The Embalming Process

When you start making arrangements for a loved one, you want to think about whether or not you want to embalm the person. That can come down to many factors, including the budget you have, but it is important to know what to expect from the process. If you are not sure what embalming services are like and you want to know more before making a decision, there are some things that directors of funeral homes in Gulfport, MS want you to know.

People choose to have a loved one embalmed for many reasons. They may want to ensure that if there are any delays in the funerary services, there will be no issues. Embalming allows you to say goodbye to the person and to see them one more time in a peaceful manner. That can be crucial for getting closure. If you want to have an open casket at the service or if you want to have a viewing, you also have to choose to get the person embalmed.

Seeing your loved one being embalm can lead to more challenges in processing your grief. Embalming is the process of temporarily preserving the body by removing fluids and replacing them with chemicals. The fluids are removed from organs, veins, and tissues. Once the embalming is done, the person in charge will usually provide cosmetic procedures, as well, to leave the body looking how the family wants for their services. That is something important to consider.

The process begins with the embalmed washing the body. They will then use photos the family provides to set the features into a peaceful and natural expression. They will then start draining the body’s blood from the heart or from a vein while at the same time inserting chemicals like formaldehyde through another vein to preserve the body. The next step is to drain the organs. They will do so using a special metal tube. Once the organs are gone, they will fill in the chest cavities with more chemicals. Then, the embalmer will once again wash the body. They will dress it in the clothes the family chosen, provide makeup and other cosmetic procedures, as well. If the embalmer has to fix features, they will do so with wax. They may also apply glue to eyelids and lips to keep them closed. To make sure that you can get exactly what you want, ask for a list of the preplanning services the provider offers.

These are some of the most important things you want to remember when getting ready to decide if you want to have a loved one embalmed or not. It is important that you know what to expect and that you consider all of the reasons why embalming can be helpful. If you are not sure about the process or if you want to know more, you can reach out to a Gulfport, MS funeral home like us. We are here to answer all of the questions you may have about these kinds of funerary services as well as any other options you may be considering for your loved one. Give us a call now or visit us today to learn more about the options we can offer.