How To Get a Prosthetic Eye: A Gift for Yourself or a Loved One

Some gifts come and go. Others create a lasting impact. After losing an eye, maybe you’re looking for a gift that will spark confidence, hope, and a renewed sense of joy. Perhaps you’re thinking about giving yourself or a loved one a new prosthetic eye, but you have questions.

Where do I start? 

Who do I talk to?

What does the process look like?

At Carolina Eye Prosthetics, we’d like to help you feel empowered as you consider this decision. Below, you’ll find the answers to your questions, plus valuable resources on how to get a prosthetic eye.

Step 1: Consult Your Provider

Your first step toward getting an artificial eye is to consult a doctor. Some patients will have this process immediately after evisceration or enucleation. But if this isn’t the case for you, it’s best to ask your physician about considering a prosthetic eye.

Depending on your or your loved one’s condition, the doctors to ask about this can vary. Some talk to their ophthalmologist, eye surgeon, or primary care physician. They will either refer you to a prosthetic eye provider, an eye health center, or another physician to further assess if you’re the right fit for an artificial eye.

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment

Once you receive the go-signal to receive prosthetic eye services, you may start setting up an appointment with an ocularist. At Carolina Eye Prosthetics, we prioritize hospitality! You can expect these things as you begin the process of getting a prosthetic eye:

• Fitting: Our ocularists will check in with you, making you feel comfortable before we start the fitting procedure. We’ll build a personalized wax model of your prosthetic eye that will serve as a base during painting and sculpting.
• Break: After your fitting session, you’ll have the chance to take a break. Many of our patients enjoy exploring the shops and restaurants in the charming downtown of Burlington, NC.
• Painting: This is where your artificial eye starts to take shape — our ocularists will work on specific details such as contours and colors.
• Curing: Once all the details are set, the curing process begins. You may take another 1-2 hour break to relax and wait for your prosthetic eye to dry.
• Delivery: You’ll get your new prosthetic eye! From fitting to delivery, our personalized, same-day service is one of the many reasons patients choose Carolina Eye Prosthetics.

Step 3: Follow-Up and Next Steps

After receiving your new prosthetic eye, you’ll be given the next steps for follow-ups, polishes, cleanings, and maintenance. At Carolina Eye Prosthetics, we want to make you feel comfortable and confident with your customized artificial eye or scleral shell. Your ocularist will also allow you time to ask additional questions, and we’ll help you set up a schedule for your next appointment.

Ready To Know More?

There’s no better gift than knowing that you’ve made an impact on someone’s life. As you consider giving yourself or a loved one a new prosthetic eye, we’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Schedule a free consultation at 1-877-763-9393 or through our easy contact form.