NIMISHA SURESH
Dr. Gayatri Menon
nimisha_s@nid.edu
Breast cancer and mastectomy often leave women with profound physical and psychological challenges, yet affordable, culturally sensitive prostheses are scarce in India. This project, "Redesigning Breast Prosthetic Services," addresses these gaps through user-centered interventions that integrate material innovation and digital services. Western models were identified as effective but financially inaccessible. Fieldwork revealed stigma and inadequate support systems for survivors. The project produced three core solutions: "Aasra," a redesigned prosthesis prioritized for breathability and comfort in the Indian context; a partner-support toolkit to foster empathy and shared responsibility; and "Sakhi," a digital service providing personalized recommendations and peer support. Together, these interventions move beyond product design to propose a layered ecosystem of care addressing functional and emotional needs. Ultimately, the project underscores the potential of design-led healthcare to restore dignity and resilience. By reimagining prostheses as enablers of empowerment, the work offers a structured support system for women navigating life after mastectomy.