A prosthetic eye is a custom made shell that fits over an eye implant or shrunken eye to restore a natural appearance after loss of an eye.
Why someone might need a prosthetic eye
Severe injury, painful blind eyes, or tumours sometimes require removal of the eyeball, leaving the eyelids and surrounding tissues in place.
A prosthetic eye recreates the look of the missing eye so people can feel more confident in daily life.
- Individually painted to match the colour and pattern of the remaining eye
- Usually fitted by an ocularist a specialist in artificial eyes
- Moves with the other eye to a degree because it sits on an underlying implant
- Does not restore vision but can greatly improve self confidence
Living with and caring for an ocular prosthesis
The prosthesis is often worn full time and removed occasionally for cleaning with simple saline or recommended solution.
Most people quickly adapt and friends or colleagues may not realise an artificial eye is present.
- Regular checks are needed to polish or adjust the surface for comfort
- Lid hygiene and lubricating drops help keep the socket healthy
- A replacement prosthesis is usually needed every few years as tissues subtly change
- Seek advice if there is persistent redness, discharge, or soreness around the eye
