Adhesive retained prosthesis

A patient guide for care and maintenance of your prosthesis

Your adhesive retained prosthesis has been custom made specifically for you and with careful maintenance and cleaning, should last you 12 to 18 months. This is because the colours in the silicone fade with UV rays and natural oils in skin. You will have six monthly review appointments with your Maxillofacial Prosthetist (MfP); so when a new prosthesis is required, arrangements will be made to facilitate this.

How to apply your prosthesis

Prior to applying your prosthesis, your skin must be clean, dry and free from previous adhesive residue. Skin should be free of creams or moisturisers as they will affect the adhesion of the prosthesis. We advise practicing locating your prosthesis without adhesive so you become used to positioning the device in the correct place.

A thin layer of adhesive should be applied to the edges of the prosthesis as initially indicated by your MfP with a cotton bud. In most cases the adhesive will be white and you must wait until it is clear before applying to your skin. Where necessary, you may need to pull your skin taught before applying the prosthesis to ensure the fit is comfortable and will not pull on the skin once adhered. Hold the prosthesis in place for 30 to 60 seconds to secure the adhesive.

How to remove your prosthesis

Remove your prosthesis daily to keep your tissues healthy and to maintain good hygiene. Grasp the thickest edge of the prosthesis and remove it slowly so your skin is not irritated, and the prosthesis edges are not torn.

Removing adhesive material from your prosthesis and skin

Removal of adhesive materials from your prosthesis will not only prolong its life, but maintain the thin edges and therefore its aesthetic properties, so a good regime of cleaning and maintenance is strongly recommended.

On the outside of the prosthesis, use your fingers and a small amount of soap lather to gently wipe the surface under cold or lukewarm water; never use hot water. Gently dry the prosthesis with a cloth.

Take great care around the edges of the prosthesis; the margins are generally very thin and can easily tear.

If you have been supplied with a water-based adhesive for your prosthesis, the adhesive can be removed with gentle cleaning with soap and water.

If you have been supplied with a solvent-based adhesive for your prosthesis, you will also have been supplied with solvent remover. A small application on a tissue will remove the adhesive from your prosthesis. Solvent adhesive can be removed from your skin with soap and water, however some patients choose to use remover agents or wipes which can be purchased at your local pharmacy or at online suppliers such as Technovent (opens in a new tab).

Store your prosthesis in a clean, dry container. Place on tissues with the front side down to prevent the edges from curling and damage.

How long can I wear my prosthesis?

You can wear your prosthesis all day. We do recommend removing it for some time so your skin can ‘breathe’. For most patients, this is when they are home in the evening. The prosthesis should not be worn in bed.

Can I exercise while wearing my prosthesis?

For gentle exercise, you can wear your prosthesis. We recommend washing it soon after to avoid bacterial build-up (see above). We advise against wearing your nasal prosthesis for contact sports such as rugby.

Further information

You will be supplied with enough adhesive and remover (if required) that will last you for 18 months. Further supplies can be purchased on the Technovent website (opens in a new tab).

If you feel your prosthesis requires alteration, contact the maxillofacial laboratory and arrange an appointment. Do not attempt to modify your prosthesis.

If your prosthesis is damaged, please contact the maxillofacial laboratory on the number below to arrange a review appointment.