It is generally safe and common practice to sleep with a prosthetic eye in the eye socket. An ocular prosthesis is a custom-made acrylic shell that fits over an orbital implant or fills the space where a natural eye once was. Unlike contact lenses, these devices are designed for extended, continuous wear, and most ocularists recommend keeping them in place. This practice helps maintain the health and shape of the eye socket for long-term comfort and fit.
Leaving the Prosthesis In
Leaving the prosthetic eye in overnight is the default recommendation for wearers of a full ocular prosthesis. The device is custom-fitted and made from non-porous materials, such as medical-grade acrylic, which do not easily harbor bacteria when properly maintained.
Continuous wear helps preserve the integrity of the socket’s delicate structures and supports the natural function of the eyelids. If the socket is left empty for several hours, tissues can contract, potentially leading to a poorer fit or complications like eyelid drooping.
The presence of the prosthesis maintains the socket’s volume and ensures proper lubrication by distributing the natural tear film. Avoiding daily removal minimizes the disruption of this tear film, which naturally lubricates and protects the socket lining. Many patients only remove their prosthesis every few weeks or months for a deeper clean, finding that constant wear offers the most comfort and convenience.
When Removal is Necessary
While sleeping with a full prosthesis in is common, removal is advised in specific circumstances. This is especially true for a scleral shell, which is a thinner prosthesis worn over an existing, non-seeing eye. Scleral shells should typically be removed nightly to allow the underlying eye surface to receive oxygen, preventing issues like inflammation or tissue damage.
A full ocular prosthesis must also be removed if the wearer experiences signs of irritation, infection, or excessive discharge. Symptoms such as persistent pain, redness, or an abnormal increase in mucus production signal that the socket needs immediate attention and cleaning. These symptoms often indicate a buildup of protein deposits or an underlying infection requiring medical evaluation.
Scheduled removal is necessary for routine deep cleaning and polishing. Wearers usually perform this monthly, while an ocularist performs professional polishing every six months to a year. This process removes mineral and protein deposits that accumulate and can cause chronic irritation. Following the personalized instructions given by an ocularist or ophthalmologist is the most reliable guide for removal frequency.
Overnight Care Procedures
Whether the prosthesis is left in or taken out, certain nightly care procedures are important to maintain comfort and hygiene. If the prosthesis remains in the socket overnight, using an approved lubricating solution is often recommended to prevent dryness. Artificial tears or specific prosthetic eye gels, often containing ingredients like mineral oil or polyvinyl alcohol, help mimic the natural tear film and provide long-lasting moisture.
A small amount of lubricant applied before bed helps prevent the device from sticking to the socket or causing discomfort upon waking. When a full prosthesis is removed for a cleaning cycle, it should be washed using a mild, unscented soap or baby shampoo and warm water. Harsh chemicals, alcohol-based cleaners, or abrasive materials must be avoided, as these can permanently damage the smooth acrylic surface.
If the prosthesis is to be stored out of the eye overnight, it should be placed in a clean, sealed container. It is generally advised to keep the device moist, either in distilled water or a designated saline solution, to prevent the material from drying out and potentially warping. Proper handling, including placing a soft towel beneath the work area, is important to prevent accidental chipping or scratching of the device during removal and storage.