Frequently Asked Questions
| Why does the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask only need such light strap pressure? | Most masks seal around the outside edge of the mask, a linear distance of up to 20cm. Generally, the larger the sealing area, the more strap pressure is required. With the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask the sealing area is only the size and shape of your nostrils. The straps are primarily there to prevent the mask from being pulled off your face during movement whilst sleeping. |
| How stable is the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask on the face? | This is a very hard question to answer as each mask is an individual and will fit only one person. However, because the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask is an exact fit on your face, we believe it to be the most stable mask available anywhere in the world. The TrueFIT™ Custom Mask is so secure on your face that it will dictate movement to the hose at all times and not the other way around (which can create mask leaks). The TrueFIT™Custom Mask only extends a few millimetres beyond the tip of your nose, making it stable in all sleeping positions. You can even change positions during sleep without dislodging the mask. |
| Why will the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask hold my nasal passages open? | The triangular box of conventional mask design creates a zone of pressurised air within the box which changes each time the user inhales and exhales. Because this pressure zone includes both the inside and the outside of the nose, as the pressure on the outside of the nose increases during the normal breathing cycle, the nasal passages can collapse. With the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask there is no pressurised air on the outside surface of your nose and your CPAP air is directed straight into your nostrils, therefore holding the nasal passages open continuously. |
| Does the seal go up the nose? | Yes. When we take the impression of the face, we include the first 5-10mm of the nostrils. This allows us to make small protrusions that fit comfortably inside the end of the nose. These protrusions make the seal of the mask effective and help keep the seal stable in all sleep positions and as the wearer moves about during the night.Some standard masks also have “prongs” which go up the nose. These are known as “direct nasal masks” or “nasal pillows”. The part of these masks that go up the nose are typically pyramidial-shaped ovals. They can create pressure spots and leaks (unless you have perfectly uniform, oval-shaped nostrils!) and they are notoriously unstable. Also, the aperture at the end of the ovals is smaller than the nostril, which leads to a jet of air shooting into the nose. Because the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask has protrusions which are perfectly shaped to fit the individual nose, the user will not be aware of the protrusions and will be able to breathe comfortably and naturally. |
| What about side sleeping? | Most people sleep on their sides during a normal night’s sleep. This can be almost impossible to achieve with conventional masks without creating leakage. Aside from disrupting your CPAP therapy, these leaks can also disturb the sleep of both you and your partner. As the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask is an exact fit over your nose, it will remain in the correct position on the face and will remain comfortable whatever sleep positions you prefer. |
| Can I use my TrueFIT™ Custom Mask with my current CPAP machine? | Yes, you can use the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask with any CPAP machine. If your CPAP machine allows a selection for different types of mask, we will advise you of the appropriate setting when we send you your mask. |
| Does it become hot in summer? | On really hot and humid nights having any mask on your face can be uncomfortable and the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask is no exception. The materials the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask is made from are hypoallergenic and suitable to be worn against the skin in all conditions. |
| Does the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask cover my mouth? | No, the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask sits between the top lip and the base of the nose and does not cover the mouth. Normal speech and breathing is possible. |
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Where can I purchase a TrueFIT™ Custom Mask?
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You can only purchase the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask from Acurest in Brisbane, Australia. Please see the ordering information page for more details. Acurest will work with the DVA to claim the cost of your mask (if eligible). Contact your Dr for more information. |
| What is the facial impression like? | The appointment normally takes about 60 minutes. We spend time talking about the many benefits the mask will have for you as an individual. Then we lie you down to allow the fluids to drain from your face so that we can take an impression of your sleeping face. The process of taking the impression lasts for about 30 minutes and is quite relaxing; not as much fun as having a facial, but much more fun than a visit to the dentist! |
| How long does it take to have my new mask manufactured? |
It will take approximately three weeks to hand-make your TrueFIT™ Custom Mask. |
| Do I have to come back for fittings? | You can if you prefer, but this is not really necessary. Remember, the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask is made to fit you, so no adjustments for fit are needed. We normally ship the completed mask directly to your home via courier or Registered Post. It will include full instructions for fitting your new mask yourself and you can always contact us for advice if you are having problems. |
| How do I clean my mask? | So simple. Wash it every morning with plain soap and cold water. Just follow the Care and Maintenance Instructions which are included with your mask. |
| Is the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask expensive? | The TrueFIT™Custom Mask costs $1,450. This mask is not an "off the shelf" standard sleep apnea mask. Far from it. Each mask is individually hand-made. The normal life of a TrueFIT™ Custom Mask is three years. Over this timeframe, the cost of the mask works out to about $40 per month. There are also flexible interest-free payment options available to make the cost more manageable. |
| I’m a mouth breather. Will the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask work for me? | Effective CPAP therapy depends upon pressurised air being held in the airway during sleep. Opening the mouth while on CPAP may allow air to escape (known as “mouth leak”) which will compromise the therapy. Some people are able to control mouth leak with the use of a chin strap (which stabilises the jaw) or with a small piece of tape placed vertically across the lips. Please follow this link for information on mouth breathing and full-face masks. |
| Can you guarantee that this mask will work for me? | The short answer is no, we cannot make that guarantee. Whether or not this mask, or nasal CPAP masks in general, can work for an individual involves many variables that are out of our control.We can and do guarantee that your TrueFIT™ Custom Mask will fit you comfortably and seal effectively. |
| Does Medicare provide any rebate for the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask? | No. Despite the long term benefits of effective CPAP treatment, there is currently no assistance provided by Medicare.However, the TrueFIT™ Custom Mask does qualify for the net medical expenses tax offset on your tax return. Under this provision, you may claim a tax offset for 20% of net medical expenses that exceed $2,000 in any financial year. For more information about this, please contact your tax adviser and/or see the Australian Taxation Office website at the following link: http://www.ato.gov.au/print.asp?doc=/Content/19181.htm |
| Will my Medical Fund cover this mask? | You will need to check with your fund, because there are many different ways that health funds in Australia cover CPAP equipment. Some funds cover CPAP machines but not accessories, others provide a fixed amount over certain periods for medical devices. The level of rebate you may get will also depend on your level of coverage. Acurest will provide you with a tax invoice so that you can make a claim from your health fund. |