What is an Ocularist?

An ocularist is a carefully trained professional skilled in the science and art of fitting, fabricating and painting ophthalmic prostheses (artificial eyes). In addition to creating it, the ocularist shows the patient how to handle and care for the prosthesis, and provides long-term care through periodic examinations and replacements.

The Title B.C.O.

Those ocularists that have achieved and maintained certification are designated as Board Certified Ocularists, B.C.O. It is the intent of NEBO to provide a national standard that can be used as a measure of competence by interested agencies, groups and individuals.

When deciding who is qualified to serve the patients’ needs, the B.C.O. indicates experience, training, competence and generally many years of experience helping patients or constituents.1 

For a more detailed description, please follow link to www.neboboard.org

In order to achieve the status of BCO, an apprentice ocularist studies and works under a sponsoring BCO for five years.  Over the course of these five years, the apprentice ocularist must pass numerous examinations testing the relevant areas of skill relating to the fitting and fabrication of a prosthetic eye.  These skills include anatomical knowledge, fitting and shaping, the precise artistic reproduction of a human eye, and the flawless fabrication of a completed prosthesis. 

1 From the NEBO website.   www.neboboard.org