"But aesthetics are not only important for how others perceive the prosthesis – they also play an important role in our own acceptance of it."
Tims's Story
Photo: Kira Flora
High-Tech You Can Wear: Why I Wear My Prosthesis Openly
Hi! I'm Tim, 33 years old, and I live in Stuttgart with my wife. I've been wearing an arm prosthesis for the past ten years.
I've always been an active and sporty person – and the accident that led to me wearing an arm prosthesis hasn't changed that. Still, an event like that brings many new challenges. Beyond adapting to everyday life, I also had to get used to a new body image. Suddenly, you no longer fit society's visual norm, which can be especially difficult when you're young.
As an engineer, I've always been passionate about technology. From the very beginning, I knew that I didn't want to hide the technology behind my prosthesis. I've always preferred wearing it openly rather than covering it with cosmetic gloves or prosthetic covers. Today, I wear a myoelectric upper-arm prosthesis with an active elbow joint and a VINCENTevolution hand by Vincent Systems – all in black.
What Are the Advantages of Wearing My Myoelectric Hand Prosthesis Openly?
The robotic appearance of my left arm often sparks curiosity and fascination in others. Because I wear it openly, people frequently ask me about my prosthesis. The nice thing is that I get to decide whether I feel like talking about it or not.
But aesthetics aren't just about how others perceive us – they also play an important role in self-acceptance. The truth is, if you don't feel comfortable with your prosthesis, you're less likely to wear it or may take it off more often. As a result, you might end up doing things without it that it could actually help you with.
Photo: Kira Flora
How Can I Personalize My VINCENTevolution Hand Prosthesis?
Fortunately, there are now many ways to customize the appearance of a prosthesis to suit your individual preferences. Prosthetists can often incorporate visual customizations when creating the socket itself. Covers and cosmetic gloves allow you to change the look for different occasions, and hand prostheses are now available in an ever-growing range of colors. Vincent Systems' hand prostheses, for example, are available in a wide variety of color combinations for both their aluminum and silicone components.
Earlier this spring, I wore a light-colored suit for my wedding. Since my regular prosthetic hand created quite a strong contrast, I borrowed a VINCENTevolution hand in cream white and gold. It complemented my outfit perfectly and added a special touch to an unforgettable day.
Why Modern Prosthetic Design Is About More Than Just Appearance
At Vincent Systems, the philosophy of wearing prostheses openly has always been at the heart of its designs. In recognition of its commitment to developing hand prostheses that combine both functionality and aesthetics without the need for cosmetic gloves, the company received the German Design Award in 2014.
Personally, I'm incredibly grateful to wear such a remarkable piece of high-tech engineering – one that I can rely on completely, both in everyday life and on life's special occasions. At the same time, I'm excited about what the future holds and look forward to the innovations still to come.