Relevant answers to your frequent questions...

Prosthesis: Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Prosthesis Expensive?

Past patients from many different states, and from foreign countries, will attest to the fact that, for almost every person, fine prosthetic work is indeed a priceless blessing! My fees are standard and reasonable for the quality, craftsmanship, and amount of time invested in the designing of this caliber of prosthesis.

What is a Prosthesis?

A prosthesis is an externally applied device designed to replace a missing part of the body or to make a part of the body work better. Diseased or missing eyes, arms, hands, and legs are commonly replaced by prosthetic devices. Generally, most people view a prosthesis as an artificial limb.
The type of prosthesis (plural is prostheses) that we manufacture is an artificial limb that replaces a missing extremity: leg, foot, toes, arm, hand or fingers. The prosthesis is comprised of a socket and components. The socket fits over the remaining portion of the limb or body (see SOCKET DESIGN for more information) The components are the mechanical or electrical parts that attach to the socket (see COMPONENTS for more information). A prosthesis can be functional, cosmetic, or both.
An artificial device used to replace any missing body part such as a limb, tooth, or an eye. For an amputee, function can be greatly enhanced with a prosthesis that is custom made and fitted by certified specialists and technicians. Each prosthesis is specifically tailored to an individual’s specific needs.

What is a breast prosthesis?

breast prosthesis or breast form is a silicone breast form that sits in a pocket of a mastectomy bra. Some prosthetics are made of foam or fiberfill.
A prosthesis is a simple alternative to reconstructive surgery if you have had a mastectomy. Fitted for your bras, bathing suits and other forming undergarments, a prosthesis will be fitted in size to match your other breast. Ask your surgeon, a social worker at the hospital or other survivors you know to refer you to a prosthesis fitter (who will be able to sew pockets into your favorite undergarments for the prosthesis). ...
breast prosthesis or breast form is an artificial breast that is used after a surgery in which the breast has been removed or altered. A breast form may be worn to simulate the natural breast and body shape. Depending on the type of surgery, either full breasts or partial breasts can be purchased to balance the appearance. Breast prostheses usually come in silicone, foam, or fiberfill and are worn inside the bra or are attached to the body with a special adhesive.
A breast prosthesis or breast form is an artificial breast that is used after a surgery when the breast has been altered or removed. The breast form can be worn to simulate the natural breast and body shape. They come in a variety of materials (usually silicone, foam or fiberfill) and they can be worn inside a bra or attached to the body, depending on which type you choose. A silicone breast prosthesis is weighted and simulates the natural breast, and therefore it helps the human body to be symmetrical again. ...

Is it just a cosmetic prosthesis?

Absolutely not. The level of function varies with each prosthesis depending upon the type of device. All Livingskin prostheses can perform non-manipulative activities, such as supporting, stabilizing, pushing and pulling. Finger prostheses can be used for activities such as typing and playinSg the piano.
Absolutely not. The level of function varies with each prosthesis depending upon the type of device. All Livingskin prostheses can perform non-manipulative activities, such as supporting, stabilizing, pushing and pulling. Finger prostheses can be used for activities such as typing and playing the piano.

Will the prosthesis stain?

The silicone used to make Livingskin prostheses is virtually stain proof. However, since there are many new chemicals and products that have not been tested, caution must be exercised when coming into contact with these materials. Some products to avoid are blue Woolite, carbon paper, unwashed jeans and certain leather tanning products.

What Is A Hair Prosthesis?

A selection of custom full wigs are available, which will be cut and fitted for you. You will also receive “How To” classes for caring afterwards. For Your Information This FAQ has given you some basic information. We recommend coming in for a FREE consultation at which time we will do a scalp evaluation. This will help us to better understand your personal hair loss needs. ...

What is a flush fittingshell prosthesis?

Phthisis bulbi, (shrinking of the eye) is a condition where the eye becomes unsightly, but has not deteriorated to a condition that requires enucleation. Often the flush-fitting scleral shell is used to cover this type of defect. The most important consideration for most patients, is to be able to wear the shell while in public and during normal waking hours. In addition to the improved appearance and increased comfort, the flush fitting shell provides a more natural surface for normal lacrimal tear function.

What is the prosthesis made of?

Silicone gel. This will move and feel very much like a natural tissue would. The silicone can not be absorbed through the skin. When properly fit it is undetectable.
The implant for a total knee replacement is made of a combination of metal and plastic. The metal parts are generally composed of cobalt chrome, and the plastic is made of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene.

How long will the prosthesis last?

Depending on your age, activity level and growth, the prosthesis can last anywhere from several months to several years. In the early stages after limb loss, many changes occur in the residual limb that can lead to shrinking of the limb. This may require socket changes, the addition of liners, or even a different device. Later on, increased activity level and desire for additional function can necessitate a change in the prosthesis or its parts. ...
A silicone prosthesis lasts three years on average. Because silicone is a synthetic material, it will eventually deteriorate. Tearing, color change, or yellowing indicate that a repair or replacement of your prosthesis is necessary. In most cases, a replacement can be made from your original mold.

How does the prosthesis stay on?

A prosthesis can be designed several ways according to individual needs. One is with a strap suspension; another uses a suction socket that requires no straps. For below-knee amputees, a suspension sleeve can fit over the prosthesis and knee. 5.

What make of prosthesis is used?

The surgeon prefers Zimmer orthopaedics prosthesis. He considers Zimmer to be the leading and most experienced manufacturer of prosthesis, its advanced technical capacity means that it produces some of the best and most durable prosthesis on the market today. At DHI's request the hospital are asked to fit not only the best product available, and one that has a number of years succesful track record.
We prefer to fit Zimmer orthopaedics prosthesis. Zimmer is the largest and most experienced manufacturer of prosthesis, its advanced technical capacity means that it produces some of the best and most durable prosthesis on the market today. We try to always fit not only the best product available but also one that has been tried and tested for a number of years.
We prefer to fit Zimmer orthopaedics prosthesis - www.zimmer.com Zimmer is the largest and most experienced manufacturer of prosthesis and its advanced technical capacity means that it produces some of the best and most durable prosthesis on the market today. We try to always fit not only the best product available but also one that has been tried and tested for a number of years.
We prefer to fit Zimmer orthopaedics prosthesis. we consider Zimmer to be the leading and most experienced manufacturer of prosthesis, its advanced technical capacity means that it produces some of the best and most durable prosthesis on the market today. We try to always fit not only the best product available but also one that has been tried and tested for a number of years.

How is the prosthesis held on?

This is referred to as “suspension”. Although there are several alternatives, our specialty is suction suspension, which means that an air seal is created between the skin and the prosthesis. Usually a flexible skin-friendly gel sleeve is required to seal the air gap between the skin and the prosthesis. A one-way air valve is installed in the socket to release excessive air from within the socket, thereby producing a very comfortable and secure feeling connection to the prosthesis. ...

How is the prosthesis made?

A prosthesis is usually custom made for each patient. The fabrication of a prosthesis first begins with a mold of your residual limb. This is done with either plaster, fiberglass, or in some cases a computer generated image. A prosthetic socket is then fabricated and attached to a prosthetic foot with hardware. The prosthetic socket is usually made by hand, and the remaining prosthesis is also usually assembled by hand.

How will my prosthesis stay on?

There are numerous ways of suspending your prosthesis. This can include straps, suction or pin connections. Your Prosthetist will discuss the most appropriate type of suspension with you.
There are many different suspension methods – you should discuss the best for your needs with your prosthetist. Some limbs are suspended using suction, some using vacuum-assisted socket design, some using pin liners, etc. Please visit SOCKET DESIGN for more information.

What is a prosthesis used for?

In general, prosthetic devices are used to replace an amputee’s missing limb so that they may perform regular daily tasks more easily, helping them gain more independence and confidence as they carry on everyday life. The availability of modern technology has made it possible for prosthetic devices to perform almost any task - from relatively simple artificial teeth used for dental implants to specially designed and manufactured artificial limbs for sports such as running/sprinting.

What is a Custom Made Prosthesis?

Custom: (tailor-made) preparing according to need Prosthesis: artificial replacement of a part of the body to remedy a deficiency Implant : a prosthesis placed permanently in tissue / body Custom made prostheses are implants individually manufactured for each patient to give an accurate fit. The implant is fabricated to fit the patient rather than crafting the patient to fit the implant. ...

Is a prosthesis covered by insurance?

Many health insurance plans will cover all or most of the cost of a prosthesis. The functional aspects of the prosthesis are important to stress, and pre-authorization is usually required.

Does wearing a prosthesis hurt?

You will feel pressure from your prosthetic socket around your limb but it shouldn’t hurt. If anything does hurt, let us know right away so the fit and mechanics can be evaluated as soon as possible.
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