EMBALMING FAQ

• What really is embalming?
• Regarding embalming, what are my rights as a consumer?
• Is embalming a requirement?
• Why might I choose embalming?
• Why formaldehyde?
• Do they remove the internal organs?
• Will embalming preserve a body forever?

What really is embalming?
Embalming is a temporary preservation of a dead human body. This process is accomplished by a surgical-like technique of injecting chemical solutions into the deceased's vascular system, thus producing a natural lifelike appearance. This process dramatically retards tissue decomposition creating a time frame for a viewing and/or funeral service.

Regarding embalming, what are my rights as a consumer?
According to the Federal Trade Commission Funeral Rule, all funeral homes are required to get permission to embalm. If you select a funeral service which requires embalming, such as a funeral with a viewing, you may have to pay for embalming. You are not required to have embalming if you selected arrangements such as direct cremation or immediate burial. If a funeral home charges for embalming, they must explain why in writing. Examples include selecting a service with a viewing, arranging for shipment by common carrier, or selecting arrangements that require the funeral home to hold the remains for more than 24 hours provided that no refrigeration is available or a hermetically sealed container is not used and provided that embalming does not conflict with religious beliefs or medical examination.

Is embalming a requirement?
It may depend on such factors as whether the family selected a service with a public or private viewing of the body with an open casket; if the body is going to be transported by air or rail; or because of the length of time prior to the burial or cremation.

Why might I choose embalming?
The purpose of embalming is to preserve a dead human body from natural decomposition and to also restore a natural appearance. Embalming, along with other restorative techniques, can restore a body that has been ravaged by disease, decomposition, trauma, etc. to a more familiar and pleasing appearance.

Why formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde is used because it coagulates protein (what muscle and skin are made of), making the protein firm and more sturdy.

Do they remove the internal organs?
No. If the internal organs are removed it is done if the body is autopsied by the medical examiner.

Will embalming preserve a body forever?
No. Even if perfectly embalmed, every body will sooner or later decompose.