Knitted Knockers are soft, lightweight breast prostheses designed as a comfortable alternative to traditional silicone forms. Made from approved yarns like cotton and filled with PolyFiberFil, they are gentle on sensitive skin or scar tissue following a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Unlike heavier silicone prosthetics, which often require specialized pocketed bras, these knitted forms can be worn in most regular bras, offering flexibility and breathability. This guide provides practical steps on how to select, wear, and maintain your Knitted Knockers for optimal comfort and a natural profile.
Matching Your Knocker to Your Body and Bra
Selecting the correct size begins with knowing your pre-surgery bra cup size, as Knitted Knockers are generally sized from A through DD cups to correspond with standard bra sizing. The construction features a slightly concave back, shaped to fit gently against the chest wall without irritating sensitive surgical sites. If you have had a lumpectomy or are undergoing tissue expansion, you can request a full-sized knocker and adjust the internal filling to match the remaining volume of your natural breast.
Because the prosthesis is lightweight, a snug, full-coverage bra is recommended to hold the form securely and prevent shifting. While they can be worn in any regular bra, a style with higher coverage or a mastectomy-specific bra will minimize movement and provide the best fit. The interior stuffing is meant to be customized to achieve perfect symmetry.
Step-by-Step Placement and Adjustment
Before placing the knocker, check the filling, which is accessible through a small opening, often a buttonhole or drawstring, located on the back or edge of the form. The knocker is usually overstuffed when received, allowing you to remove small amounts of PolyFiberFil until the size matches your remaining breast or desired volume. For minor asymmetries, such as those following a lumpectomy, you can shift the stuffing within the form to add volume precisely where it is needed, for example, near the bottom or side.
Once the knocker is sized, slide it directly into the bra cup, ensuring the concave side rests flat against your body. Gently rotate the knocker until the knit pattern lines up smoothly and the form achieves a natural, rounded appearance under clothing. Slippage is a common concern, especially with lower-coverage bras, but this can be addressed with simple measures.
To secure the form for all-day wear and prevent it from riding up, consider these anchoring methods:
- Use a small safety pin attached to the back of the knocker and gently pinned to the inside of the bra cup.
- Apply a small square of adhesive Velcro to temporarily anchor the prosthesis to the bra fabric.
- Use a few loose stitches to temporarily anchor the prosthesis to the bra fabric, allowing for easy removal when washing is needed.
- Place a small, clean weight, such as a coin or drapery weight, inside the opening before cinching it closed to add a slight counterbalance.
Cleaning and Storing Your Knitted Knockers
Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain hygiene and the integrity of the yarn fibers. The preferred method for washing the knitted shell is by hand in warm water using a mild soap or gentle detergent. If machine washing is necessary, place the knocker inside a lingerie bag or pillowcase and use the gentle cycle to protect the delicate stitches from snagging or excessive agitation.
Before washing, you may remove the inner PolyFiberFil stuffing through the back opening, which helps the knitted shell dry more quickly. Never use bleach or fabric softener, and avoid the high heat of a tumble dryer, as this can damage the yarn and cause the form to shrink or distort. After washing, gently reshape the knocker and lay it flat on a clean surface or hang it to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight.
When not in use, store the Knitted Knocker in a cool, dark, and dry place to prevent the growth of mold or mildew. To deter pests, such as moths, place the form in a breathable cotton bag along with natural repellents like cedar blocks or a lavender sachet. Avoid storing the knocker in a compressed state to ensure the poly-fiber retains its loft and shape for the next wear.