Ocular Prosthesis

Prosthetic Eyes

The prosthetic eyes at {variable_practice_name} are hand painted using the patient’s companion eye as a model and guide for matching. They are made of high medical-grade plastic molded, shaped, colored, and polished to create a realistic and comfortable artificial eye. The plastic is lightweight, yet tough enough to resist breakage if dropped. Each artificial eye is custom-made and designed to fit each individual eye socket precisely.

How long will my artificial eye last?

Over time changes typically occur within the eye socket and lid structure that can affect the movement, comfort, and appearance of an artificial eye. The integrity of the acrylic plastic material will eventually break down and deteriorate causing socket and lid irritation and excessive secretions and discomfort.

The average patient needs to have their artificial eye replaced every 5-7 years, however, this can vary for each person. In the first few years, enlargements or reductions in the size of your artificial eye can often be made by adding or removing plastic without replacing the whole eye. Young children will need adjustments and replacements more frequently as their face size and shape are constantly changing.

Bring in a prosthetic eye to be replaced or modified if any of the following occur:

1. Excessive tearing or secretions
2. Chronic infections
3. Lack of movement
4. Constant dryness or irritations
5. An overall small or large appearance to the artificial eye
6. Color changes or differences
7. Drooping of the upper lid

Caring for and Cleaning your Prosthesis

1. Prepare the area to ensure cleanliness and to avoid dropping down the sink
2. Wash hands thoroughly
3. Use a mild hand soap, such as baby shampoo, and water
4. Rub the artificial eye well between the palm of your hands ensuring you cover all surfaces
5. If you notice heavy deposits or filminess on the eye you can use a warm cloth to lightly remove the deposits
6. Rinse completely and reinsert. There is no need to dry the eye before putting it back in, the moisture on the surface will aid in insertion. Some patients will find this a good opportunity to apply specific lubricants such as Systane Ultra, Refresh Optive, Refresh Liquigel or Sil-Ophtho.

Polishing the eye

Periodic Cleanings and Polishings will be needed to ensure a healthy eye socket and eyelids while maintaining good comfort, condition and cosmesis of the prosthesis. Over time the prosthesis will become scratched and dull with buildup and other films on the surface of the prosthesis. This build up prevents the prosthesis from being lubricated evenly and causes irritation to the eyelids. Increased irritation to the lids will cause excessive discharge and decreased comfort and cosmesis. Chronic inflammation and irritation can cause permanent changes to the lids and surrounding tissues. Cleanings and Polishings should occur every 3-6 months to ensure a healthy socket and avoid complications and infections. The periodic polishing will include an evaluation of the health of the socket and eyelids as well as the fit and appearance of your ocular prosthetic, ensuring that it is always looking and feeling as good as possible.