Cosmetics responce 1

Cosmetics responce 1

7/22/2009

The response to my comment/question was more then I expected. I also want to clarify I was speaking about making the bare socket of an uncovered prosthesis (without cosmetic cover) more cosmetic and with a finished look. A number of responses addressed cosmetic covers, which appears to be an issue as well.

 

Some of you old timers like me may recall when Otto Bock introduced the endoskeletal system in the 1970s first on the list of importance in their Technical Bulletin was “Cosmetics”

 

Thanks to all that responded.

 

 

Hi Al,

If I am following your thoughts on cosmetic finishing I think you are talking about filling some of the undercuts and the tapered shaping of some of the sockets and making them look more rounded and symmetrical? I know that is something I try and do vs. just using the shape of the socket to be the final shape. I like to do a cosmetic lamination over some filler foam as you mentioned to blend in the contours. It looks better that way and I think the patients like it also.

 

 

Al:

        Your concept is one whose time has come.  The first major office (probably in Beverly Hills) that hires a top PR firm and creates a demand by doing makeovers on the prostheses of beautiful women will kick off a demand that will spread from women to men and from the rich to the hoi polloi without a doubt.  Just as restorative surgery became cosmetic surgery. Now, who20will take the step to make it happen?

 

 

Hi Al:

I agree. A leg designed for a cover, without a cover, looks unfinished because
it is.

 
Good afternoon Al,

We routinely make the extra effort when we do a sport finish (no custom shaped
over). We add foam to give them a calf muscle (if needed) or any other
definitive shape. We also laminate using Fred's legs laminating sleeves with
flames, lightning bolts, or other graphics. We also do T-shirts that have
various graphics, or just the plain carbon finish for the high tech look. We
don't charge extra for this even though it cost us extra time, money for fabric,
T's, or sleeves. Even simple things like turning the PVA bag inside out to give
it a high gloss finish can make a big difference.

I am old school too, but love to add the extra touches to personalize when we
can. Gotta keep that artistic touch alive.

 
Ouch.... even as an old school orthotist I have to admit much of the art has
faded with the years. No excuses here. Thanks for the reminder. No apologies
needed.