What is an artificial eye?
An artificial eye, also called a prosthetic eye, is a custom-fit, acrylic (plastic) device that fits in the eye socket after the live eye has been surgically removed (enucleation) and an implant has been surgically inserted. If the implant has movement, then the artificial eye should move some as well. Artificial eyes are hand-painted to match the companion eye. Artificial eyes made in the U.S. are not glass eyes.
What is a scleral shell?
A scleral shell is an eye prosthesis that sits on top of and completely covers a live eye that has gone blind and become unsightly. The eye has to have shrunk in size and not be sensitive in order to wear a scleral shell.
How long will my appointment be for a new prosthesis?
It takes approximately seven hours for a prosthesis to be made. In most cases the prosthesis will be finished at the end of the appointment. There will be two, two-hour long breaks where it is not necessary for the patient to be in the office. Follow up appointments might be needed for adjustments.
What is an expansion conformer?
An expansion conformer is a clear acrylic shape that is custom fit to the eye socket. It is designed to gently facilitate the expansion of the soft tissues of the socket. If the tissue expands, then progressively larger conformers are placed in the socket. The goal is to try to expand the tissue enough so that an artificial eye can be fabricated and successfully worn.
Will you take an impression of my socket?
For adults, an impression will be taken in most cases. For children, an impression is usually not taken initially. A thorough examination of the socket and good cooperation is needed for an impression to be successful. This is usually not possible with children at the beginning. As they get more comfortable in our office and with wearing a prosthesis, an impression can be taken later. The process of taking an impression is not uncomfortable and the impression material will set up in about one minute.