Magnet Retained Nasal Prosthesis Created in San Francisco

At Medical Art Prosthetics, we are continually inspired by the dedication and artistry demonstrated by the talented clinical anaplastologists throughout our national network. Today we are pleased to highlight the exceptional work of Clinical Anaplastologist David Hoehn, whose San Francisco-based practice continues to transform lives through meticulous craftsmanship and compassionate patient care.

The Art and Science Behind an Exceptional Nasal Prosthesis

Creating a lifelike nasal prosthesis requires far more than technical skill alone. It demands an understanding of facial anatomy, advanced biomaterials, color science, sculpture, engineering, and above all, a commitment to the individual sitting in the treatment chair.

David’s intuitive handling of orthodontic resins, prosthetic silicones, and other specialized biomaterials is evident throughout this series of laboratory photographs. Each image captures a stage in a process that is both highly technical and deeply artistic.

The refinement of the wax pattern, thoughtful mold design, and precise silicone processing techniques all contribute to the final outcome. Every contour, edge, and transition zone must be carefully evaluated and adjusted. Small refinements that may seem insignificant during fabrication often become the details that determine whether a prosthesis merely fills a defect or truly restores a person’s appearance.

When an anaplastologist commits to excellence throughout every laboratory step, that dedication naturally carries forward into patient consultations, treatment planning, fitting appointments, and final delivery. The result is a prosthesis that reflects both technical mastery and genuine care.

Caring Twice: For the Prosthesis and for the Person

The practice of anaplastology requires two distinct forms of caring.

First, there is the care invested in creating the prosthesis itself. Custom facial prostheses require extensive attention to detail and many hours of artistic and technical work. Every stage of the process demands patience, concentration, and a willingness to continually refine the work until it reaches the highest possible standard.

The second form of caring is equally important.

As clinical practitioners, we care for people who have often endured significant medical challenges. Many have undergone cancer treatment, trauma reconstruction, or complex surgeries that have permanently altered their appearance. They arrive carrying not only physical concerns but also hopes, fears, expectations, and questions about what life may look like moving forward.

Listening carefully, understanding those concerns, and guiding patients through the restoration process is one of the most meaningful aspects of our profession. It is also one of the most demanding. Yet helping someone regain confidence, comfort, and a sense of normalcy makes every effort worthwhile.

How Patients Reach Out to Us for Help

Many patients discover Medical Art Prosthetics after searching extensively for answers. Some have never worn a prosthesis before, while others are looking to improve upon a previous result.

Our online consultation form allows individuals to share details about their situation, goals, and concerns before speaking with an anaplastologist.

One question we commonly ask is:

What Are Your Chief Complaints About Your Previous Prosthesis?

Common responses include:

• I would like my prosthetic nose to look more like my natural nose.
• I would like a better fit around my natural nasal contours.
• I would like the color to the prosthesis to match my skin color better.
• I would like the prosthesis to feel more secure and comfortable.
• I would like improved airflow and function.

In this particular case, our client shared the following:

“I am inquiring to see if there is a better prosthetic for me. I’m not very happy with the outcome of my prosthetic due to the appearance as well as my air passage is somewhat restricted. I have three titanium implants in the base of my nose which can be used. I enclosed a picture of my defect as well as what my current prosthesis looks like on me now.”

Her concerns are not uncommon. Patients who have undergone extensive surgery often invest tremendous hope in the restorative process and understandably desire the most natural and comfortable outcome possible.

Finding the Right Specialist Matters

For individuals requiring a nasal prosthesis, the journey does not always end when surgery is complete.

Many patients discover that locating a highly experienced facial prosthetic specialist can be challenging. Hospitals and surgical teams may have limited familiarity with available anaplastology resources. In some cases, patients are referred to providers whose practices focus primarily on other prosthetic disciplines rather than silicone facial restoration.

Because anaplastology is a highly specialized field, patients often spend considerable time researching options before finding the right provider.

This is one reason Medical Art Prosthetics has worked to build a national network of experienced clinical anaplastologists. Our goal is to help connect patients with practitioners who dedicate themselves to the art and science of facial restoration every day.

A Beautiful Outcome Through Specialized Anaplastology

After discovering Medical Art Prosthetics through our national website, this client was connected with David Hoehn in San Francisco.

Utilizing her existing implant-supported retention system, David designed and fabricated a custom magnet retained nasal prosthesis tailored to her anatomy, appearance goals, and comfort requirements.

The final result is a stable, secure, and highly lifelike prosthesis that integrates naturally with her facial features. Most importantly, she reported being significantly more comfortable and pleased with the outcome.

For patients seeking the highest level of facial prosthetic restoration, the combination of advanced materials, technical expertise, artistic vision, and compassionate care can make a profound difference. Another loyal Medical Art Prosthetics patient recently returned from the other side of the country, West Virginia, where Julia Schomberg delivered an updated nasal prosthesis that stays in place by fit alone. 

Cases such as this remind us why anaplastology remains such a rewarding profession. Behind every prosthesis is a person hoping to regain confidence and move forward with life. Helping make that possible is a privilege we never take for granted. Visit our dedicated Nose Prosthetics page and be sure to scroll all the way to see FAQs.