damaged due to a manufacturing fault, you should be reassessed and given a new one free of charge if you are an NHS patient.

If it is damaged because you have not followed the care instructions, or have punctured it, you may be charged for its replacement.

If you do puncture your prosthesis the sticky gel inside will be exposed, although it will not flow out. You can repair it temporarily with a waterproof sticking plaster or by covering the whole prosthesis in cling film or plastic wrap.