What is an Ocular Prosthetist?
An Ocular Prosthetist is a carefully trained technician skilled in the arts of fitting, shaping, and painting ocular prostheses. In addition to creating it, the Ocular Prosthetist shows the patient how to handle and care for the prosthesis, and provides long-term care through periodic examinations.
How long have artificial eyes been around?
Artificial eye-making has been practiced since ancient times. The first ocular prostheses were made by Roman and Egyptian priests as early as the fifth century B.C. In those days, artificial eyes were made of painted clay attached to cloth and worn outside the socket.
It took many centuries for the first in-socket artificial eyes to be developed. At first, these were made of gold with colored enamel. Then, in the later part of the sixteenth century, the Venetians started making artificial eyes out of glass. These early glass eyes were crude, uncomfortable to wear, and very fragile. Even so, the Venetians continued making them and kept their methods secret until the end of the eighteenth century. After that, the center for artificial eye-making shifted to Paris for a time; but by the mid-nineteenth century, German glass-blowers had developed superior techniques, and the center for glass eye-making moved to Germany.
Shortly thereafter, glass eye-making was introduced in the United States. During World War II, the imported German glass used for glass prostheses became unavailable in this country. As a result of this shortage, the U.S. Government, in conjunction with a number of American firms, popularized the techniques for making artificial eyes out of acrylic plastic.
The popularity of this method has continued to increase over the years, and today the vast majority of patients wear ocular prostheses made of acrylic.
What's the difference between "stock" and "custom" eyes?
"Stock" or "ready-made" ocular prostheses are mass-produced. Since a "stock eye" is not made for any particular person, it doesn't’t fit any particular patient. A "custom" ocular prosthesis, on the other hand, is made by your Ocular Prosthetist to fit you and you alone.
How often do you have to see an ocular prosthetist?
The ocular prosthesis, like hard contact lenses, needs to be polished regularly in order to restore the acrylic finish and insure the health of the surrounding tissues. It is generally recommended that infants under 3 years of age be seen every 3 months; patients under 9 twice yearly, and all other patients at least once a year. Eyes should be replaced every 3-5 years for hygienic reasons.
How much does an artificial eye cost?
The majority of cases being covered by insurance and/or medicare. It should be understood that it is very difficult for any ocular prosthetist to quote a fee without first examining the patient. The majority of ocular prosthetist offer the initial consultation visit without obligation and the charges will be explained at the time of your consultation visit.
Does medical insurance pay for artificial eyes?
YES! Medicare and Insurances cover an allowed amount.
Can artificial eye have good movement?
Present day surgical techniques have been developed in the area of ocular motility implants. Today’s artificial eye can move simultaneously with the imbedded implant onto which an impression is taken, so that the prostheses fits against the face of the implant or is peg connected into the implant . This technique achieves the greatest movement possible.
Will I be able to Drive? - Driving and Depth Perception
With the loss of an eye, your depth perception is greatly affected. Objects that are closer than 15 feet will be more difficult to adjust to than those of greater distance.
Close work can be frustrating, but with practice and persistence in your compensation,you will learn to adjust for the loss in your perception. You can exercise certain moves to learn your distant adjustments and with little time you will know your parameters.
During your driving, never tailgate and be extra cautious of your peripheral visions ,especially when backing up you vehicle.
Dual mirrors are a great help and are required by law in cases of eye loss. Learn to depend on their use.
Your Ocular Prosthesis and Sports
An Ocular Prosthesis can generally be worn in the actvities of sports without fear of being dislodged such as running, aerobics, football, softball and baseball, basketball, golf, tennis and so on.
However in swimming it is advisable to use goggles to prevent dislodging due to rubbing water off of you face. You can easily dislodge the prosthesis when diving from a high surface to the water. Scuba diving is also acceptable as you would be wearing a mask and this will protct the prosthesis.
Many ear wearers carry a spare when they participate in sports to insure against loss. It is advisable to rinse the socket after swimming to clear the your eye socket from any residue such as salt and chemicals that are always in the water. Wash the prosthesis with soap and water and rinse.
Formerly of Mager & Gougelmann, Inc.