Anaplastology: Steve Stephens, CP, AA - Tidewater Prosthetic Center

A prosthesis is an artificial substitute for a missing, disfigured, or malformed part of the face or body. Each prosthesis is custom made for the individual patient. Generally speaking, the different kinds of prostheses made by an Anaplastologist include: facial, somato (body), and ocular (eye) prostheses.

Prosthetic treatment offers an alternative when surgical reconstruction cannot be achieved or may be preferred by the patient. Prosthetic treatment offers various advantages and disadvantages compared to surgical reconstruction. Treatment options should be thoroughly discussed with a medical professional. An Anaplastologist can assist by discussing a patients prosthetic needs, showing the patient examples of actual prostheses, discussing the process involved in producing the device, and providing photographs of previous cases for illustration.

The desired goal of a prosthesis is to restore form and function. A prosthesis helps to protect exposed delicate tissues, covers exposed cavities, may provide support for eyeglasses or hearing aids, and restores appearance. A prosthesis should replicate missing anatomy as closely as possible resulting in a natural and lifelike appearance. A well-made prosthesis can facilitate the return of an individual to most of their normal activities and eliminate the need for bandages and eye patches. It can help to restore self-confidence and ease the anxiety one might experience in a public setting. Because the prosthesis is not living tissue, there are some obvious limitations; the prosthesis may not restore normal movement, does not blush or tan and must be removed for cleaning. Even a well-made prosthesis may be detectable under close observation.

A prosthesis can address physical rehabilitation, but some patients may also require psychological counseling or spiritual direction. An Anaplastologist can refer prosthetic patients to seek this type of treatment through their physician, a team member counselor, or an appropriate healthcare provider.

When provided by a non-physician, prosthetic devices are considered durable medical equipment, and as such are usually prescribed by a physician and covered by insurance companies when medically necessary.

- Information from AAA - http://www.anaplastology.org/