• info@arnold-greiner.de
Contact

Artificial eye made of plastic

“Artistic Precision with Experience”

In certain cases, it is advantageous to choose an artificial eye made of plastic instead of glass. This is particularly sensible when there is a higher risk of a glass prosthesis breaking, such as for children, blind individuals, or people with limited gripping ability. Additionally, medical reasons may also justify opting for a plastic prosthesis. The decision is made individually for each patient.

Information on Artificial Eyes Made of Plastic

Our artificial eyes made of plastic are crafted from bio-certified polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

Removing and Inserting the Artificial Eye

In most cases, the shape of an artificial eye resembles a triangle. The lower part of the prosthesis is almost “straight,” forming the base of the triangle. For better orientation, the upper part of the eye does not include any veining. This surface is white.

Removal

The best way is to use your thumb (nail side down) to press the lower eyelid edge down so that you can slide the tip of your thumb under the edge of the artificial eye. At the same time, use your index finger to grasp the eye from above and then remove it using a tweezer grip.
A suction cup or a special glass rod can also be used as an additional aid. (Both are available from us)

Insertion

Moisten the eye with warm water. Pull the upper eyelid upwards with one handA suction cup or a special glass rod can also be used as an additional aid. (Both are available from us)

and use your other hand to push the artificial eye as far up as possible under the eyelid.

Hold the eye in this position! Now let go of the upper eyelid and pull the lower eyelid down slightly so that the eye can slide behind the lower eyelid.

How Do I Clean My Artificial Eye?

  • In general, you can and should wear the artificial eye both day and night. In most cases, it cleans itself through blinking and tear fluid.
  • Of course, you may remove the artificial eye for cleaning. However, avoid leaving the eye socket unprotected for an extended period, such as overnight or for several days, as the conjunctiva may shrink due to dryness.
  • You can clean the prosthesis either by removing it or by gently wiping it with a damp cotton pad while it is in place.
  • If you have incomplete eyelid closure, harder deposits may form, potentially irritating the eyelid margins. These should be removed with warm water.
  • Artificial eyes made of plastic must not come into contact with alcohol-based disinfectants. Suitable options include Octenisept or warm water with liquid soap.

What should be done if a correction of the ocular prosthesis is necessary?

  • If you wish to have your prosthesis corrected, please contact us.
  • A correction of a plastic prosthesis is possible up to three years after its fabrication.

When should I have my artificial eye renewed?

  • We recommend having your plastic prosthesis polished annually.
  • A complete renewal is generally recommended after five to seven years.
  • If you notice changes to your plastic eye, such as volume alterations, after three years of use, a new prosthesis will be necessary.
  • Cost carriers cover the expense of a new artificial eye every five years. In exceptional cases, such as changes in the eye socket, additional reimbursement may be provided.

Shaping from Plastic

For the fitting of a plastic artificial eye, you should plan for up to two treatment days.

Unlike the fabrication of a glass prosthesis, the shape of a plastic prosthesis is determined using an impression of your eye socket, made with a plant-based alginate.

Your iris color is individually painted for you in your presence using natural color pigments.
In this process, we pay attention not only to the exact color reproduction but also to parameters such as nevi, special pigmentation, structures, and pupil size.
Iris Painting
Subsequently, the shape and color are combined in a two-hour process in our laboratory.
After the shape and color have been combined, the material is hardened under pressure for about 1 hour
After the shape and color have been combined, the material is hardened under pressure for about 1 hour
The shape is then sanded​
Subsequently, we adjust the veining to match your natural eye (if present).
The entire prosthesis is covered with a clear, crystal-clear plastic layer in an additional two-hour process to create a natural depth effect.
Finally, the plastic ocular prosthesis is polished to a high gloss and inserted.
Finally, the plastic ocular prosthesis is polished to a high gloss and inserted.
The artificial eye made of plastic is ready.