Face prosthetics offer hope and functionality if you're going through a congenital condition, facial surgery, or trauma. Whether it’s replacing an eye, nose, or ear, this artificial device is crafted with precision and care to deliver lifelike results.

If you’re curious about how these devices are made, their benefits, or how to care for them, this guide will provide all the essential details.

What Are Facial Prosthetics?

Facial prosthetics are custom-made devices that replace or restore missing or damaged parts of your face, such as the eyes, ears, or nose.

Made from medical-grade silicone rubber, they are crafted carefully to match your unique fit and appearance.

While reconstructive surgery is often the most natural way to restore appearance and function, it may not always be feasible or preferred.

In such cases, a facial prosthesis or prosthetic rehabilitation offers an effective alternative for rehabilitation.

The creation of these prostheses is a blend of art and science, requiring the expertise of an anaplastologist (who specializes in face and body) and a maxillofacial prosthodontist (who specializes in mouth and teeth).

These specialists, trained in anatomy, material sciences, and artistic techniques, ensure lifelike and functional results.

The process is simple, painless, and typically completed over several office visits. These prosthetics improve appearance, function, and overall quality of life, often helping individuals affected by congenital conditions, trauma, or surgery.

Types of Facial Prostheses

Facial prosthetics come in different forms, each designed to address specific needs:

• Ocular Prosthesis or Orbital Prosthesis (Eyes) – Often called a prosthetic eye that replaces a missing eyeball. Made from durable acrylic or silicone, it is custom-designed to fit the eye socket but doesn't recover vision.
• Nasal Prosthesis (Nose) – It is a removable device designed to restore the nose and surrounding skin and bone when surgical reconstruction isn’t an option, often after cancer treatment. It helps protect delicate tissue and humidify the nasal cavity, mimicking the role of a natural nose.
• Auricular Prosthesis (Ears) – An ear prosthesis is a removable device designed to restore part or all of a missing ear. It was attached through a medical adhesive or craniofacial implant, helping secure glasses but doesn't enhance hearing.
• Other Facial Prosthesis – These include devices for the cheeks, chin, or lips. A facial prosthesis can sometimes combine multiple types, such as the eye, nose, and cheek.

Each type of facial prosthesis is custom-made to suit you, ensuring it blends seamlessly with your natural appearance.

How Are Facial Prosthetics Made?

Facial prostheses are custom-made for each individual, requiring the expertise of specialists such as maxillofacial prosthetists, prosthodontists, anaplastologists, or ocularists.

The process includes the following steps.

• Consultation and Assessment – A specialist will review your condition and create a personalized prosthetic treatment plan based on your unique needs, goals, and circumstances. This process involves collaboration with your medical team and open communication to ensure the best outcome.
• Impression and Model Creation – A mold of your face is taken to capture its unique shape and contours. Plaster is then poured into this mold, creating a detailed model as the foundation for designing your prosthesis.
• Sculpting and Prototyping: A wax prototype is sculpted to finalize the size, shape, and position of the prosthesis. Photos of your appearance before surgery or an accident may be used as references to ensure accuracy.
• Color Matching and Fabrication: Your skin color is matched carefully to ensure the prosthesis blends naturally with your complexion.
• Retention Methods: The prosthesis can be secured with special adhesives or attachments connected to titanium implants or screws placed in the bone. Retention methods are selected based on your needs, comfort, and preferences.
• Final Fitting: Once the prosthesis is ready, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to wear, remove, and care for it.

The time and number of appointments needed to create your face prosthesis will depend on the area being restored and the level of complexity or detail required.

How to Care for Your Facial Prosthesis

Proper care of your facial prosthesis can prolong its functional life and ensure it performs optimally. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain its appearance and prevent infections.

By following these cleaning guidelines, you can keep your facial prosthesis in good condition and ensure its longevity.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Your Facial Prosthesis

Follow these steps to clean and maintain your facial prosthesis:

• Clean Your Skin Daily: Use water and mild soap to clean the skin gently.
• Clean Your Prosthesis Daily: Use water mild soap, and a soft brush to clean the prosthesis gently.
• Care for Titanium Implants (If Applicable): Gently brush around the implants with a soft brush to keep them clean and maintain healthy skin.
• Perform Cleaning at Bedtime: Make cleaning a part of your nightly routine to ensure the prosthesis stays in good condition and fits well.
• Remove the Prosthesis for Sleep: Take off the prosthesis at night to allow your skin to rest.
• Inspect the Skin Regularly: Check your skin daily for redness, irritation, or signs of infection to catch potential issues early.

Proper prosthetic care keep it in excellent condition and ensure your skin stays healthy and comfortable.

However, wear and tear may signal it’s time to replace your prosthesis.

When to Replace Your Facial Prosthesis

Facial prostheses naturally degrade over time, gradually losing their aesthetic appeal.

Exposure to the following factors can cause discoloration, often leading to a yellowish tint:

• Pollution
• Body oils
• Ultraviolet light

The lifespan of a prosthesis depends on several factors, including its type, the material used, attachment method, care routine, and frequency of use.

On average, prostheses last between 1 to 3 years, although some may last longer with proper care.

Initial prostheses provided after surgery may have a shorter lifespan due to ongoing tissue healing and changes within the first year. However, well-maintained replacements can last much longer and provide a better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a maxillofacial prosthodontist do?

A maxillofacial prosthetist specializes in rehabilitating patients with defects or disabilities caused by disease, trauma, or congenital conditions.

They create prostheses to replace missing areas of bone or tissue, restoring essential oral functions such as chewing and speech.

In some cases, prostheses are designed for cosmetic or psychological purposes, helping to improve appearance and support emotional well-being.

Are face prosthetics permanent?

No, facial prosthetics are not permanent as they are not permanently attached to the patient. They may be retained using medical-grade adhesives or bone-anchored implants.

Why would someone need a prosthetic face?

Someone may need a prosthetic face due to a congenital condition, such as facial cleft, hemifacial microsomia, or an acquired condition resulting from facial injury or surgery.