Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an Ocularist?
An ocularist is a carefully trained technician skilled in the arts of fitting, shaping and painting ocular prostheses. 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.
*Ocularists are not medical doctors. Your physician should address any concerns regarding the health of your existing eye or socket.
2. What is an artificial eye?
An artificial eye is an ocular prosthesis/ medical device worn on a full time basis, restoring volume and matching the appearance of the companion eye. Each prosthesis is custom-made using medical grade acrylic, fitted and hand-painted using the patient as the model. The artificial eye should be very comfortable, restore confidence and self esteem to the patient.
3. What is a Scleral Shell?
A scleral shell is an ocular prosthesis/medical device that is worn over an existing, damaged eye. This type of prosthesis is used to restore symmetry and volume to the damaged socket. It is worn over the front surface of the eye, within the confines of the lids. It is removed each night, similar to a contact lens.
4. Will my Ocular Prothesis move?
The artificial eye fit by impression, ensuring the most accurate representation of the contours of your socket. As long as your implant or eye moves, the prosthesis will move along with it. There are high motility implant options available that need to be determined on an individual basis. Please speak with your Ophthalmologist or Ocularist regarding this.
5. How long will it take to make my ocular prothesis?
It takes a series of appointments to create your custom ocular prosthesis. All fitting and painting is hand crafted in our office.
A custom ocular prosthesis will require 4 appointments and 6 appointments for a custom scleral lens.
These appointments are typically divided into two per day, with a few hours in between to process your prosthesis in the lab. We also offer 3 appointments in one day from beginning to completion, for patients who cannot take multiple days off work in a row.
These scheduled appointments will take approximately one hour and consist of a combination of fitting, impression, and painting your iris and sclera.
6. What can I expect after I get my new prosthesis?
Every socket is different; it may take some time for your body to adjust to your new prosthesis. You may experience some discomfort as socket changes during healing, when you receive your first prosthesis or have your prosthesis increased in size – if this persists, please make sure to contact our office for possible adjustments.
7. I think I have an eye infection, what do I do?
We are Board Certified Ocularists, not medical doctors. Unfortunately we cannot diagnose medical conditions or give medical advice. Please contact your family physician so they can assess and prescribe medications if needed.
To avoid socket contractions, please do not remove your prosthesis for a prolonged period of time.
8. Is there any maintenance involved with wearing an ocular prothesis?
Yes. Routine care is needed to maintain the integrity of the prosthesis. We advise having your prosthesis professionally re-glazed twice a year to remove protein deposits and scratches from the surface. This will help prevent discomfort, socket infection and maintain the lifelike sheen of a natural eye. A re-glazing appointment takes approximately half an hour and at this time we can assess the prosthesis to look for any changes in the socket that need to be addressed.
9. How do I clean my artificial eye?
We do not recommend over-handling of the artificial eye as this can introduce bacteria into the socket causing discharge and infection. Removing the prosthesis (with clean hands) once every three to four weeks and cleaning it with a soft cloth and unscented soap like baby shampoo is recommended.
The scleral shell should be removed every night unless advised otherwise. It should be rinsed and placed into the provided case in contact lens solution. This solution should be changed daily.
*Never apply any type of alcohol-based solution to the prosthesis as it will irreparably damage the surface.
10. How often should my ocular prosthesis be replaced?
An ocular prosthesis worn by an adult should be replaced every five years. Children under eighteen should have their prosthesis replaced approximately every two years due to growth. The prosthesis is porous and will absorb bodily fluids, causing the plastics to break down over time. This can lead to discomfort and infection. Occasionally, the socket or the existing eye will change causing the prosthesis to no longer fit properly. In this case the eye may need to be replaced earlier. Modifications to accommodate minor changes can be made by adding or removing material from the prosthesis.
11. What is the cost of an artificial eye?
If you are a resident of Ontario with a valid OHIP, the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) will cover 75% of the costs of ocular prosthesis devices. You will be responsible to pay the 25% balance. We do not provide direct billing but your insurance plan may reimburse you for this. A receipt will be issued to you at the time of payment.