I am going abroad for the first time since my mastectomy
Will I be questioned about my prosthesis when going through security scans?
I asked my bcn and she was less than helpful saying she’d never had this question before and take one of my clinic letters with me which don’t even mention my prosthesis anyway
Thanks Sue
1 Like
Hi, I had a prosthesis years ago and was never questioned. I now have reconstruction which was once prodded much to my disgust. However, this only happened once. I’m no expert and cannot say questions couldn’t be asked but as they are soft and non metalic I imagine they might not even show up. Could you have another talk to your care team?
1 Like
Hi Sue123,
I’ve flown several times with a variety of prosthetic. I’ve never been stopped.
If you are stopped its usually a random check, and just ask for a lady to do the pat down. Enjoy your travels xx
1 Like
I agree with everything you said i also have been abroad several times since hsving a prosthesis and have never been stopped and i was told to ask for a female officer if needed. Enjoy your holidays x
1 Like
@Sue123 - As the prosthetics aren’t metal
, there is no reason why it should flag up
My 15 year old daughter has metal rods in her leg due to past bone tumour treatment and she went to Germany last week with the school… it’s the first time she’s flown and she was anxious that her rods would set the machines off but they didn’t .
Arty1
I found this info online on Cancer Research’s site
Traveling with a breast prosthesis is generally safe and manageable. While airport security may detect it on body scanners, informing security staff beforehand or carrying a letter from your doctor can ease the process. The prosthesis itself won’t be harmed by the scanners or cabin pressure.
Here’s a more detailed look:
- Airport Security:
Airport body scanners will likely detect breast prostheses. You can discreetly inform security staff of your prosthesis before being scanned or carry a letter from your doctor confirming its presence.
- Comfort and Care:
While the prosthesis might be uncomfortable on its own, many recommend wearing it with a bra for support and comfort.
- Air Travel and Pressure:
The cabin pressure in an airplane won’t harm your prosthesis. If you have a lightweight silicone prosthesis, some small air bubbles might appear in it while in the luggage hold, but they will disappear after the plane lands.
- Discreet Handling:
You can discreetly pack your prosthesis in your carry-on luggage, and it’s considered a medical device, so liquids within it are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule.
I’d say don’t worry and have a lovely holiday x
Arty1
I’ve flown several times a year since my mastectomy, without recon - nothing, zilth, nada, rien - not even when I pinged the machine with my new hip or knee. Never had a funny look when a female security person has had to frisk me.
If you have a swim one and are hand luggage only just shove it in your cozzie just incase you are asked to open it and ask for a female to have a look through. That’s never happened to me as I am extra vigilant on carry on content if I’m carrying my swim one.
I don’t give 2 hoots about one being in my hold luggage.
Happy holidays.