6 Keys When Caring for a Prosthetic Eye

Have you just received your first prosthetic eye? 

Are you looking forward to getting one?

Receiving a prosthetic eye can be life changing. It can increase your confidence and give you a new perspective on life and the world around you. At Carolina Eye Prosthetics, we share in your excitement and anticipation. That is why we want to ensure that you know our best tips when caring for a prosthetic eye. We want you to keep your new prosthetic eye sparkling and healthy.

1. How to Clean Your Prosthetic Eye

Cleaning your prosthetic eye is relatively simple. You never want to rub your prosthetic eye with any cloth. The abrasiveness of even a soft fabric will make your prosthetic eye dull over time by wearing away the polished enamel. Instead, wash your eye with a mild, unscented soap and hot water solution. Ideally, you will want to do this once every two to three weeks.

It’s recommended that your prosthetic eye is professionally cleaned and polished at least twice a year. Regular polishing will keep it looking shiny and natural. Carolina Eye Prosthetics will keep your eye looking as amazing as it did the day you received it.

Never, under any circumstances, should you use harsh abrasive cleaners, disinfectants, or alcohol in the care of your prosthetic eye. These agents will considerably damage the materials used to make the eye and age it prematurely.

2. Removing Your Prosthetic Eye

Once your prosthetic eye is in the socket, most people find it can stay in for long periods of time. It’s best to keep your eye in as often as possible. Wearing your eye is healthy for the eye socket.  If you choose to remove it at night, your prosthetic eye can be kept in a glass of water, so it won’t dry out.

3. Handle Your Prosthetic Eye with Care

Ensure that while caring for your prosthetic eye, you always handle it with care. Use clean hands—just like you would handle contact lenses. And don’t forget… your eye socket is a mucus membrane. As we are now abundantly aware, it is critical to keep these areas free from germs, which can lead to infection.

4. Keeping Your New Eye Comfortable

There are a variety of lubricants that we can suggest based on individual needs which can be purchased at any pharmacy.

5. Don’t Forget Your Eyelids and Eyelashes

Your prosthetic eye and the socket are not the only areas where care and attention are needed. Your eyelashes and eyelids will also need to be kept free from mucus buildup. The protein buildup that occurs on lids and lashes can get into your eye or the socket when the prosthesis is not in place. So, be mindful of those areas around your eyes to avoid irritation.

6. Sports and Activities in the Water

Can’t wait to get back out on the boat or into your skis? There are a few precautions that you should take. For regular swimming, goggles are recommended when wearing a prosthetic eye. However, for more aggressive water sports such as skiing, diving, or wakeboarding, more care should be taken. Water pressure can dislodge your new prosthetic eye when submerged. So, taking out your prosthesis might be a safer bet to avoid loss or damage.

Get Care Guidance and Polishing from Our Team

At Carolina Eye Prosthetics, we spend a significant amount of time with our patients. We go the extra mile to make sure that your expectations are met, and you are happy with your new eye. We answer all questions and address all concerns.

Before leaving our clinic, you will know precisely how to remove and replace your new prosthetic eye. It may seem awkward at first, but in time it will be as simple as putting on a pair of glasses.

Carolina Eye Prosthetics offers eye polishing as well as care for any patient experiencing discomfort or other problems with prosthetic eye care. Contact us using our convenient online form or call us at 336-228-7877 to discuss your needs. If you are interested in a new prosthetic eye, call us to arrange a free consultation.