Artificial Eye Care: Choosing an Effective Silicone Artificial Eye Lubricant

Every year, scientists, engineers, and Ocularists get closer and closer to developing a prosthetic eye that returns site to those that have a lost or damaged eye. Researchers are experimenting with implanting microchips and one day loosing an eye will simply require surgery to implant a new, functioning, artificial eye.

However, until that day arrives, those that have lost an eye either due to an accident or disease will have to continue to wear artificial eyes. Although, the science as well as the artistry involved in developing prosthetic eyes has also progressed immensely since their inception.

The first prosthetic eyes were made from available, natural materials such as paste, wood, and metal. Later, prosthetic eyes were made from glass. However, this presented a problem as glass is not only fragile, but will also wear down relatively quickly.

While some Ocularists still specialize in making glass eyes, most modern artificial eyes are made from an acrylic plastic. This material is not only more durable than glass, but it also more closely resembles the texture of a natural eye. A typical life span for a modern acrylic plastic eye is around ten years.

Whichever material your prosthetic eye is made from, one thing is certain: you must properly lubricate it. Those who do not properly lubricate their eye are not only shortening the life span of their prosthetic via increased friction, but will also feel pain and irritation around their eye.

If you have a prosthetic eye, it is vital that you take care of it. This includes properly cleaning the eye as well as periodically returning to your Ocularist to ensure that the prosthetic eye still fits well and has not caused any infections.

It is important to note that your relationship with your Ocularist is vital as you can quickly outgrow your prosthetic eye, especially if you are younger. In fact, it is typical to have to replace your prosthetic up to five times between childhood and adolescence.

Choosing the right Prosthetic Eye Lubricant

While you may assume that this is an easy decision, the reality is that the difference between using a quality prosthetic eye lubrication and a sub-par lubrication can mean the difference between all-day comfort and constant irritation.

It should also be mentioned that there is distinct difference between moisturizers for normal eyes and lubricants specifically made for artificial eyes. The most obvious difference between these two products is viscosity. Normal eye moisturizers are very “thin” while prosthetic eye lubricants are much “heavier”.

This is due to one essential ingredient: silicone. In fact, you should never use an artificial eye moisturizer that is not composed of 100% silicone. Silicone never fully dries which is why it is perfect for those with prosthetic eyes. Comparatively, prosthetic eye lubricants that are water-based will dry out quickly which will require the user to constantly re-apply it.

In conclusion, those currently wearing a prosthetic eye or that will soon be fitted with one need to choose a 100% silicone based prosthetic eye lubricant. If your Ocularist does not have a specific product that they recommend, simply type in prosthetic eye lubricant into your search bar. Don’t underestimate the important of lubrication, it is as important as cleaning your prosthetic.