A silicone facial prosthesis made for a patient and worn for 5 years was reported. The patient was a 71 years old female, who had a left-side facial defect. After complete dentures had been fabricated, a facial prosthesis was fabricated of silicone and an obstacle frame was used for its retention. She returned once a year for the first 3 years for her dentures to be checked and her prosthesis repainted. Then, 5 years from the delivery of the facial prosthesis, she returned to have it repaired. The inner surface of the prosthesis, having been exposed to exhalated breath, showed partial black discoloration.
The surface topography of the inner surface of another prosthesis made from the same mold used for the one worn in this case was observed by SEM. The area of the duplicated prosthesis corresponding to the blackened one of the worn prosthesis showed a rough surface; whereas, the area corresponding to the non-discolored area in the worn prosthesis showed a smooth surface.
These findings suggest that the inner surface of a silicone facial prosthesis, which is constantly exposed to exhalated breath should be smoothed or relined with other materials for a long-lasting sanitary status.
