Prosthetic Eye (Ocular Prosthesis) in Arizona

Restoring Confidence and Wholeness

Losing an eye can feel overwhelming—physically, emotionally, and cosmetically. But at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, we believe your story doesn’t end there. Our mission is to help you look, feel, and live with confidence again, using advanced techniques and personalized care that restore both appearance and peace of mind.

We understand that eye loss is more than a medical condition — it’s deeply personal. Our compassionate team takes time to listen, guide, and reassure, ensuring every patient feels supported through every phase of healing.

Close-up of an eye illustrating why you keep seeing spots due to floaters

What Is a Prosthetic Eye?

A prosthetic eye (also called an ocular prosthesis) is a custom-made artificial eye designed to restore the natural appearance and symmetry of the face after the loss of an eye. Made from medical-grade acrylic or silicone, each prosthesis is individually crafted and hand-painted to match your healthy eye with remarkable realism.

Although prosthetic eyes do not restore sight, they help maintain socket health, protect delicate tissues, and — most importantly — restore your confidence and sense of normalcy.

What to Expect At Your Consultation

1

Review Your History

Your visit begins with a detailed review of your medical and surgical history, including the reason for eye loss or damage. The ocularist or surgeon will examine your socket and current prosthesis (if you have one) to assess comfort, fit, and tissue health.

2

Discuss Surgical & Prosthetic Options

You’ll learn about available prosthetic options—such as full ocular prostheses or scleral shells—and when surgery or revision might be beneficial. The specialist will explain the design, color matching, movement potential, and care involved for your specific case.

3

Answer Questions & Meet Your Ocularist

Your provider will address all concerns and outline what to expect during fitting, polishing, and long-term maintenance.

4

Receive a Roadmap Tailored To Your Goals

Before you leave, you’ll receive a step-by-step plan covering next appointments, healing timelines, and follow-up visits. This roadmap ensures you know exactly what happens before, during, and after your prosthetic fitting or surgery.

Schedule Consultation

Our patients come to us with a shared goal — to feel like themselves again. Whether you’ve lost an eye due to trauma, disease, or surgery, you deserve expert care that honors your story and helps you move forward with confidence.

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How a Prosthetic Eye Is Made and Fitted

Surgical Foundation

If eye removal is necessary (via enucleation or evisceration), your surgeon places an orbital implant beneath the eyelids. This acts as a foundation that allows natural movement and supports the cosmetic prosthesis.

Custom Impression

After healing (typically 6–8 weeks), your ocularist takes a mold of your socket to ensure a perfect fit for comfort and appearance.

Hand-Painted Precision

The iris and sclera are carefully painted by hand to mirror the natural color, pattern, and depth of your existing eye — capturing even subtle details like light reflection and fine red vessels.

Fitting and Follow Up

Once the prosthesis is complete, it’s fitted, polished, and adjusted for optimal comfort and alignment. Annual polishing helps maintain clarity, color, and hygiene.

If eye removal is necessary (via enucleation or evisceration), your surgeon places an orbital implant beneath the eyelids. This acts as a foundation that allows natural movement and supports the cosmetic prosthesis.

After healing (typically 6–8 weeks), your ocularist takes a mold of your socket to ensure a perfect fit for comfort and appearance.

The iris and sclera are carefully painted by hand to mirror the natural color, pattern, and depth of your existing eye — capturing even subtle details like light reflection and fine red vessels.

Once the prosthesis is complete, it’s fitted, polished, and adjusted for optimal comfort and alignment. Annual polishing helps maintain clarity, color, and hygiene.

Caring for and Cleaning Your Ocular Prosthesis

Proper care and maintenance of your ocular prosthesis are essential for long-term comfort, hygiene, and overall eye socket health. Follow these steps regularly to keep your artificial eye in optimal condition.

Daily Cleaning Instructions

Prepare Your Space. Always clean your prosthetic eye in a clean, well-lit area. Cover the sink or use a towel to prevent accidental drops or loss down the drain.
Wash Your Hands. Before handling your ocular prosthesis, wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and a gentle soap.
Use Mild Soap and Water. Clean the prosthesis using a mild, non-irritating soap such as baby shampoo. Avoid harsh chemicals. Gently rub the prosthetic eye between your palms to remove debris from all surfaces.
Addressing Deposits or Cloudiness. If the prosthesis has noticeable film or buildup, gently wipe the surface with a warm, soft cloth. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the eye.
Rinse Thoroughly and Reinsert. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. There’s no need to dry the eye; moisture aids in reinsertion. This is also a great time to apply lubricating eye drops if needed. Many patients use lubricants like Systane Ultra, Refresh Optive, Refresh Liquigel, or Sil-Ophtho to improve comfort and reduce dryness.

Professional Polishing & Maintenance

Over time, your ocular prosthesis may become dull or accumulate micro-scratches and protein deposits. These changes can reduce comfort, affect lubrication, and increase eyelid and surrounding tissue irritation.

Regular professional polishing—recommended every 3 to 6 months—is essential for:

Maintaining the prosthesis’s smooth surface and cosmetic appearance
Preventing chronic inflammation and discomfort
Reducing discharge caused by irritation
Preserving the health of your eye socket and eyelids

During a polishing appointment, your ocularist will evaluate the condition and fit of your custom prosthetic eye, checking for any signs of complications or the need for adjustments.

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Schedule Your Consultation

Take the next step toward restoring your appearance and confidence. We’re here to help. Schedule your consultation today at one of our convenient Arizona locations — and rediscover how good it feels to look like yourself again.

Schedule Online Call (602) 955-1000