Will my eye move?
Many people are surprised to find that an artificial eye can actually move.
In most cases of surgery when removing an eye the surgeon will insert an orbital implant into the socket. This ball shaped implant which is buried under the surface (you cannot see it) serves to replace the lost volume. This means the artificial eye made to fit the socket will often be lighter and thinner which helps gain better movement.
This obviously can vary from person to person depending on how they lost their eye in the first instance but usually there is some degree of movement. We always hope that the eye can attain what we call “conversational movement”. This is the small movements your eyes make when talking to someone rather than the extreme side to side and up and down movements.
How long does an artificial eye last?
There is no definitive answer to this question. Whilst we recommend someone have their artificial eye checked every year, this does not mean they need a new one each time!
Common reasons for replacing an artificial eye
Damage – a crack or chip which we are unable to simply repair. Or the material may have become worn or degraded over time.
Colour change – changes to the real eye or paint fade in the artificial eye may mean it no longer matches the fellow eye well.
Poor fit – surgical alteration or natural changes ie weight change can impact the fit of an eye.
Children usually need their artificial eye replaced more frequently as they are still growing. However adults who take good care of their eye and have no issues can wear their eye happily for many years.
Does having an artificial eye mean I am partially sighted?
In most cases no it does not, although it is easy to understand why people would presume this.
Often people who have only one eye have better eyesight in their remaining eye than people who have both eyes. If a person is struggling with their vision they will need to get a referral from their G.P. to an Ophthalmologist who will assess their eligibility for sight impairment registration. This is not something we can assess at the artificial eye clinic.
Can I swim with an artificial eye?
People do not have to give up swimming if they wear an artificial eye. However, we do advise wearing goggles. Especially if diving in a pool or sea swimming. If the eye happened to become dislodged the chances of finding it again are very slim!