We often talk about the prosthesis: its colour, its shape, its projection. We talk less about what lies underneath. Yet the skin does all the work. Clean, dry, rested skin means a prosthesis that holds better and a more comfortable everyday life.
After a mastectomy, that skin has often been through a lot: a scar, sometimes radiotherapy, sometimes a sensitivity that has changed. It deserves a little attention. The good news: a few simple habits are enough.
Before the very first application
A nipple prosthesis is applied to healed skin. In general, this is possible as soon as the stitches are removed, with the agreement of your medical team. If you are having radiotherapy, or if the skin is still red, thin or sensitive after treatment, ask your care team first: they know your skin.
For a very first application, you can do a small test: a thin dab of adhesive on an area of healthy skin, for a few hours, to see how it reacts. There is no rush.
Preparing the skin
This is the step that changes everything, and it takes two minutes.
- Wash the area with water and a mild soap to remove any trace of cream, oil, lotion or make-up.
- Pat dry, without rubbing.
- Wait until the skin is completely dry before applying anything.
The most common trap? Your morning moisturiser. It is good for your skin, but it stops the adhesive from gripping. Keep it for the evening, after removal.
Applying gently
Our B-460 medical adhesive is CE Class 1 certified and designed for sensitive skin and scar areas. To help it do its job:
- Shake the bottle before each use.
- Apply a thin, even layer with a cotton bud, a latex-free sponge or a clean brush, on the skin, on the prosthesis, or on both.
- Let it dry completely: the adhesive only really grips once it is dry.
- Press the prosthesis firmly for a few moments. The firmer the pressure, the better the hold.
No need to use a lot: a thin layer is enough, and it is gentler on the skin.
Removing without pulling
This is the step we are tempted to rush, and it is the one the skin remembers most. Never pull the prosthesis off in one go. Apply a little Probond G608 solvent under the edges, leave it for a few seconds, then lift gently. A last touch of solvent removes any residue, and a gentle wash with soap and water finishes the job.
This is the right moment for your moisturiser.
Letting it breathe
The adhesive can hold for up to ten days, even in the shower or during sport. That is no reason never to take a break. Between two applications, give your skin a night or a few hours in the open air. It gets to rest, and the next application will feel all the nicer.
Remember to clean the prosthesis well between applications too: a clean prosthesis means better adhesion next time.
Listening to your skin
A light pink mark after removal that fades quickly is nothing to worry about. On the other hand, some signs call for a break and medical advice:
- redness that lasts several hours;
- itching or a burning sensation;
- small blisters or peeling skin;
- a scar that reopens.
If this happens, remove the prosthesis, leave the skin alone and talk to your doctor or care team. You can start again when your skin is ready.
In short
Clean, dry skin with no cream, a thin layer, firm pressure, removal without pulling and regular breaks. With these small rituals, the prosthesis becomes part of everyday life, and your skin stays on your side. A question about application or about your skin? Write to us, that is what we are here for.