Frequently Asked Questions

How can I expect my eye to look?

We strive for your eye to look natural, and indistinguishable from your other eye. Your age, type of surgery/implant, and the general condition of your eye socket can make some differences. We’re happy to talk with you about what you’re hoping for. And if you’d like your eye to look a little more fun and unusual, we’re thrilled to customize your eye any way you’d like!

How do I care for my prosthesis?

You can find detailed care instructions here.

The best way to clean your eye is simply with warm water and soap. If you want, you can also soak the eye in saline cleaning solution (similar to what you would use for contacts). DO NOT use alcohol. Artificial eyes are made out of material that will dissolve if they come into contact with alcohol or any chemical product containing alcohol.

If you experience significant protein buildup, you should see your ocularist for cleaning and polishing. Schedule an appointment by calling our office at 503-229-8490 or emailing us at officemanager@centerforocularprosthetics.com .

How do I remove the eye?

It’s easy, and it gets easier with practice! All you need to do is pull your eyelid upward and look down, then gently push the prosthetic out of the socket. You can also use a suction cup if that helps (you can get them from our office). If you use a suction cup, tilt the top of the prosthesis and slide it downward.

How can I make the prosthesis move?

That depends on the condition of your socket. Movement is usually achieved using implants that are surgically placed by your ophthalmologist.

Should I use an eye patch?

You should use an eye patch as directed by your ophthalmologist, or if you wish to conceal your socket until your prosthesis is fitted. They can also be very useful to protect your prosthetic during a haircut.

Will people notice that I have an artificial eye?

Our goal is to make your prosthetic eye look as natural as possible. Many people have artificial eyes that no one knows about (even close family and friends in some cases). There are ways you can draw attention away from the prosthetic. Talk to our ocularist for some tips.

What training does an Ocularist have?

All Board Certified Ocularists (BCO) must complete a 5-year apprenticeship with another Ocularist, and comply with all the regulations and continuing education standards set by the American Society of Ocularists.

What material is used in making the eye?

Ocular prosthetics are made using dimensionally stable, medical quality Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), which is also known as acrylic. It’s the same material used in some hip replacements and related procedures. PMMA is compatible with being surgically inserted into the body, and allergies are highly unlikely.

Is an artificial eye considered “cosmetic” by my insurance?

There are very few insurance policies that consider artificial eyes purely cosmetic. They function as a protective device to the eye socket. Some policies may only cover a portion of the prosthesis, while others cover it 100%. Visit our Insurance page or call our office to learn more.

What is the youngest a child can be fitted?

We fit patients as young as 6 months old. It is important that infants and children be evaluated by an ophthalmologist first, and referred to have an artificial eye made if they need it. If children are not fitted with an eye when they need one, they can develop facial asymmetry as they grow.