Frequently Asked Questions

What is an ocular prosthesis made of?

An ocular prosthesis is made of plastic, not glass. It is made from a combination of clear and white plastic which is then custom-fabricated to fit the patient’s socket and match the colour of their sighted eye. We are dedicated to crafting the most life-like artificial eyes possible.

Are ocular prosthetics covered by Provincial Health Care?

While the majority of the cost for ocular prosthetic services is covered by the provincial health care, some services are not. Please inquire as to what your coverage is.

How long does it take to make an ocular prosthesis?

It can take 7-8 hours to fit and fabricate an ocular prosthesis. Some cases may take longer depending on the circumstances of their case.

Will it hurt to be fitted with an ocular prosthesis?

It does not hurt to be fitted with an ocular prosthesis, but the patient will experience some discomfort during the process.

Will my ocular prosthesis move?

Most ocular prosthetics will move to some degree. However, the amount of movement achieved will depend on many factors.

How should I care for my ocular prosthesis?

We recommend that patients use eye lubricants when required to obtain optimal comfort. Patients should not use alcohol-based products (such as hand sanitizer) to clean their artificial eyes. If they choose to remove it, we recommend using a liquid hand soap and warm water.

How long does an artificial eye last?

Adult patients should generally have their ocular prosthesis replaced every 5 years; however, if they have ocular surgery they may require a replacement sooner than that.

Children should generally have their prosthesis replaced once every 1-2 years to ensure their bony orbit expands at the same rate as their sighted eye.

Infants and toddlers need to be seen by the ocularist for build-ups, adjustments and replacements more frequently than children and adults. Please contact us for further information.