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Instructions for the use of elastomer and putty conformers

Patient information A-Z

Intended use

The elastomer or putty conformer you will be given is a silicone based product used to help soften and flatten your scars. Your occupational therapist will have provided you with elastomer / putty conformer which has been individually moulded to you.

Method of use

  • The conformer will be held in place by tubigrip, pressure garment or tape.
  • It can be worn up to 12 hours per day and should be worn no less than eight hours per day, removing to massage as instructed.
  • Wash the elastomer / putty conformer and scar area daily with warm soapy water and pat dry.
  • When not being worn, place it in a plastic bag and store in a cool place.
  • Do not bend the elastomer / putty conformer as it will break.

Care of the elastomer / putty conformers

  • The elastomer / putty conformer’s lifespan varies greatly but it normally lasts between two and three months.
  • As it ages, it gradually begins to dry out and eventually breaks and crumbles.
  • When this happens you will need to contact your therapist to arrange another appointment.
  • If the shape or position of the scar changes then a new conformer may need to be moulded.
  • If the elastomer/putty conformer is not fitting well or is difficult to put on then please contact the occupational therapy department.

Risks

  • Only a small number of people have a skin reaction to conformers.
  • If a skin reaction occurs remove the conformer and keep it off for 48 hours.
  • When the rash has gone, restart its use.
  • If further reaction occurs, stop using the elastomer / conformer and contact your occupational therapist.

Contact / further information

If you have any problems of queries, please contact occupational therapy.

The occupational therapy department is open Monday – Friday between 08:30 and 16:30.

Our contact number is 01223 216769.

We are smoke-free

Smoking is not allowed anywhere on the hospital campus. For advice and support in quitting, contact your GP or the free NHS stop smoking helpline on 0800 169 0 169.

Other formats

Help accessing this information in other formats is available. To find out more about the services we provide, please visit our patient information help page (see link below) or telephone 01223 256998. www.cuh.nhs.uk/contact-us/accessible-information/

Contact us

Cambridge University Hospitals
NHS Foundation Trust
Hills Road, Cambridge
CB2 0QQ

Telephone +44 (0)1223 245151
https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/contact-us/contact-enquiries/