The History of External Breast Prostheses — From Early Ideas to Amoena and Tracey G

Read on and discover the history of external breast prostheses, how Amoena shaped modern breast forms, and how Tracey G Prosthetics & Lingerie supports women today.

External breast prostheses (also called breast forms) have come a long way. What started as simple padding has evolved into highly advanced, comfortable, natural-looking forms that help women feel confident after breast surgery.

This blog explores the journey from early solutions, through the innovations of Amoena, and finally how Tracey G Prosthetics & Lingerie supports women with expert fitting and care.

Early Beginnings — Simple Padding and Homemade Solutions

Long before modern medical technology, women used whatever they could find to restore shape under clothing after breast surgery. Common items included:

• Fabric pads

• Cotton or wool stuffing

• Rubber or air-filled cushions

These early solutions were far from perfect. They often moved around, didn’t match a woman’s natural shape, and were not very comfortable. But they represented the first steps toward a better idea: creating something that would help women feel balanced, supported and confident again.

The Big Change — Silicone and Modern Materials

Everything changed in the mid-20th century when silicone was introduced. Silicone was soft, flexible and moved more naturally than rubber or fabric. For the first time, breast forms could feel more lifelike.

Key improvements during this period included:

• Silicone gel filling

• More realistic shapes

• Better weight distribution

• Safer and longer-lasting materials

This was an important turning point. Women now had options that were more comfortable, more stable and much more natural under clothing.

Amoena — The Company That Transformed Breast Forms

Amoena became one of the biggest innovators in the breast prosthesis world. Founded in the 1970s in Germany, Amoena focused entirely on making better, more comfortable, and more natural breast forms.

Amoena’s important contributions include:

• The first truly modern silicone breast form

• Two-layer designs that moved more naturally

• Lightweight options for more comfort

• Flowable backs that adapt to uneven areas

• Adhesive options for women wanting closer contact

• Climate-control technology (Comfort+) to reduce heat and irritation

What made Amoena different was its long-term commitment to listening to women, testing new ideas, and investing heavily in research. Today, Amoena remains one of the most trusted breast form brands worldwide.

A Changing Industry — More Choice and Better Support

As medical care improved, so did expectations. Women wanted more than just a product — they wanted choice, comfort and support.

This led to major changes:

• Many new shapes, sizes and weights

• Skin-friendly materials

• Sport-specific and swim-friendly forms

• Soft leisure forms for relaxing at home

• A strong focus on matching a woman’s natural body

The emotional side of recovery also started receiving more attention. Fitting sessions became gentler and more supportive, giving women a safe space to ask questions and feel understood.

The Role of Specialist Fitters — Where Experience Matters

Even the best breast form won’t feel right unless it is properly fitted. This is where trained fitters make a huge difference.

A specialist fitting service helps with:

• Correct size and shape

• Understanding lifestyle needs

• Selecting the right mastectomy bras

• Ensuring comfort around scars and sensitive areas

This personalised approach helps women feel secure, comfortable and confident in their everyday life.

Tracey G Prosthetics & Lingerie — Bringing Innovation to Real Women

Tracey G Prosthetics & Lingerie brings these modern breast forms directly to women across Queensland and regional areas. With more than 15 years of experience, Tracey and her team offer a warm, private and supportive environment where women can feel comfortable throughout the fitting process.

What Tracey G offers:

• Expert professional breast form fitting

• The widest range of Amoena breast forms and pocketed bras

• Post-surgical garments and compression options

• Private air conditioned rooms and a relaxed, caring environment

• Mobile and regional fitting services

• Guidance with Medicare reimbursement and paperwork

Tracey G’s focus is simple: to help women feel like themselves again — comfortable, confident and supported.

Today and the Future — More Comfort, More Choice, More Confidence

Breast prostheses today are lighter, softer and more natural than ever. Women can choose the fit, weight and feel that suits their lifestyle — whether it’s everyday wear, swimming, sports or relaxing at home.

Looking forward, the industry continues to improve with new materials, cooling technology, and even more personalised shapes. But one thing stays the same: the importance of supportive, caring fitting services.

Final Thoughts

The history of breast forms is a story of continuous improvement, driven by a desire to help women feel whole and confident after surgery. From simple padding to high-tech silicone, from early designs to modern innovations by companies like Amoena, the progress has been remarkable.

At the heart of this story now are specialist fitters like Tracey G Prosthetics & Lingerie — bringing these products to life with personalised care, understanding and compassion.