FAQS
Is an ocularist a doctor
An ocularist is not a doctor. An ocularist specializes in the fitting and fabrication of custom ocular prosthetics, and they should be board certified by national examining board of ocularists.
What is an ocular prosthesis made of?
An ocular prosthesis is made of polymethylmathacrilate (pmma): which is a medical grade acrylic (plastic) that is very durable and hygienic
Will my insurance cover my ocular prosthesis?
Most insurance plans cover ocular prosthetics and related services. Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans cover our services. An artificial eye is considered durable medical equipment/prosthetics. Your outpatient medical policy covers ocular prosthetic services—not your vision plan.
Our billing specialist, Mary will answer any insurance questions you may have. She has more than 10 years of experience in this office. She will contact your insurance plan directly to confirm coverage for your ocular prosthesis and start any authorizations & referrals required by your plan.
CAN I STILL DO THE SAME ACTIVITIES I USED TO, AFTER I START WEARING MY OCULAR PROSTHESIS?
Wearing an ocular prosthesis will not inhibit you from any of your activities. The custom design of your ocular prosthesis is fabricated to fit as securely as possible. Most all patients are able to achieve a level of comfort and security that allows them to have piece of mind in their daily routine.
WILL I HAVE MOVEMENT WITH MY OCULAR PROSTHESIS?
Motility is dependent upon many factors (ie. the health of the tissue, cause of eye loss, the placement of an orbital implant and the surgical technique) our goal is to achieve the maximum amount of motility in every case.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY?
We typically see patients 4 weeks after their surgery to replace the postoperative conformer with a custom designed conformer. The new design will aid in healing and better prepare the socket for the fitting of the final ocular prosthesis. This 4 week appointment is an opportunity to answer all your questions. The fitting and fabrication of the custom ocular prosthesis is typically completed between 6-8 weeks post-op.
HOW LONG WILL AN OCULAR PROSTHESIS LAST?
The american society of ocularist estimates life of an ocular prosthesis to be 3-7 years. Wearing an ocular prosthesis longer can harm the socket, rather than provide the hygienic benefits intended.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REMOVE AND CLEAN MY OCULAR PROSTHESIS?
Patients should remove their custom ocular prosthesis on average once each month for cleaning. In some cases more frequent cleanings may be necessary. We recommend the use of baby shampoo or a mild dish soap such as ivory or dawn with warm to hot water. Make sure to rinse the prosthesis well after cleaning and reinsert wet. Never use alcohol or other solvents as these products can damage the prosthesis. Antibacterial soaps are not recommended.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I HAVE MY OCULAR PROSTHESIS CHECKED BY MY OCULARIST?
The american society of ocularists recommends that an ocular prosthesis be checked and polished every 6 months, to restore the acrylic surface to a proper finish and ensure the health of the surrounding tissue. Only a trained ocularist should resurface your prothesis.
SHOULD I STILL HAVE REGULAR EXAMS WITH MY OPHTHAMOLOGIST OR OPTOMETRIST?
Yes, annual check-ups with your ophthalmologist or optometrist are always recommended
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY REMAINING EYE?
We strongly recommend to wear protective eye glasses with polycarbonite lenses fulltime to protect the remaining eye. Even when a prescription is not needed. Protective eye wear also minimizes the amount of dust or irritants from collecting on the surface of your ocular prosthesis. And prevent dryness within your socket.
DOES IT HURT?
Nothing involved in the fitting and fabrication process for your ocular prosthesis should be painful.
WHAT RISKS COME FROM WEARING AN OCULAR PROSTHESIS LONGER THAN THE RECOMMENDED LIFESPAN?
Over time, an ocular prosthesis becomes porous, scratched and or scuffed and allows fat and mucus discharge to readily adhere to the ocular prosthesis surface. Any texture on the prosthesis causes inflammation of the delicate mucus membrane of the socket. Coupled with bacteria already present in the socket the potential of infection and possible contraction increase. Over the years, patients also can have physiological changes causing significant changes to the socket tissue warranting a complete revision.