Design researchers at Cardiff Metropolitan’s International Centre for Design and Research (PDR) have worked with NHS clinicians to develop bespoke prosthetic breasts for women who have undergone a mastectomy.
The research project, which is informing the development of more realistic and better-fitting breast prostheses, has developed from a partnership of more than 20 years, which has seen specialists from PDR work closely with medical professionals to offer a wide range of cutting-edge solutions to meet patient needs.
The research-led technique developed through this particular project produces breast patterns and tools, which in turn produce a silicon breast prosthesis bespoke to each patient, through the use of advanced digital design and manufacturing processes.
The project aims to reduce the psychological impact of post-surgical rehabilitation and therefore the emotional impact of breast cancer on patients and their families.