FAQ's Cosmetic Silicone
What are silicone products for prosthetics?
Dorset Orthopaedic produces world-class, award-winning, life like silicone products for all upper and lower-limb prosthetic devices. Our leading prosthetic clinic in the UK and worldwide partners fit these products.
How can I get a silicone product from Dorset Orthopaedic?
First, arrange an appointment with our clinic in Ringwood, Hampshire. While we offer prosthetic services at our centres in Leeds, Birmingham and UK, we perform most of our silicone work at Ringwood. Alternatively, we work with clinical partners across the world. Our silicone technicians visit them regularly, helping partners provide the finest possible silicone covers. To find out more about our current partners and their locations, please call us on +44 (0) 1425 481740 or email enquiry@dorset-ortho.com.
What Silicone options do I have?
There are generally three choices:
- High-Definition (multi colour): these products use any number of colours necessary to match your skin tone and definition.
- Tri-Colour: manufactured using the three most appropriate colours from your contra lateral limb.
- Single-Colour: featuring the single closest colour to your contra lateral limb.
We design and hand-sculpt each product, featuring individual details and shaping from moulds of your contra lateral hand or foot. For High-Definition products, we can add such bespoke features as hairs, follicle marks, moles and tattoos.
What are your classifications of silicone covers and products?
- Toe
- Partial Foot
- Symes
- Below Knee
- Above Knee (discontinuous cosmesis, stopping at the knee)
- Above Knee (full leg)
- Finger
- Partial Hand
- Below Elbow myo-electric arm
- Below Elbow dress arm
- Above Elbow myo-electric arm
- Above Elbow dress arm
- Through Shoulder
- Restoration Covers (for badly scarred or disfigured limbs)
How long does a silicone cover last?
It will last on average for between two to three years. When looked after, silicone is very resilient and hardwearing and will last a long time. We can also conduct repairs in certain situations.
What prosthetic components can you use within a silicone cover?
We can use most prosthetic components, within reason. You can discuss this in more detail with our clinicians.
Can you alter a limb once the silicone cover is applied?
Yes, all covers are fully removable. This allows us to alter limb alignment, replace sockets and service components. For partial limb prostheses made entirely from silicone, such as a foot or hand, we always manufacture a test piece first. This is a basic piece of clear silicone that we test for fit, function and alignment before making the definitive piece. Once we've made the definitive piece, we can only make slight alterations.
How should I care for my silicone product?
It is easy to care for silicone. Regularly wipe the outside of the product with a damp cloth, using a liquid soap where necessary to keep the surface clean. If the silicone contacts any part of the body, clean it regularly with warm soapy water.
Will it add weight to my prosthesis?
Yes, however this weight should feel minimal with a well-fitting prosthesis.
Can I use my silicone product in the water?
Yes, if your prosthesis was designed for use in water. However, please discuss any concerns with your clinician before doing so. If you're exposing your silicone to chlorinated or salt water, ensure you rinse this off with fresh water afterwards.
Can I wear any shoes with my lower limb silicone product?
Yes, within reason. Your Prosthetist will always set the limb to wear with a certain heel height of shoe. When manufacturing a silicone foot, the technician will ask you to supply some examples of shoe styles you like. This will ensure you enjoy a product that fits perfectly with your choice of footwear.
