Dealing with the loss of a limb can be difficult. No matter whether the limb was lost due to accident or disease, patients with artificial limbs can feel as though they have lost their sense of self. Fortunately, modern technology is making it possible to regain some of your individuality after the loss of a limb.

Here are three cool ways that you can customize your own prosthetic limb in the future.

1. Create a unique prosthetic using a 3D printer.

The introduction of 3D printing technology has revolutionized the prosthetic market. If you are looking for an extremely lightweight prosthetic that looks like it was custom made for a science fiction hero, then employing the use of a 3D printer is your best bet. These printers allow specialists to use a computerized model of your limb to create a prosthetic out of triangulated mesh that will provide a perfect fit.

Not only do these prosthetic limbs look amazing, they are comfortable to wear as well. Talk with your doctor about the possibility of investing in a 3D printed prosthetic if you want to achieve a futuristic look.

2. Add interest to your prosthetic through tattoos.

According to the Pew Research Center, 45 million Americans are sporting tattoos. Having a limb removed used to mean a reduction in the amount of space on which a person could receive a tattoo, but some tattoo artists are choosing to push past these limitations and give amputees the chance to express themselves.

In much the same way that artwork is applied to a car, talented artists use acrylic paints to create tattoo designs on the plastic portions of prosthetic limbs. If expressing yourself through body art is important, you don't have to let amputation stand in the way. Talk to a tattoo artist in your area about receiving some custom designs for your prosthetic.

3. Use your prosthetic to support your favorite sports team.

Sports play a significant role in the social lives of many Americans. If you want to show support for your favorite sports team, you can accomplish this task by customizing your prosthetic.

Skilled fabricators have the ability to sew a t-shirt around a cast, and then apply a coat of liquid acrylic plastic. This gives you the chance to own a one-of-a-kind prosthetic limb that reflects your personal interests.

Losing a limb doesn't have to mean losing your individuality. Investing in a customized prosthetic (from centers like Cotton Orthotic and Prosthetic) will allow you to regain your sense of self after an amputation.