Frequently Asked Questions

General Prosthesis Questions

Can I sleep with my prosthesis on?

Generally no; you would treat your prosthesis like a pair of glasses, and take it off at night, although, it would be fine to take a brief nap with your prosthesis on.
What are the benefits of wearing a nasal (nose) prosthesis?

The nasal prosthesis should improve your breathing by keeping dust and dirt out of the nasal cavity and by warming the air you breathe. It will also allow you to wear a pair of glasses.
With an auricular (ear) prosthesis, can I have a piercing?

Yes, but it should be planned in the design stage of making the prosthesis.
With a finger prosthesis, can I wear nail polish?

Yes, as long as you always use a non-acetone polish remover. Acetone will break down the acrylic finger nail.
How durable is my prosthesis?

The average lifespan of a prosthesis is between 1 and 5 years. For a finger prosthesis the lifespan will depend on what you are using it for, how often you wear it, and how well you take care of it. It may be beneficial to have two prostheses so that you can switch back and forth. This will extend the life of both prostheses.
Where do I store my prosthesis?

The best place to store your prosthesis is in the box provided or in another solid container of your choosing. The container should be kept in a drawer or a dark place with limited exposure to ultraviolet light. The prosthesis should be kept away from pets, children and sharp objects. The prosthesis should also be thoroughly cleaned and dried before storing.
Can I have a tattoo on my prosthesis?

Yes, a custom tattoo can be incorporated into your prosthesis. A tattoo must be planned in the design stage of making your prosthesis. Adding a tattoo of your choice makes a prosthesis truly your own.
Will my prosthesis change over time?

Your prosthesis will be made of 100% silicone which is a very stable material that will not shrink or change form. However, if your prosthesis is exposed to ultra violet sunlight for a long period of time it may cause changes in color.
How much will my prosthesis cost?

The cost of your prosthesis will vary according to the type of prosthesis you need. Please contact us for more information.
What types of prostheses does Lifeart offer?

Lifeart offers a variety of prosthetics mostly related to the upper extremities. This includes breasts, nipples, fingers, ears, noses, hands and arms. We also offer prostheses such as buttocks, partial feet, and calves of the leg. If you are not sure about a particular type of prosthesis, please contact us.
How long will it take to get used to my prosthesis?

Getting used to having a prosthesis will be different for everyone. For some it may feel natural right away and for others it may take some time. For example, a finger prosthesis may feel tight at first until your body becomes accustomed to it.
How do I find out if I am covered?

It is important that you find out who will pay for prosthetic provision before starting the procedure. We can help you with this process and can provide you with an estimate for your insurance provider.
Should I bring someone with me for emotional support to my first consultation?

You are most welcome to bring your partner, friend or a family member.
How far ahead should I book for an appointment?

It is best to book an appointment at least 3 to 6 months ahead of time, especially if you need your prosthesis for a special occasion. We will do our best to make a suitable appointment for you.
If I was right handed and I lose most of my hand, will I have to relearn to do things with my left hand?

Yes, you will have to adapt to using your other hand, although the prosthesis will help to improve the function of the lost hand. Physiotherapy or Occupational therapy can help you to use your prosthesis to its full potential.
Will I need to find different footwear if I lose one or more toes?

If you lose your great toe or multiple toes it can cause problems because the structure of your foot changes. Your footwear may need to be changed or adapted to work with the new physiology of your foot. A prosthesis can be a spacer, will give protection and will fill any gaps between the toes. A prosthesis will also make your foot look more natural in sandals.
Do I have to worry about any allergies?

The prosthesis is made from high-grade silicone and is usually not a source of allergic reactions, but a pre-test for allergies is done when medical adhesive or sticky backing is required. There are many different kinds of adhesive available and we are careful to choose the most appropriate one for you.

Breast Dressed Prosthesis Questions

Can I wear a regular bra?

Yes. You do not need pockets so you can wear any type of well fitting bra. However, if you are more comfortable using a bra with a pocket, that is fine.
Can I interchange bras?

Yes, but different bra styles should be discussed when your breast prosthesis is being designed.
Can I wear my favourite clothes?

In most cases, yes. If you have a piece of clothing that you feel will be challenging, this can be discussed during the design stage. Often, a small alteration will do the trick.
How easy is it to clean?

Very easy. We provide you with a care instruction sheet. Cleaning requires rubbing a small amount of mild liquid soap onto your prosthesis and rinsing it off with water. Pat dry.
Why would I want to have pre-Surgery casting?

Our pre-Surgery service allows a woman to have her breast cast for a prosthesis before surgery. The cast of your original breast (prior to the mastectomy) can quite often give us the best representation for your prosthesis, providing there are no significant changes to your other breast size or shape. Having the cast done prior to surgery allows us to provide a soft post-operative temporary prosthesis very quickly. A full custom prosthesis can be made once treatment is done and your body has stabilized. It can also be an interesting keepsake for after surgery, as well as being an emotional comfort at a time of high stress.

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