A prosthetic eye, often referred to as an ocular prosthesis, is a custom-made artificial eye designed to fit within the eye socket after the surgical removal of a natural eye. Its primary purpose is to restore the cosmetic appearance of the face, helping individuals regain symmetry and confidence. Beyond aesthetics, the prosthesis provides essential structural support for the eyelids and the surrounding socket tissues, maintaining their natural shape and preventing collapse. Each prosthetic eye is meticulously crafted to match the color, size, and shape of the remaining natural eye, ensuring a lifelike appearance.
How Prosthetic Eyes Stay Secure
The custom fit is important for the stability of a prosthetic eye, which is typically made from durable acrylic plastic. An ocularist creates an impression of the individual’s eye socket, capturing its unique contours and anatomical features. This mold allows for the fabrication of a prosthesis that closely matches the socket’s shape, ensuring it sits and moves in harmony with the surrounding tissues.
The upper and lower eyelids then provide gentle pressure that helps keep it in place. While the prosthetic eye does not generate its own movement, its interaction with an underlying orbital implant and preserved muscles allows for coordinated motion with the natural eye. A well-made and properly maintained prosthetic eye rarely dislodges during typical daily activities.
Factors That Can Lead to Dislodgement
While generally secure, certain circumstances can lead to a prosthetic eye becoming dislodged. An improper fit, often due to a prosthesis that is old, damaged, or initially poorly made, can compromise its stability. If the socket changes shape over time due to natural tissue shrinkage or weight fluctuations, the fit may become loose, increasing the likelihood of slippage. Direct physical trauma or impact to the eye area, such as from a fall or a bump, can exert enough force to push the prosthesis out of its position. Similarly, excessive rubbing or forceful manipulation of the eye can disrupt its secure placement within the socket.
Conditions affecting the eye socket, such as swelling from infection or inflammation, can alter the fit and cause dislodgement. Excessive tearing or discharge might create a lubricated surface, allowing the prosthesis to slip more easily. Infrequent removal and cleaning can lead to a buildup of mucus and debris on the surface of the prosthesis, which can affect its smooth movement and adherence to the socket. In rare instances, forceful vomiting or rapid head movements might overcome the fit and cause a temporary displacement.
Proper Care and What to Do If It Happens
Maintaining the security of a prosthetic eye involves consistent preventive care and regular professional oversight. When cleaning, the prosthesis should be rinsed with a mild, non-abrasive solution recommended by an ocularist, avoiding harsh chemicals or alcohol-based products that can damage its surface. Routine check-ups with an ocularist are recommended for professional polishing and assessment of the fit. This professional maintenance removes buildup, ensuring the surface remains smooth and comfortable. Protecting the eye during activities that pose a risk of impact can further reduce the chance of dislodgement.
If a prosthetic eye does become dislodged, remaining calm is the first step. Locate the prosthesis, then clean it with a recommended solution before attempting reinsertion. If comfortable and previously instructed, the individual may attempt to reinsert it carefully. However, if reinsertion is difficult, painful, or if there is any discomfort or uncertainty, it is advisable to contact an ocularist or ophthalmologist. Professional help should also be sought if dislodgements become frequent, if there is persistent pain, or if any changes are observed in the eye socket tissues, as these can indicate an improper fit or underlying issue.