Prosthetic eyes are important not only to a patient’s appearance but also to their overall confidence. Getting your prosthetic properly fitted will have a huge impact on how you feel about yourself as you interact with others. There are a few different types of fitting methods that can be used. Your ocularist will consider many factors when choosing the best fitting method for you. Let’s look at the types of methods available to help you better understand which one might be best for you.
Empirical Fitting Method
This type of fitting is described as the observation method or the experienced observation method. This type of fitting is often used when a patient experiences eyelid anomalies. An eyelid anomaly would consist of malpositions such as outward-turning eyelid, inward-turning eyelid, or eyelid openings. When these types of anomalies are present, it is necessary that the prosthetic has specially designed shapes to manipulate the eyelid and cause it to function more normally.
Modified Impression Fitting Method
During a modified impression fitting, a soft mold is made of your socket to ensure that the prosthetic eye has a flush fitting. This helps to create symmetry in the eyelid. This type of fitting is accomplished by using a cool cream in a fitting tray. This cream will retrieve the eye socket shape precisely.
Other Considerations
Several factors go into the fitting of a prosthetic eye. One such factor will be any injuries to the eye socket or any surgery you may have done in the past, which can greatly affect the size and shape of the socket. These things need to be considered when fitting your new prosthetic eye.
A prosthetic eye will be a unique creation that is designed to complement your features and increase your confidence. Your ocularist will want to work closely with you and get your input to ensure that you are happy and comfortable with your new prosthetic eye.
Which Is Better?
Neither method is considered to necessarily be better than the other. It is usually the ocularist that will decide which method should be employed after evaluating your particular eye socket and eyelid. The ocularist will also consider your goals and lifestyle when deciding how to fit you for your prosthetic eye and which type of prosthetic will work best for you.
It is a good idea to educate yourself on these topics, though, so that you can take an active part in the decision-making process. The more involved you are in the process, the more confident you can feel about your new prosthetic.