- It is important to have realistic expectations about your prosthesis. If your question or concern is not addressed below, feel free to contact us.
- How will my prosthesis stay on?
- Will the color match my skin perfectly?
- How long will my prosthesis last?
- Is this process painful?
- When can I wear my prosthesis?
- How long will it take to make my prosthesis?
- Are these prostheses functional or aesthetic?
- How will my prosthesis stay on?
- Our silicone prostheses are all worn externally and can be removed and replaced by the patient at any time. There are several ways to keep a prosthesis attached to the skin. One common method is to use a medical adhesive (a special glue) that is applied to the back of the prosthesis each time the prosthesis is placed on the skin. Other methods include the use of double-sided tape or magnets. Some prostheses (especially fingers and hand prostheses) usually stay on by themselves due to suction, and some prostheses can be retained by designing the prosthesis to temporarily "lock" into the patient’s own anatomy. Another method called osseointegration works by way of a special metal structure which is connected to permanent screws placed in the bone during one or two small surgical procedures. The removable prosthesis then attaches to this metallic structure with clips or magnets. Top
- Will the color match my skin perfectly?
- All of our prostheses are color-matched with the patient present. We can incorporate your unique skin textures and patterns into the prosthesis, however, it is important to remember that the prosthesis is made of silicone. Human skin changes color with temperature fluctuation and tans in the sun… silicone does not. It is also likely that your prosthesis will match your skin better in certain type of light than in others. Top
- How long will my prosthesis last?
- A prosthesis typically lasts about 2 years, but the lifespan of a prosthesis depends greatly on how much and in what situations it is used, and especially on how well it is cared for. Your prosthesis will look its best when you first receive it. Over time the pigments in the prosthesis will fade or change, and every prosthesis has to be remade eventually to restore the best color match. Certain factors like exposure to smoke or excessive sunlight will speed the decline of the coloration. Top
- Is this process painful?
- No. The entire process is conducted in a comfortable environment. No portion of the process should cause you pain or discomfort. Top
- When can I wear my prosthesis?
- Usually you can wear your prosthesis whenever and whereever you feel comfortable. Most patients remove their prosthesis at night to allow the skin underneath to breathe. Top
- How long will it take to make my prosthesis?
- Most prostheses can be made in 4-6 appointments. Depending on your availability and scheduling, the process can take 2 to 6 weeks. Top
- Are these prostheses functional or aesthetic?
- The primarly goal of a prosthesis is to camaflouge an anatomical difference so that you may go about your normal life without unwanted attention. Some prostheses also offer functional benefit by restoring natural anatomical form. For example, an auricular (ear) prosthesis will restore anatomical support for a pair of glasses. A nasal prosthesis may help protect the lining of your nose. A finger prosthesis may help you type or grasp and stabilize objects by restoring the length of the fingers and by passing the feeling of touch through the silicone to the nerves beneath the prosthesis (proprioception.) Top
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