Macrocellular silicone foam for mechanically retaining orbital prostheses

The prosthesis processed with the technique described has a fitting surface that is smooth and glossy, a soft and uniformly compressible foam-filled mass to engage severe undercuts, and a lightweight mass for the completed prosthesis. The technique described increases laboratory time. However, the lightweight prosthesis provides intrinsic mechanical retention that justifies the extra time. Moreover, the controllable uniform compressibility of the foam-filled extension and the improved surface characteristics of the silicone fitting surface minimize the possibility of producing trauma while the prosthesis is inserted, worn, or removed by the patient.