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What is ocularistry?
Ocularistry is the practice of manufacturing prosthetics for people who are missing one or both eyes.
Will my prosthetic eye look real?
Your prosthesis will move to some degree, but movement depends on several factors, including:
The condition of your eye muscles
The type of surgery you had
Whether an orbital implant is present
The health of the socket tissues
Most patients experience natural-looking movement, though it may not match the natural eye exactly
Is the process painful?
Most clients experience little to no discomfort during fittings and adjustments.
the basics
the process
the upkeep
How do I care for my prosthetic?
Proper care helps keep your prosthetic comfortable, natural-looking, and long-lasting. Your ocularist will give you specific instructions, but general care includes:
Removal and handling - most prosthetic eyes do not need to be removed daily. If removal is recommended, do so gently and over a soft surface to prevent damage if dropped
Cleaning the prosthetic - clean the prosthetic only as directed by your ocularist, using approved cleaners. Do not use alcohol, bleach, or household cleaners
Avoid harsh conditions - keep the prosthetic away from excessive heat, chemicals, and abrasive materials
Lubrication - use only ocularist- or physician-recommended lubricants or drops if dryness occurs
Professional polishing - have your prosthetic professionally cleaned and polished at recommended intervals (every 6 months in the Midwest) to maintain comfort and appearance
Monitor changes - contact your ocularist if you experience discomfort, increased discharge, redness, or if the prosthetic feels loose or tight
With proper care and regular follow-up visits, your prosthetic eye can remain comfortable and natural-looking for many years.
What are the different types of ocular prostheses?
There are several types, depending on your eye condition and medical history:
Custom ocular prosthesis - A hand-made prosthetic eye created specifically for your socket. This is the most common type and is designed to fit comfortably and support eyelid function
Scleral shell - A thin prosthesis that fits over a shrunken or non-functioning eye (such as in phthisis bulbi)
Conformer - A temporary device used after surgery to maintain the shape of the socket while healing occurs
Is an ocular prosthesis necessary?
Yes, very. An ocular prosthesis is considered medically necessary for multiple reasons. Here are a few:
Anatomical Shape - maintain the natural shape of the eye socket
Support - proper eyelid position and movement
Protection - for the tissues of the socket
Reduction - in discharge and irritation
Improvement - of facial symmetry and daily function
Prevention - of socket changes which can lead to discomfort or functional problems
Anatomical Growth - ensures proper growth and development of the orbital area in children
How is an ocular prosthesis made?
A custom ocular prosthesis is made through a clinical process that includes:
Fabrication of the prosthesis using medical-grade materials
Evaluation of the eye socket and eyelids
Hand painting and finishing to match the companion eye or
Fitting and adjustments to ensure comfort and stability
How long will it take to make my prosthesis?
Typically, the fitting process takes a few visits over several weeks to ensure perfect comfort.
How long will each appointment be?
Typically, the fitting process takes a few visits over several weeks to ensure perfect comfort.
Will my prosthetic move naturally?
Will my prosthesis cause any discomfort?
A properly fitted prosthesis should not be painful. However, you may experience:
Mild awareness during the adjustment period
Temporary irritation if the socket is dry or inflamed
Pain, persistent discomfort, or increased discharge are not normal and should be reported to your ocularist.
Is there anything I need to look out for?
Yes. Contact your ocularist if you notice:
Increased redness, swelling, or pain
Excessive discharge or odor
Sudden changes in fit or movement
Cracks, chips, or surface roughness
Difficulty keeping the prosthesis in place
Regular follow-up visits and professional polishing help prevent many of these issues.
What factors can impact my prosthetic?
Several factors can affect the comfort, appearance, and longevity of your ocular prosthesis, including:
Changes in the eye socket - healing, weight changes, scarring, or natural tissue changes over time can alter the fit
Tear production and discharge - dryness or increased discharge can affect comfort and cleanliness
Handling and hygiene - improper cleaning, dropping the prosthesis, or exposure to harsh chemicals can cause damage
Normal wear and aging - over time, the surface may dull or develop micro-scratches and may require polishing or replacement
Medical conditions - Infections, inflammation, allergies, or changes related to systemic health can impact how the prosthesis feels and fit
Trauma - accidental impact or excessive pressure can chip, crack, or dislodge the prosthesis
Follow-up care - Regular professional evaluations help ensure proper fit and early detection of issues
Routine care and scheduled visits with your ocularist help maintain comfort, appearance, and long-term function of your prosthetic eye.
If you want it to. There are two possibilities:
Traditional ocular prosthetic - individually handcrafted and hand-painted to replicate the details of your remaining eye, including the iris color, scleral tone, and subtle natural markings. When properly fitted, most people will not notice the prosthetic eye during everyday interactions. While no prosthetic can perfectly replicate a natural eye under all lighting or movement conditions, modern ocular prostheses are highly realistic and are intended to restore a natural, balanced appearance.
Non-traditional fashion prosthetic - artistic and fashion-focused prosthetics which feature artwork, layering, embedding, or tinting. Popular variations include embedding rhinestones/gems/diamonds, adding glow-in-the-dark tinting, animal eye replications, sentimental inclusions, and personal creations.
Our home
Nestled in a cozy corner of town, our clinic feels like a second home where care meets comfort.
address
926 Lee Street, Suite A
Des Plaines, IL 60016
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9:30 am - 1:30 pm
Closed
9:30 am - 1:30 pm
Closed
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Questions? Good! Reach out!
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info@famocu.com
(847) 827-0666
fax
(847) 827-6247