Which is Right for You?
Breast Forms
vs Breast Plates
Ah, fake boobs. The ultimate accessory to a diverse range of people. From trans women, crossdressers, and drag queens to those who have undergone a mastectomy, fake breasts are an essential piece to making yourself feel confident and content in your silhouette. The consideration comes when it’s time to make a decision on what will work best for you, a breast form (and it’s various levels of quality) or a breast plate. Ensuring you make the right decision is crucial for your day-to-day ease, security and mobility. Today we will be looking at the different types of breast forms, breast plates, and what you should consider when deciding what is right for you.
Understanding
Types of Breast Forms
Silicone Breast Forms
Breast forms and breast prostheses are specially designed accessories that replicate the shape, weight, and feel of a single natural breast. Breast forms are typically used by individuals who want to enhance their chest appearance, such as those who have undergone mastectomies, crossdressers, and transgender individuals. They are often made from silicone, foam, or other padded fabrics that mimic the softness and contours of natural breast tissue. Silicone breast forms are the typical go-to as they most closely resemble a natural busts look, feel and movement. Breast forms will range in price and quality from cheap $50 forms to moderately priced around the $200 mark. Beyond this price point you will likely be looking at medical grade prosthetics like those used for mastectomies.
Mastectomy Forms
Mastectomy Breast prostheses, are a subset of breast forms specifically tailored for individuals who have lost one or both breasts due to surgery (such as a mastectomy) or medical conditions. Around the $400 mark (each), these medical grade breast prosthesis provide a very realistic look and feel as they are meticulously crafted to match different skin tones, shape and projection. Due to the intricate nature and the high value, you will need a breast prosthesis fitting from an accredited fitter.
Swim Forms
Finally, we have swim forms. These are specialised breast forms designed specifically for use in water activities, such as swimming, and other aquatic exercises. Made from water-resistant materials like silicone, swim forms are crafted to withstand prolonged exposure to water without losing their shape, buoyancy, or integrity. Utilising additional texturing allows water to gracefully flow under the form without suctioning to the body. These forms are generally made from a clear silicone providing both aesthetic appeal and functional support.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable.
- Varying levels of affordability.
- Easy to insert and remove.
- Suitable for everyday use.
- Available in various shapes and sizes.
Cons
- Limited to the breast area.
- May not blend seamlessly with the chest.
- Less realistic cleavage compared to plates.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable.
- Varying levels of affordability.
- Easy to insert and remove.
- Suitable for everyday use.
- Available in various shapes and sizes.
Cons
- Limited to the breast area.
- May not blend seamlessly with the chest.
- Less realistic cleavage compared to plates.
Breast Plates
Breast plates provide a comprehensive chest enhancement that provides a realistic and seamless look by covering the entire chest area. Generally available in a tank or bib design, they are commonly used by performers, cosplayers, and crossdressing individuals seeking a more pronounced and natural-looking bust for a shorter period of time due to the heavy nature and possible irritations. Breast plates come in two primary types: silicone and cotton-filled. Silicone breast plates are highly favoured for their lifelike feel and realistic movement compared to cotton filled which are lighter but not as realistic. While they may not offer the same level of realism as silicone, cotton-filled breast plates are a more affordable and comfortable option for those seeking an enhanced chest appearance without the added weight.
Pros
- Full chest coverage.
- Highly realistic appearance.
- Ideal for performances & special occasions.
Cons
- Heavier and potentially uncomfortable for long periods.
- More expensive than breast forms.
- Can be restrictive and less breathable.
- Neckline needs to be covered for a seamless look.
Pros
- Full chest coverage.
- Highly realistic appearance.
- Ideal for performances & special occasions.
Cons
- Heavier and potentially uncomfortable for long periods.
- More expensive than breast forms.
- Can be restrictive and less breathable.
- Neckline needs to be covered for a seamless look.
Choosing the Right Option for You
When deciding what option is right for you, it’s best to consider the purpose, your budget, and your personal preference.
Purpose
When choosing between breast forms and breast plates, it's essential to consider the primary purpose for their use. Will you be wearing them everyday for a MTF transformation? For empowering confidence by the pool or perhaps just on the occasion for a night of crossdressing or out on the scene. Breast forms are typically favoured for everyday wear, providing a natural enhancement that is comfortable for daily activities and casual settings. They are ideal for individuals who need a solution for work, social events, or routine errands. Breast plates, however, are often chosen for special occasions, performances, or cosplay, where a more dramatic and seamless appearance is desired.
Budget
Budget can also play a significant role in the decision-making process between breast forms and breast plates. Breast forms generally come in a wide range of prices, making them accessible to many people, from budget-friendly options to higher-end medical grade silicone models. Breast plates, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive due to their intricate design, amount of material, and shipping costs. Silicone breast plates, in particular, can be a substantial investment. However, for those requiring a highly realistic and cohesive appearance, the cost might be justified. It's essential to weigh the initial cost against the frequency and context of use to make an informed decision.
Personal Preference
Personal preference is a key (and deciding) factor in choosing between different types of breast forms and breast plates. Some individuals prioritise comfort and ease of use, making lightweight and versatile breast forms their preferred choice. Others may seek a more realistic and seamless appearance, which breast plates can provide with their full chest coverage and lifelike details. Additionally, considerations such as skin sensitivity, lifestyle, and specific aesthetic goals play a significant role in this decision. Ultimately, the choice between breast forms and breast plates should align with one's comfort, desired look, and how each option integrates into their daily life or special activities. To see what you prefer, having an in-store fitting is highly recommended.
Our Recommendations
Silicone Breast Forms
- For Everyday
By far our most popular product amongst crossdressers and transgender individuals, the Silicone Breast Form offers a realistic look and feel at a reasonable $130. Available from 400g - 1600g, this form offers versatility when it comes to finding a size to work seamlessly with your body shape. The triangular shape also provides coverage and projection, ideal for male born individuals, as opposed to teardrop breast forms which lack the width needed to fill a bra cup.
Mastectomy Breast Forms
- For Post Surgery
Designed and most suited for those who have had a mastectomy, these breast prosthesis - often around the $400 price point each - offer a longer durability and can be covered by a medicare rebate for those eligible. Due to the vast number of sizes and styles, a mastectomy fitting is required as it is not as simple as measuring the bust.
Silicone Swim Forms
- For Swimming
The perfect aquatic friend, the swim forms provide comfort and confidence to MTF folks who are looking for a chlorine proof solution by the pool or hitting the waves at the beach. Easily secured in bathers, this is the go-to for trans teens, and adults seeking gender euphoria in any environment.
Silicone Breast Plates
- For Showtime
For the occasional crossdresser, the on stage drag queen, and the cosplayer - Breast plates offer an authentic and convincing silhouette. Consider putting the plate on, taking it off, comfortability and how long you will be wearing it. While offering a more convincing bust, will the pros outweigh the cons for you?
Silicone Breast Forms
- For Everyday
By far our most popular product amongst crossdressers and transgender individuals, the Silicone Breast Form offers a realistic look and feel at a reasonable $130. Available from 400g - 1600g, this form offers versatility when it comes to finding a size to work seamlessly with your body shape. The triangular shape also provides coverage and projection, ideal for male born individuals, as opposed to teardrop breast forms which lack the width needed to fill a bra cup.
Mastectomy Breast Forms
- For Post Surgery
Designed and most suited for those who have had a mastectomy, these breast prosthesis - often around the $400 price point each - offer a longer durability and can be covered by a medicare rebate for those eligible. Due to the vast number of sizes and styles, a mastectomy fitting is required as it is not as simple as measuring the bust.
Silicone Swim Forms
- For Swimming
The perfect aquatic friend, the swim forms provide comfort and confidence to MTF folks who are looking for a chlorine proof solution by the pool or hitting the waves at the beach. Easily secured in bathers, this is the go-to for trans teens, and adults seeking gender euphoria in any environment.
Silicone Breast Plates
- For Showtime
For the occasional crossdresser, the on stage drag queen, and the cosplayer - Breast plates offer an authentic and convincing silhouette. Consider putting the plate on, taking it off, comfortability and how long you will be wearing it. While offering a more convincing bust, will the pros outweigh the cons for you?
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of your fake breasts is easy (and essential!) to maintaining hygiene and ensuring longevity of your purchase, especially since they can be a significant investment.
To summarise our breast form care guide, we suggest:
- A clean water wipe each night to remove any dirt, sweat and oils which will degrade the silicone.
- A gentle soap wash for a deeper clean.
- And finally pat dry and store away from the elements.
Sizing & Fittings
Proper sizing and fittings are crucial when selecting breast forms or breast plates to ensure the best fit and most natural appearance. The right size not only enhances comfort but also contributes to a seamless and realistic look. At our Melbourne store, we offer free inclusive fittings where you can try on both breast forms and breast plates in various sizes. This personalised experience allows you to find the perfect match for your body type and aesthetic preferences. Additionally, you can explore our extensive range of bras and gender-affirming underwear designed to complement your new forms or plates, ensuring that you leave with a complete and satisfying solution. Our expert staff is on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring that you feel confident and comfortable with your choice.
Wrapping up
Breast forms are your go-to for daily comfort and versatility, making you feel fabulous every day, whether at work or out with friends. On the flip side, breast plates are your ticket to a show-stopping, jaw-dropping look for special events, performances, or just a personal night at home feeling your best.
At our Melbourne store, we turn the fitting experience into a fun and fabulous event! Come in and try on different sizes and styles of breast forms and breast plates until you find your perfect match. Plus, you'll get to explore our stunning collection of lingerie that will make you feel like a million bucks. Our staff is here to guide you, offer tips, and ensure you leave feeling confident, comfortable, and ready to take on the world. So why wait? Visit us today and let's make magic happen together!