ATIFICIAL EYES PER PIECE

Artificial eyes, also known as ocular prostheses or cosmetic eye prosthetics, are custom-made devices designed to replace a natural eye that has been lost due to injury, disease, or congenital conditions. While they do not restore vision, artificial eyes can provide a realistic cosmetic appearance and help improve the patient's quality of life.

Key Features of Artificial Eyes:

1. Custom Fit: Each artificial eye is individually crafted to fit the unique shape of the patient's eye socket (orbital cavity) and match the appearance of the remaining natural eye. This custom fitting ensures comfort and aesthetic harmony.

2. Materials: Modern artificial eyes are usually made from materials like acrylic or silicone, which are lightweight, durable, and biocompatible. These materials allow for a natural look and feel.

3. Realistic Appearance: The prosthetic eye is often painted and finished to resemble the natural iris and sclera (the white part of the eye) as closely as possible. Many practitioners use techniques to mimic the details of a natural eye, including colors, veins, and textures.

4. Retention Systems: Artificial eyes can be held in place using various methods, including:

   • Anatomical retention: The shape of the eye socket holds the prosthesis in place.
   • Surgical implants: In some cases, an implant is placed in the eye socket, which can help retain the prosthetic eye more securely.

5. Maintenance: Artificial eyes require regular cleaning and care. Patients are often instructed on how to care for their prosthesis, including how to clean it and when to see an ocularist (a specialist who makes artificial eyes) for adjustments or replacements.

6. Follow-Up Care: After receiving an artificial eye, follow-up appointments are often necessary to ensure the prosthetic fits properly and functions well within the socket.

Common Uses:

• Post-Enucleation: Patients who have undergone enucleation (removal of the eye) due to trauma, tumors, or other medical reasons often receive artificial eyes to restore facial symmetry and appearance.
• Congenital Anomalies: Some individuals may be born with eye abnormalities or microphthalmia (underdeveloped eyes) that necessitate the use of a prosthetic eye.
• Cosmetic Restoration: People who have lost one or both eyes may choose to have artificial eyes for aesthetic reasons to improve their self-esteem and social interactions.

Types of Artificial Eyes:

1. Ocular Prostheses: These are designed specifically to replace the appearance of a natural eye.
2. Scleral Shells: In cases where the eye remains but needs coverage, a scleral shell can be used to cover the existing eye and improve its appearance.
3. Custom-Made Lenses: In some cases, patients may opt for custom contact lenses to enhance the look of their remaining eye or address other vision-related issues.

Psychological and Social Impact:

• Receiving an artificial eye can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being and social interactions, providing a sense of normalcy and helping them engage more fully with their community.