The science as well as the artistry involved in the making of prosthetic eyes continues to advance each year. While the original prosthetic eyes were made from available materials such as wood and clay, modern prosthetics combine the latest advancements in both technology, as well as artistic realism. In fact, most people have a hard time distinguishing a modern prosthetic eye from a natural eye.

This is because modern prosthetic eyes are made from acrylic plastics which closely resemble the texture of natural eyes. However, while prosthetic eyes may look like natural eyes, the reality is that they require constant care, cleaning, and lubrication. If you have a prosthetic eye, you will have surely received detailed instructions on the correct procedure to care for and clean your eye from your Ocularist.

While cleaning and caring for your prosthetic eye is extremely important, it is also vital that you properly lubricate your eye. Without proper lubrication, the prosthetic will become uncomfortable as well as shorten the overall life span of the implant.

The Importance of Silicone in Prosthetic Eye Lubricants

Silicone is the single most important ingredient in an effective artificial eye lubricant. This is because silicone is essentially water that will not dry. Comparatively, water-based lubricants dry out quickly which then leads those that wear prosthetic eyes to feel discomfort in addition to requiring a constant reapplication of the lubricant.

Silicone, on the other hand, will never fully dry which will allow those that choose a silicone prosthetic eye lubricant to feel comfortable all day without having to constantly apply lubrication.

If you have a prosthetic eye, and are looking for a high-quality prosthetic eye lubricant, take the time to read the list of ingredients for each potential choice to ensure that the product is silicone based.

Discussing Artificial Eye Lubrication with an Ocularist

If you have a prosthetic eye then you surely have a relationship with an Ocularist. This is because unlike other medical professionals including Ophthalmologists, Ocularists specialize in prosthetic eyes.

However, the next time you visit your Ocularist, you may want to ask about your options for lubricants. Sometimes, Ocularists have a relationship with a particular company, and may not be aware of every prosthetic eye lubrication product. This is why it is vital that you are proactive about your health. If you find a product that claims to be endorsed by Ocularists, ask your Ocularist if they recommend using that specific product.

The History of Prosthetic Eyes

In order to fully understand the importance of using a proper prosthetic eye lubricant, it is vital to understand the history of prosthetic eyes. The first known prosthetic eye was found in 2006 in Iran and belongs to a woman who lived between 2900 and 2800 BC.

Her prosthetic eye was made from paste and was covered with a thin layer of gold. A small thread was placed through the prosthetic to hold it in place.

Since that time, remarkable advances have been made in the field of prosthetic eyes, but none were quite as remarkable as that very first artificial eye.

If you are wearing a prosthetic eye now or know someone who does, take a moment to think about the comfort level of the first women and men who wore prosthetic eyes. Imagine the irritation they felt as well as the infections they surely experienced.

Having this perspective will hopefully help you understand the importance of properly lubricating a prosthetic eye.