DAILY CARE OF YOUR SILICONE PROSTHESIS
This office purchases adhesives from Factor II, Inc. @ 1-800-332-8688 or @ www.factor2.com. To avoid any middle-man fees, you can order direct from them.
When using adhesives, we recommend that the adhesive that “touches” the prosthesis be water-based. Sometimes, this is the only adhesive needed, but when a stronger adhesive is needed, an additional silicone-based adhesive can be layered on top of the water-based adhesive.
Water-Based Adhesives: DO NOT FREEZE! These adhesives are applied one thin layer at a time, usually with a cotton swab, and allowed to dry. They go on white and dry clear. More than one layer can be applied.
Pros Aide #B-204 – very strong, but is the least expensive because it has the least amount of “product” in the mix – the rest is water. Purchase this when using in combination with a silicone adhesive, or when a light adhesion is needed. (The label says “latex” but this is NOT the same latex associated with allergies.)
Daro Hydro Bond #B-200-30 – the strongest of the water-based adhesives. May be used by itself if not used in a “humid” environment (like the nose).
Silicone Adhesives: These adhesives are applied with a brush, one thin layer at a time, and allowed to dry. They go on clear, and stay clear. More than one layer can be applied.
Secure #B-400 Thin 1 oz
Adhere #B-520 1 oz
Either one of these adhesives can be used when layering adhesives on the prosthesis. First apply the water-based adhesive. When dry, apply the silicone based adhesive. When cleaning the prosthesis, soak in a cup of hot tap water for a couple of minutes. This will loosen the water-based adhesive, and then all the adhesive will just roll off similar to rubber cement. If you only use the silicone based adhesive, you will very likely rip the edges of your prosthesis. Practice positioning your prosthesis without any (or very little) adhesive.
When removing the prosthesis, clean only what is dirty and leave the remaining layer. Only remove all the adhesive layers after 2-4 days of accumulation. It will then be easier to remove. To apply new adhesive repeat the gluing process.
To clean the rest of the prosthesis, use gentle soap and water and a Q-tip.
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For implant-retained prostheses, sometimes a small amount of adhesive is necessary, and for that, this office recommends Pros Aide. When just a light sticky substance is needed – for movement on the skin, but not for security of adhesion – we recommend a number of products – just ask us!
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As with all prostheses, keep away from animals, avoid smoking, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and avoid solvents. Remove at night, and keep skin clean. Your prosthesis is made of a durable medical grade silicone, but has thin edges which may tear if not handled gently. The coloring process makes the prosthesis susceptible to damage during the first 72 hours. During this initial period, you must be especially careful in handling the prosthesis, and avoid using cosmetics on the prosthesis. Swimming in oceans, lakes, and rivers is not recommended. And, do NOT use superglue for quick fixes.
Initially, you should wear the prosthesis daily, unless problems arise. If yours is an adhesive-retained prosthesis, practice positioning the prosthesis without adhesive before application. Be sure your skin is clean and oil-free. Some prostheses are tricky to position, and it may take some practice. Do not get discouraged if it takes a couple of weeks before you are able to apply the prosthesis with some ease. If you have sore spots, discontinue wearing the prosthesis and call this office. A facial prosthesis is a passive device, which should not cause soreness or pressure spots.