Frequently Asked Questions

---

If you are missing a part of your face or body, there are several options available to help restore both appearance and function. The most suitable approach will depend on your individual situation and the reason for your facial or body difference. Options may include:

• Silicone facial prosthetics (ears, noses, eyes, etc.)
• Body prosthetics (nipples, fingers, toes, etc.)
• Implant-retained prosthetics (magnetic or bar systems)
• Adhesive-retained prosthetics
• Mechanical retention (glasses, frames, straps)
• No prosthetic treatment (personal choice).

Your treatment plan is fully personalised based on anatomy, lifestyle, and clinical needs, and the options are typically discussed during your consultation with your surgical and prosthetic team before the operation, allowing you to make an informed decision. However, if this discussion didn’t take place or if you still have questions about the prosthetic rehabilitation, our team will take the time to review your case, explore all available options, and support you in finding the solution that best suits your needs.

Head to our Blog to learn more about facial and body prosthetics.

Custom silicone prosthetics are available through:

• NHS maxillofacial prosthetic departments
• Specialist prosthetic clinics
• Private maxillofacial prosthetists
• Dental laboratories with prosthetic services

While you can get a facial and body prosthetic through the NHS, eligibility criteria, waiting times, and access, vary by region. Many patients choose private treatment for faster access and more personalised cosmetic outcomes.

Head to our Blog to learn more about facial and body prosthetics.

Prosthetics and surgical reconstruction serve different purposes:

• Prosthetics: removable, non-invasive, custom external restorations
• Surgery/implants: permanent structural reconstruction or implant fixation

Prosthetics are often preferred when:

• Surgery is not suitable or desired
• Tissue loss is significant
• Aesthetic restoration is the primary goal
• Reversible, non-invasive solutions are preferred.

Both options may also be combined in complex cases.

Silicone prosthetics are custom-made medical devices designed to replace missing facial or body parts such as ears, noses, fingers, nipples, or other anatomical structures. They are created using medical-grade silicone, which closely mimics the texture, translucency, and movement of natural skin.

They work by being securely retained in place using:

• Medical-grade adhesives
• Anatomical fit (natural suction or contour support)
• Implant-retained systems (magnets or titanium fixtures in some cases).

These prosthetics restore appearance, symmetry, and confidence without invasive surgery, making them a leading solution in modern prosthetic rehabilitation in the UK.

Head to our Blog to learn more about facial and body prosthetics.

Modern prosthetics are designed to achieve the highest possible level of realism through advanced silicone artistry, colour science, and meticulous hand-finishing techniques. While a prosthesis can closely replicate the appearance of natural tissue, it is important to understand that it remains a medical reconstruction rather than living biological material. Because of this, subtle differences may sometimes be visible on close inspection, and long-term wear may gradually affect surface colour or texture over time.

Despite these natural limitations, today’s silicone prosthetics are individually handcrafted and expertly colour-matched to each person’s unique skin tone. Specialist techniques allow for highly detailed replication of skin characteristics, including:

• Precise skin tone blending and undertone matching
• Vein mapping, pore simulation, and micro-texture detailing
• Natural translucency and light reflection for lifelike depth
• Layered pigmentation and bespoke shading for realism in varying light conditions

When created by experienced prosthetic clinicians, facial and body prostheses are typically highly realistic and discreet in everyday life. In most social and conversational settings, they are generally unnoticeable, helping patients feel more confident, comfortable, and at ease in both personal and professional environments.

Head to our Blog to learn more about facial and body prosthetics.

Silicone prosthetics are made through a highly specialised clinical process involving:

• 3D scanning or manual impressions
• Digital or sculpted modelling
• Custom wax try-ins for shaping
• Medical-grade silicone moulding
• Hand painting for skin realism and detail
• Final fitting and adjustment appointments

Each prosthesis is fully custom-made to match the patient’s anatomy, ensuring comfort, symmetry, and a natural appearance.

Head to our Blog to learn more about facial and body prosthetics.

The lifespan of silicone prosthetics varies depending on type, use, and care:

• Facial prosthetics (ears, noses, facial parts): typically 1–5 years
• General silicone prosthetics: often 12–36 months
• Smaller prosthetics (e.g. nipples): may last a few months to a couple of years
• Artificial eyes: can last 5–20 years with proper care and polishing.

Factors affecting lifespan include UV exposure, heat, skin oils, cosmetic products, and maintenance routines. Regular review and maintenance significantly extend durability.

In the UK, the cost of a silicone prosthetic varies depending on the type of prosthesis, the complexity of the case, and the level of customisation required. Because every silicone prosthesis is individually designed and hand-made, there is no fixed price.

Privately, silicone prosthetics typically range from a few hundred pounds to several thousand pounds per prosthesis. The exact cost depends on factors such as the area being restored (for example ear, nose, eye, finger, nipple, or facial prosthesis), the retention method used, the number of clinical stages required, and whether it is a first-time prosthesis or a replacement.

In general terms:

• Simple silicone prosthetics usually start from a few hundred pounds
• Standard facial or body prosthetics typically range into the mid to several thousand pounds
• Complex or full facial rehabilitation cases can be higher depending on clinical requirements.

NHS-funded silicone prosthetic care is also available for eligible patients and is usually provided free of charge, although access depends on clinical criteria and referral pathways, and waiting times may vary.

Overall, the cost is determined by the individual clinical need, level of detail required, and whether treatment is accessed privately or through the NHS.

At Engreco Healthcare, we provide bespoke facial and body prosthetics tailored to each patient’s individual needs and clinical requirements. We believe in full transparency, so we invite you to view our detailed price list here.

Artificial eye costs in the UK vary depending on material and provider:

• Private custom acrylic eyes: a couple hundreds pounds
• Glass eyes (less commonly used today): a few hundreds pounds
• NHS ocular prosthetics: free for eligible patients.

At Engreco Healthcare, we are a dedicated prosthetic clinic with extensive experience in both facial and body prosthetics. Having an in-house laboratory and  managing these cases routinely, we are able to offer high-quality, custom-made solutions at accessible fees. We believe in full transparency, so we invite you to view our detailed price list here.

In many cases, yes - most private insurance providers will cover prosthetic treatments, if it is medically necessary or functionally restorative. Coverage depends on:

• Policy terms
• Clinical justification
• Type of prosthesis.

While we are not currently registered to accept direct payment through insurance, we are actively working to partner with major insurance providers to make this process even easier in the near future. Patients often pay upfront and claim reimbursement. We’ll provide all necessary supporting forms and invoices to assist with your funding request.

Due to the nature of our work, and because many of the cases we treat are highly sensitive, protecting our patients' identity, privacy, and dignity is always our highest priority. For this reason, we do not routinely publish before and after photographs unless we have received the patient's explicit consent.

We understand that before and after images can be helpful when considering treatment. However, it's equally important to recognise that every patient is unique. Clinical needs, treatment plans, and outcomes can vary significantly from one individual to another, so comparing one patient's results with another's may create unrealistic expectations.

If you would still like to see examples of our work, we would be happy to share selected cases with appropriate consent during your consultation. You can find examples of our work under our Media Gallery, or follow us on Instagram or LinkedIn, where we occasionally share before and after results of successful cases.

No, we do not offer any treatments that are designed to be painful or cause discomfort. In addition to traditional techniques, we use advanced 3D technology to make processes like impression-taking as smooth and comfortable as possible. Your comfort and wellbeing are always our top priority. We’re here to make your journey as easy and stress-free as possible.

In some cases, local anaesthesia may be recommended to ensure a completely pain-free experience. If this applies to you, our team will discuss it with you during your consultation and answer any questions you may have.

Yes, most silicone prosthetics are designed for all-day wear, including work, social events, and daily activities.

Depending on the type and attachment method, they can often be:

• Worn for 8–16+ hours daily
• Kept on overnight in some cases (depending on clinical advice)
• Used during light exercise and normal routines
• Made waterproof with suitable adhesives (e.g. swimming possible).

Your clinician will advise based on your specific prosthesis type.

Proper care is essential for longevity and hygiene:

• Clean daily with lukewarm water and mild soap
• Avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol, or boiling water
• Store in a clean, dry container away from heat and sunlight
• Avoid heavy oils or makeup buildup unless product-safe
• Attend regular maintenance or review appointments

Good care preserves both appearance and adhesive performance.

Head to our Blog to learn more about facial and body prosthetics.

Artificial eye care includes:

• Gentle cleaning with lukewarm water and mild soap
• Avoiding harsh chemicals or boiling water
• Keeping the prosthesis in place unless advised otherwise
• Regular polishing appointments (every 6–12 months recommended in the UK).

Proper care prevents irritation and maintains long-term comfort.

Head to our Blog to learn more about artificial eyes.