Will my eye move? As with all of medicine, the technology of replacing a natural eye with a prosthetic has advanced dramatically in recent years.  When an eye is removed, the volume is replaced by an implant that is subsequently attached to the rectus muscles, causing it to track with the companion eye. The prosthesis moves with the implant due to friction.   An eye that fits the implant poorly will not track well, and extensive trauma to lid and socket may also adversely affect prosthetic motility.  In certain cases, the option of pegging, or coupling from implant to prosthesis may be available.  

How long will the prosthesis last?  A prosthesis made of acrylic will last several years, though we recommend it be replaced every five years because of soft tissue displacement in the orbit.  Remember, a poor fitting eye can have detrimental effects to socket, lids, natural movement, implant, and overall cosmetic appearance. In children, eyes are replaced more frequently. 

How long must I wait to be fitted after having surgery?  Both Ophthalmologists and Ocularists agree that the socket must have at least six to eight weeks to heal before a custom prosthesis can be made.  As a special service, we offer a custom fabricated conformer for recently operated patients.  This temporary eye can be made a few days following surgery.

Will it be covered by my insurance? We welcome medicare and medical as well as most other insurance companies and HMOs.

Is it going to hurt?  The fitting process is essentially pain free. Few patients express minor discomfort when an alginate impression is taken of the eye socket, but this process usually takes less than a minute. 

Is there surgery involved?  We perform no surgical procedures.

Do I remove the prosthesis?  We will instruct you on how to insert and remove your prosthesis.  This is for reasons of hygiene and cleanliness. 

Can it fall out?  Except in extremely rare cases, properly fitted prosthetic eyes do not fall out.

Can I play sports? Any sport you feel comfortable playing is fine.  We recommend goggles for swimming and eye protection in all cases.

What is it made of? The Prosthesis is made of acrylic. It is light weight and does not shatter. 

How long does it take to make? The prosthesis is finished after three visits, and then is adjusted over any subsequent visits when needed.

Should I wear eye protection?  We recommend eyeglasses be worn at all time in order to protect your functioning eye.

Can I swim with the prosthesis in place?  Yes.  We recommend goggles be worn.

Will it look natural?  We strive to make your prosthesis look as natural as possible, and spare no time or amount of work in order to achieve the best possible result. 

What is the maintenance involved?  We recommend the prosthesis be removed regularly and cleaned by hand.  It is also important to return to the ocularist’s office to have it professionally cleaned, disinfected and polished.  This should be done every six months.