Q. What is LIVINGSKIN?
A. LIVINGSKIN is a high-definition silicone prosthesis that is created to resemble human skin by simulating the three dermal layers of natural human skin. To ensure proper color matching and fit, every prosthesis is custom crafted to each individual and can be matched to any skin color.
Q. Who is LIVINGSKIN?
A. We are a dedicated team of clinicians, artists and administrative staff who have been providing quality care to clients for over two decades.
Q. What services does LIVINGSKIN offer?
A. We offer complete prostheses for people who have sustained finger, partial hand, hand, facial and ear amputations. We also offer skin coverings for all other types of limb prostheses.
Q. Where is LIVINGSKIN?
A. The LIVINGSKIN main office Premier Service Center is in Middletown, NY located about 90 minutes northwest of Manhattan. Our other Premier Service Centers (PSCs) are located in Atlanta, Chicago, New York City and Toronto. A Premier Service Center is where a patient can meet with our LIVINGSKIN staff for consultation, impressions, color matching, delivery and/or adjustments.
Q. How do the prostheses stay on?
A. Most LIVINGSKIN finger, hand, and foot prostheses are suspended by suction. When suction suspension is not possible, a combination of other methods are use. Please contact us for more information.
Q. How long after surgery must you wait before receiving a prosthesis?
A. It is important for the injured area to completely heal from the surgery prior to taking impressions for a prosthesis. This includes suture removal and elimination of swelling. Most patients are ready for impressions in 3-6 months.
Q. How long does it take to create a LIVINGSKIN prosthesis?
A. Fabrication of each high definition silicone prosthesis is very labor-intensive. Most LIVINGSKIN prostheses take approximately 8 weeks to create.
Q. Can the prostheses be worn all the time?
A. LIVINGSKIN users do not wear their prostheses when bathing, sleeping, or during activities that will be more strenuous on the silicone prosthesis such as guitar playing, sports, construction and auto maintenance. It is important to avoid oil based products; many hair and body products contain oils and should be applied only when not wearing the prosthesis.
Q. Do the fingers move?
A. This depends on the level of restoration. For example, if a finger prosthesis is made to replace the tip of a finger or fingers, they can easily move and perform tasks using the residual limb's range of motion. If the fingers are missing completely, then movement is limited. In some cases, an internal armature is inserted that can be positioned as desired. With a body powered or myoelectric prosthesis, the LIVINGSKIN covering can move along with the prosthetic hand.
Q. How long do LIVINGSKIN prosthesis last?
A. The life expectancy of a LIVINGSKIN prosthesis depends on how it is used and maintained. With proper care and normal use, the average lifespan is 2 to 4 years.
Q. Is there a warranty?
A. Yes. Each LIVINGSKIN prosthesis is covered by a one year repair or replacement warranty when proper and adequate care is given to the prosthesis. A two year repair and replacement warranty applies when two devices are provided at the same time, and the devices are worn alternately to avoid excessive wear. All higher-level prostheses such as below elbow, above elbow and below knee, are covered by a l year warranty.
Q. Is it just a cosmetic prosthesis?
A. Absolutely not. The level of function varies with each device, depending on the type. All LIVINGSKIN prostheses can perform non-manipulative activities, such as supporting, stabilizing, pushing and pulling. Finger prostheses can be used for activities such as typing and playing the piano.
Q. Can the color be changed or modified?
A. Once painted, the color of the prosthesis can be darkened, using SEASONGUARD ? our proprietary pigmentizer, which fades over time as would a normal "tan". We advise everyone to have their prosthesis painted when they are not tanned. The color cannot be made lighter.
Q. Can fingernails be shaped and painted?
A. Yes, since they are made of acrylic, the fingernails can be shaped and painted like you would with a natural nail. A NON-ACETONE polish remover must be used to remove any nail polish. Custom nails are standard and included in the cost of the prosthesis.
Q. Can hair be incorporated into the prosthesis?
A. Yes, people who have significant body hair can have DERMA~HAIR® incorporated into their prosthesis, but we must be notified of this prior to manufacturing. DERMA~HAIR® is synthetic, non-removable hair which is custom matched and applied within the top layer of the LIVINGSKIN. Because the hair is embedded into the prosthesis it cannot fall out or fade away.
Q. How much do LIVINGSKIN prostheses cost?
A. The cost of LIVINGSKIN prostheses varies from $3,000.00 to over $10,000.00, depending on the level of restoration and the complexity of the case.
Q. Are LIVINGSKIN prostheses paid for by insurance?
A. Yes, LIVINGSKIN prostheses are paid for by many insurance companies and Workers Compensation Boards. Our administrative staff can help with these issues.
Q. What is needed to authorize payment?
A. A prescription (Rx) and letter of medical necessity (LMN) from your physician are required by most payors prior to authorizing payment for LIVINGSKIN prostheses.
Q. Whom do I contact for further information?
A. Please contact one of the following according to region:
New York Clinics/Northeast Region: Michele Meek, Customer Relations
(800) 208-7546 or michele@livingskin.com
Atlanta Clinic/Southeast Region: Rob Kistenberg, CP, FAAOP
(404) 325-2800 or
Chicago Metro Area Clinic/Midwest Region: Laura Reed, PT, CHT
(800) 481-1346 or
Toronto Clinic/Canada: Sylvia Rogan, OTReg (Ont.), OTR
416) 465-0266/(866) 774-7715 or
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