Cleaning Your Artificial Eye: Best Practices for Optimal Care and Comfort

Regular cleaning and maintenance is vital for providing comfort, hygiene and longevity to the individuals with an artificial eye (ocular prosthesis). Taking proper care of the artificial eye helps in preventing infections, irritation and discomfort while keeping the prosthesis looking natural.

Why Regular Cleaning is Important

“Artificial eyes usually accumulate debris, protein buildup and dust over time. So neglecting hygiene usually leads to discomfort, inflammation and even infections like conjunctivitis. Cleaning the artificial eye on a regular basis keeps it clean, comfortable and free from any harmful bacteria,” answers Dr Sneha Shah, Ophthalmologist and Aesthetic Surgeon at Lilavati, Breach Candy hospital, Mumbai.

How Often Should You Clean Your Artificial Eye?

The frequency of cleaning the artificial eye mostly depends on the individual’s needs but it is generally advised to-

• Wiping: Clean the surface gently with a soft cloth once in 2 weeks to remove any debris.

• Deep cleansing: Remove and clean the prosthesis monthly with gentle soap and water to eliminate protein buildup.

• Professional cleaning: Visit your ocularist every 6-12 months for a deep clean and polishing to maintain the prosthesis’ smooth surface.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Artificial Eye

1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly : Make sure that you thoroughly wash your hands with antibacterial soap and dry them with a clean towel before touching your prosthesis. This helps in preventing the transfer of the bacteria and dirt to the eye socket.

2. Removing the Artificial Eye : When you remove the prosthesis for cleaning then make sure that it does not fall and use a suction cup device (if provided by your ocularist) or gently pull down the lower eyelid while tilting your head forward to release the prosthesis.

3. Cleaning the Prosthesis

• Rinse the artificial eye with sterile saline solution or warm water. Avoid tap water, as it might contain bacteria.

• Use a mild soap or a specialised prosthetic eye cleaner which is suggested by your ocularist.

• Gently rub the surface with a soft microfibre cloth or fingers to remove buildup.

• Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.

4. Drying and Replacing the Eye

• Dry the prosthesis with a lint-free cloth.

• To reinsert, lift your upper eyelid, place the upper edge of the prosthesis beneath it, and gently pull down the lower eyelid to secure it in place.

Additional Care Tips

• Avoid harsh chemicals: make sure that you never use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the artificial eye’s surface.

• Store properly: If you remove the prosthesis overnight, then keep it in a sterile container filled with saline or prescribed cleaning solution.

• Address irritation promptly: If you experience redness, dryness, or excessive discharge, consult your ocularist or eye doctor immediately.

When to Seek Professional Cleaning

Even with proper home care, professional cleaning is still extremely vital. An ocularist polishes the prosthesis to maintain it’s smoothness and prevents irritation. You should schedule a visit if you notice:

• Cloudiness or discolouration

• Persistent discomfort

• Increased mucus buildup

• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, or pain)

Conclusion

Cleaning your artificial eye regularly ensures optimal comfort, hygiene, and durability. By following these best practices, you can maintain a clear, irritation-free prosthesis while preventing complications. When in doubt, consult your ocularist for personalized care recommendations.