Reimagining post-mastectomy care with 3D scanning technology

During my visit to FemTech Week in Tokyo from October 17 to 19, 2024, I was struck by the variety of products focusing on feminine care, beauty, health, and wellness. However, the one innovation that stood out the most was the 3D-constructed removable artificial breasts. Women who have had a total or partial mastectomy can custom-order silicone breasts that fit their bodies that look and feel real for approximately $2000.

A non-surgical solution for breast reconstruction

Surgical breast reconstruction typically involves transplanting fat from the patient’s body or implanting silicone to replace the removed tissues. Now, there is a third option for women who may not be suited for either of these operations: removable artificial breasts that can be attached directly to the chest.

Onestep is one of few places in Japan that specialize in breast prostheses. It manufactures artificial breasts called RealLeaf, made of silicone that has been tested and certified for safety. RealLeaf adheres firmly to the skin without adhesives. Their thin and translucent edges blend well with the skin color and prevent water from getting in (though they advise and offer adding specially made adhesives for prolonged water exposure, i.e., in pools and hot springs).

Advanced 3D scanning technology for custom prostheses

The journey to create a custom-made artificial breast starts with a visit to one of their nationwide salons for a free consultation. Pink Ribbon advisors, representing an organization that promotes breast cancer awareness and support for affected individuals, take measurements with a 3D scanner, which takes only 10 minutes. The data is sent to their prostheses workshop in Osaka on the same day, where prosthesis experts review the shape of breasts from different angles, assess skin color, and consider overall body balance. They formulate artificial breasts based on these detailed assessments, paint them with a color mix for each customer, and coat them with additional silicone to prevent color fading. They also check the fit with the customer twice before finalizing the products. The process takes about four to six months.

Advances in appearance care

There are various types of removable artificial breasts in the market. Ready-made products can start from a few hundred dollars, and worn primarily underneath a bra. Custom-made artificial breasts can be expensive, up to $7,000, not covered by insurance.

RealLeaf’s fully custom-made artificial breasts for a fraction of the price. They are able to achieve it because they have combined breast prostheses with their original specialty of making medical wigs. The company started as a medical wig store in 2008, offering dedicated care for cancer survivors through private salons nationwide. They can now provide women with one-stop “appearance care” to regain their looks, offering wigs, artificial breasts, and loungewear made of natural fibers, such as organic cotton and silk.

Japan may become a medical trip destination for women seeking cosmetic regeneration. Onestep also seeks international partners to extend this unique concept and services.