Before our death, we are encouraged to live life to the fullest. When our time is up, we will bother our bereaved loved ones for a final time because they will arrange funeral services for us. When this happens, they will choose the best possible service. For others, they request specific things to be done after their passing, such as embalming.
Embalming is preserving the deceased’s body by treating it with chemicals to prevent decomposition. This process is usually done in funeral homes and is used to help keep the body for viewing or funeral service. Embalming also helps sanitize the body, which is vital for preventing the spread of disease. However, it is worth noting that it is unnecessary, yet many people request to be embalmed for these reasons. Few people know how this works, so we will discuss the details in this article.
Embalming is divided into two distinct processes: surgical embalming and cosmetic preparation.
Surgical embalming is draining the body of all blood and replacing it with a preservative solution. The body is prepared by massaging to prevent rigor mortis, which is when the body’s muscles stiffen. The jaws will also be secured with wires or sewing thread that will not be visible.
After that, an incision is made on the body, and a tiny tube (trocar) is inserted into the veins. The trocar is used to suction out all the blood and replace it with a preservative solution. This solution helps to preserve the body and prevent decomposition.
Cosmetic preparation is preparing the body for viewing, which usually includes dressing and applying make-up to give the deceased a more lifelike appearance. Hair and nails may also be styled to help the body look more presentable.
Most families do embalming because they want an open-casket funeral and to view the deceased one last time. Embalming preserves the body, making it possible for family and friends to pay their respects and say their goodbyes. This is especially useful if relatives and friends fly in from overseas and cannot make it immediately.
When you embalm your deceased loved one’s body, the following benefits will be evident:
Embalming a body helps preserve it for much longer than if left untreated. This is because embalming fluids contain various chemicals that help slow down the natural decomposition process. If the family wishes to have an open-casket funeral, the body will appear the same as it did in life. Furthermore, embalming can help the body remain intact for longer, allowing for extended viewing for family and friends.
Embalming helps to reduce the risk of disease transmission by killing any bacteria and viruses present in the body. The process also involves the removal of bodily fluids, which helps to reduce the risk of infection and contamination.
Conversely, embalming also helps reduce the smell of decomposition, which can be unpleasant for family and friends. This means that the body can be viewed in a more dignified manner.
We all want to remember our deceased loved ones as they were in life. Embalming can provide a final lifelike look to the deceased. This process can help to restore color to the face and skin and can also help to hide any signs of trauma or illness. Embalming also helps to reduce the smell of decomposition, making it easier for family and friends to view the deceased with dignity.
No, embalming is not necessary for cremation. Cremation is the process of reducing a body to its basic elements through high heat and evaporation. Embalming is unnecessary for this process, as the body does not need to be preserved. However, embalming may be necessary if the body is going to be viewed before the cremation process.
The only person who can answer this question is you. While embalming has apparent benefits, it is up to you whether you want to be embalmed. If you are considering embalming, you must talk to your family or funeral director to get more information and make an informed decision.
Embalming is an excellent practice if you want your deceased loved one’s body to look good in death, but only if you or they want it done. Your deceased loved one’s body will be handled carefully, so you can rest assured they will look suitable for viewing. This way, you can give your deceased loved one a proper goodbye.
Ashes to Ashes Corporation provides top-quality services for cremation in Los Angeles. We understand how precious your loved one is, so we will ensure their remains are treated right before you receive them. Call us today at (323) 644-3323 and allow us to help you!
