Facial prosthetic

Facial prosthetics are artificial devices used to replace a part of the face that has been lost due to injury, disease, or congenital conditions. They are designed to restore the appearance and function of the missing facial feature, improving the quality of life for the individual.

History

The use of prosthetics dates back to ancient times, with the earliest known example being a prosthetic toe found on an Egyptian mummy. However, the use of facial prosthetics specifically is a relatively recent development, with significant advancements made in the 20th century.

Types of Facial Prosthetics

There are several types of facial prosthetics, each designed to replace a specific part of the face:

• Nasal Prosthetics: These are used to replace the nose, often after surgery for skin cancer.
• Orbital Prosthetics: These replace the eye and surrounding tissues, usually after surgery for ocular tumors.
• Auricular Prosthetics: These replace the ear, often after trauma or surgery for skin cancer.
• Mandibular Prosthetics: These replace parts of the lower jaw, often after surgery for oral cancer.

Materials and Construction

Facial prosthetics are typically made from medical-grade silicone, which is colored to match the individual's skin tone. The process of creating a facial prosthetic involves several steps, including taking an impression of the face, sculpting a model, casting the prosthetic, and painting it to match the individual's skin tone.

Attachment Methods

Facial prosthetics can be attached in several ways:

• Adhesive: A medical-grade adhesive is used to attach the prosthetic to the skin.
• Implants: Titanium implants can be surgically placed in the bone, and the prosthetic can be attached to these implants.
• Glasses: Some prosthetics, such as orbital prosthetics, can be attached to a pair of glasses.

Care and Maintenance

Facial prosthetics require regular care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and appearance. This includes daily cleaning, regular check-ups with the prosthetist, and replacement as necessary.

See Also

• Prosthetics
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Plastic Surgery

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