Do's and Don'ts of Artificial Eyes

Prosthetic eyes have come a long way. Today, they are made with more care, diligence and artistry than ever before. Ocularists are skilled craftsmen, able to create realistic artificial eyes that not only enhance a person's appearance but help them lead normal, fulfilling lives after disease or an accident made them believe otherwise.

Even with the advances made in artificial eye production, it is still critical that the wearer of an ocular prosthesis care for it correctly. There are several "dos and don'ts" for today's hand-crafted, acrylic prosthetic eyes.

New patients should be careful to never wipe or scratch the eye in an outward direction. In other words, if the eye is causing irritation, always wipe toward the nose, which will prevent the prosthetic from leaving the socket. And always close your eye when doing so.

Dust, sand and irritants can make it uncomfortable to wear an artificial eye from time to time, so wearing protective eye wear if spending a considerable amount of time outdoors is a good idea. This is common while playing or watching sports as well. Always try to be aware of what can impact you and potentially cause damage to the eye, especially when around those how may not understand the consequences or know that you have a prosthetic eye.

Water sports and being in and around water is a very popular way for many of us to spend time with family, either when on vacation or during those lazy summer days. Those with artificial eyes, however, have to be extra cautious when around water. In fact, water sports, such as diving and water skiing, are the most common ways ocular prosthetics are lost. The best method of protection in these situations is to wear a patch or to remove the eye and store it in a very safe place.

Temporary storage of an artificial eye is critical. Many of them get lost or wind up in the trash in mere moments if left on a counter or wrapped in a towel. Having a dedicated case to use when cleaning or storing your eye can mean the difference in having to get a new fitting every 15 years or every few months. Some wearers like to store their eye in a saline solution, similar to contacts, to keep it clean and prevent protein build-up, which can occur every couple of weeks. You can also simply add a small bit of salt, around a 1/4 of a teaspoon, to a cup of water and store the eye within it.

Only a good polishing by an ocularist can really make your eye as clean as possible. In fact, it may be best to stay away from all solutions or chemicals with which you are not familiar. It's best to simply use warm water and gentle scrubbing. Typically, a well made prosthetic eye will only need to be cleaned every couple of weeks.

Many believe that the best way to polish and care for an artificial eye is to use a silicon-based lubricant, as opposed to a water-based lubricant. Silicon-based solutions actually never fully dry, allowing for a longer period of comfort and more realistic sheen. As always, discuss the issue with your ocularist to best decide which product will be best for you.

Above and beyond all methods of care for your eye, the best approach is to exercise prevention. This is best done with glasses. A simple, attractive pair of glasses is easy to find and the selections to compliment your personal style are virtually endless. From sunglasses while driving to those you wear on a special night out, eye wear is your best bet for around-the-clock protection from random debris and unnecessary harm to your prosthetic eye.