Question 1

Do ocular prosthetics hurt?

Accepted Answer

No, wearing an artificial eye is not generally painful. Following surgery, there is a normal period of healing and adjustment, but once healed, the prosthesis acts much like a contact lens. If you experience ongoing discomfort or pain, you should contact us, as it may mean your prosthesis needs adjustment or polishing.

Question 2

How long does a prosthetic eye last?

Accepted Answer

While the acrylic material itself is very durable and can last for decades, subtle changes in the eye socket tissues occur over time. For this reason, we recommend a replacement or significant modification every 5 to 7 years to maintain a perfect fit, comfort, and optimal appearance.

Question 3

Will the artificial eye move with my other eye?

Accepted Answer

If your surgical implant is attached to the eye muscles (as is common practice today), your prosthesis will have coordinated movement with your companion eye. Because the prosthesis sits over the implant, the degree of movement varies from person to person depending on the specific surgical outcome.

Question 4

Will anyone be able to tell that I wear an artificial eye?

Accepted Answer

Our primary goal is to create a prosthesis that matches your companion eye perfectly in color, size, and depth. We hand-paint each iris layer by layer using fine red silk threads to mimic blood vessels. While no artificial eye is completely indistinguishable under close clinical inspection, our patients frequently tell us that new friends, coworkers, and even extended family are unaware they wear a true ocular prosthesis.

Question 5

When should I get a prosthesis after surgery?

Accepted Answer

Typically, patients are ready for a custom prosthesis approximately 6 to 8 weeks after their initial eye removal surgery (enucleation or evisceration). Your surgeon will advise when the eye socket is sufficiently healed. In the meantime, you will wear a clear conformer to hold the shape of the space.

Question 6

How many appointments will it take?

Accepted Answer

The complete creation process usually takes 2 to 3 appointments spanning over a two-week period. This allows us to take accurate impressions, sculpt the shape, meticulously hand-paint the colors in your presence, and perform final polishing and fitting adjustments.

Question 7

Can I drive and work during the process?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Getting your prosthesis is a non-surgical, outpatient procedure. It does not impair the vision of your remaining eye or require anesthesia. You may resume normal activities immediately after each appointment.

Question 8

Do I have to take it out every night?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. Continually removing the artificial eye can irritate the socket tissues and introduce bacteria. Unless specifically instructed otherwise, we recommend leaving the prosthesis in place for months at a time, removing it only when it feels uncomfortable or needs a thorough cleaning.

Question 9

How do I care for my prosthetic eye?

Accepted Answer

You should gently wash your eyelids daily with a warm, damp washcloth, much like washing a normal eye. When you do remove it for cleaning, wash it with warm water and a mild, unscented soap (like baby shampoo). Rinse thoroughly before reinserting. Never use rubbing alcohol or abrasive cleaners, as they will permanently damage the acrylic.

Question 10

How often should I come in for polishing?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend professional polishing every 6 to 12 months. Tear proteins and airborne dust naturally accumulate on the surface of the acrylic, which can irritate the delicate lining of your socket and dull the lifelike appearance. A quick, painless polishing restores the smooth surface and structural integrity of the prosthesis.

Question 11

Is this covered by my health or vision insurance?

Accepted Answer

Custom ocular prosthetics are typically covered by medical insurance, not vision insurance, because they are considered medically necessary prosthetics/durable medical equipment following surgery or trauma. We can help you navigate the pre-authorization process with your specific provider.

Question 12

Do you offer financing plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we understand that an ocular prosthesis is an invaluable but significant investment in your wellbeing. We work with third-party medical financing companies to offer flexible, low-interest payment plans. Please contact our front desk for more details on available options.

Question 13

My child needs a prosthesis. Will they have to sit still for hours?

Accepted Answer

Working with children requires a completely different approach. We are highly experienced in pediatric ocularistry. Our pediatric appointments are shorter, filled with distractions and gentle reassurance, and we allow the child to set the pace. We prioritize building trust so the experience is not traumatic.

Question 14

How often does a child’s prosthesis need replacing?

Accepted Answer

Because children's facial bones and eye sockets are constantly growing, their prostheses need to be modified or replaced more frequently than adults to stimulate symmetrical facial growth. Typically, adjustments are made every 6 months, and complete replacements are done every 1.5 to 3 years depending on their age and growth spurts.

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