Q: How long after surgery must you wait before receiving a prosthesis?
A: Before pursuing a prosthetic limb, it is recommended that patients wait 3-6 months to ensure complete healing, and elimination of swelling prior to taking impressions. The authorization process can be started one month before impressions are taken.
Q: How long does it take to create a LIVINGSKIN prosthesis?
A: Fabrication of each custom silicone prosthesis is very labour-intensive. Manufacturing for each LIVINGSKIN prostheses take approximately 8-16 weeks to create. i-LIMB high definition covers are pre-fabricated and available upon request.
Q: How do the prostheses stay on?
A: Most LIVINGSKIN finger, hand, and foot prostheses are suspended by suction. When suction suspension is not possible, a combination of other methods is used.
Q: Do I need to use the donning lubricant each time I use the prosthesis?
A: Absolutely. For fingers, hands, toes and feet, not only does the water-based lubricant aid in providing suction for suspension, it also eliminates pulling and stretching of the silicone, avoiding tearing. Prostheses such as maxillofacial, and above and below elbow devices, do not require the use of a lubricant.
Q: Can the prostheses be worn all the time?
A: LIVINGSKIN users do not wear their prostheses when bathing, sleeping, or during activities that will be more strenuous on the silicone prosthesis. This includes activities such as guitar playing, sports, construction and auto maintenance. It is important to avoid oil-based products. Many hair and body products contain oils and should only be applied when not wearing the prosthesis.
Q: Is it just a cosmetic prosthesis?
A: 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.
Q: Do the fingers move?
A: This depends on the level of restoration. For example, if a finger prosthesis is made to replace just the tip of a finger or fingers, they can easily move and perform tasks. If the fingers are missing completely, then movement is limited. In some cases, an internal armature is inserted that can be bent into a desired position. With a body powered or myoelectric prosthesis, such as the i-LIMB, the LIVINGSKIN covering can move along with the prosthetic hand.
Q: Can the colour be changed or modified?
A: Once painted, the colour of the prosthesis can be darkened, using SeasonGuard the proprietary pigmentizer, which fades over time, as would a normal “tan”. Customers are advised to have their prosthesis painted when they are not tanned. The colour cannot be made lighter.
Q: Can fingernails be shaped and painted?
A: Depending on which LIVINGSKIN product you select, it may be possible to shape and paint your nails. You must use a NON-ACETONE nail polish remover.
Q: Can hair be incorporated into the prosthesis?
A: Yes, people with significant body hair can request DermaHair. Our custom matched, synthetic, non-removable hair can be incorporated into their prosthesis. The DermaHair is embedded within the top layer of the LIVINGSKIN, therefore it cannot fall out or fade away. This feature must be specified prior to the manufacturing process.
Q: Will the prosthesis stain?
A: The silicone used to make a LIVINGSKIN prosthesis 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.
Q: How long does a LIVINGSKIN prosthesis last?
A: The life expectancy of a LIVINGSKIN prosthesis depends on how it is used and maintained. With proper care and normal use, the average lifespan is 2 to 4 years.
Q: Is there a warranty?
A: Yes, each LIVINGSKIN prosthesis is covered by a 1-year repair or replacement warranty when proper and adequate care is given to the prosthesis. A 2-year repair and replacement warranty applies when a duplicate prosthetic device is provided at the same time, and the devices are worn alternately to avoid excessive wear. All higher-level prostheses such as below elbow, above elbow and below knee, are covered by a 1-year warranty.
Q: What should I do if I tear or damage my prosthesis?
A: Never attempt to glue or repair the prosthesis yourself. Please call your local practitioner before sending the prosthesis back for repair.
Q: Are LIVINGSKIN prostheses paid for by insurance?
A: Yes, many insurance companies and Workers Compensation Boards pay for LIVINGSKIN prostheses. Touch Bionics administrative staff can help with these issues.
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