What is a Prosthetic Eye?

What Is an Ocular Prosthesis and How Is It Made?

An ocular prosthesis is used for individuals who have lost their vision due to various reasons (accidents, tumors, glaucoma, etc.) or those born with an empty eye socket. It helps fill the eye socket, prevents developmental disorders, protects the exposed area from external factors, and ensures that the surrounding eye bones develop normally. Ocular prostheses provide a better aesthetic appearance and are designed to move in coordination with the eye muscles. These prostheses are made of materials that do not break, deform, or undergo damage.

Types of Ocular Prostheses

Ocular prostheses come in two main types, depending on the patient’s budget and needs:

• Prefabricated Ocular Prostheses (Mass-Produced)
• Custom-Made Ocular Prostheses (Movable)

1. Custom-Made Ocular Prosthesis (Movable) These prostheses are crafted based on the specific measurements of the patient’s eye socket. Factors such as eye color, scleral color, blood vessel density, iris size, eyelid openness, and symmetry are taken into account to ensure a close match with the natural eye.
2. Prefabricated Ocular Prosthesis (Mass-Produced)
   These prostheses are pre-made in molds of different sizes (small, medium, large). They offer limited movement and are generally less cosmetically satisfactory.

Movement in Ocular Prostheses

Custom-made ocular prostheses offer a high degree of movement. If the eye muscles remain strong, the prosthesis is designed to contact the muscles directly, allowing it to reflect a significant amount of natural movement.

Materials Used in Ocular Prostheses

Modern ocular prostheses are made from two primary materials:

• Bio-Acrylic
• Porcelain

Bio-Acrylic Ocular Prosthesis

Bio-Acrylic is derived from 100% natural materials, making it healthy, homogeneous, durable, and fully compatible with the human body. It lasts longer and is considered healthier compared to porcelain prostheses.

Porcelain Ocular Prosthesis

Porcelain prostheses, which are imported as they are not produced in Turkey, are more fragile and have a shorter lifespan compared to Bio-Acrylic prostheses.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for an Ocular Prosthesis?

Any patient who has lost vision and has had their eye socket cleared surgically is suitable for an ocular prosthesis.

Features, Production Techniques, and Manufacturing Steps of a Movable Ocular Prosthesis at Renk Prosthetic Eye Center

First, high-resolution photographs of the patient’s eye color are taken and transferred to a digital environment. Blood vessel patterns and eye color are digitally matched. This method allows for a quicker, more accurate color match without requiring long patient waiting times. Every detail of the eye color is accurately replicated for a highly similar appearance.

Next, special mold techniques are used to model the eye socket. The symmetry of the cornea (focal point) is determined, and after fitting sessions, if there is no infection or discharge within 2-3 days, the prosthesis is fitted. The patient experiences no pain or discomfort during the procedure.

The Bio-Acrylic material we use is medical-grade acrylic, fully compatible with human health. There is no risk of breakage or deformation. The colors used in the prosthesis will not fade, and the prosthesis can be modified (enlarged or reduced). Its anti-allergic properties ensure long-term durability without losing its effectiveness.

After the Ocular Prosthesis is Fitted

Approximately three months after the prosthesis is fitted, the patient is invited for a follow-up visit. Any problems are addressed during this visit. If there are changes in the eye socket (enlargement or shrinkage), adjustments are made, and the prosthesis is polished before being refitted. These services are provided free of charge.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ocular Prostheses

How often should an ocular prosthesis be removed and cleaned?

While cleaning frequency depends on the patient’s body, it is typically sufficient to remove the prosthesis once a month and clean it with warm water and baby shampoo.

Is it necessary to wear the prosthesis while sleeping?

We recommend that you sleep with the prosthesis in place.

Can I swim with an ocular prosthesis?

Yes, you can swim, shower, and even exercise with an ocular prosthesis.

Does an ocular prosthesis cause discharge?

There is always a slight chance of discharge with an ocular prosthesis. If the prosthesis does not fit well, the likelihood of discharge increases.

How soon after surgery can I use an ocular prosthesis?

Approximately one month after surgery, once the swelling in your eye socket subsides, the socket will be ready for the prosthesis.