Definitions

SURGICAL CONFORMER

A clear acrylic prosthesis approximating to the size and shape of an empty socket, for use immediately following enucleation or evisceration (available in 3 sizes). Special conformers are available for babies and young children.

HALF SPHERE

An acrylic prosthesis cut from a standard pre-formed shape selected from a stock supply which is shaped and polished to fit the patient’s socket. This prosthesis is often used as a temporary artificial eye after enucleation whilst the socket heals and prior to the provision of a bespoke prosthesis.

SPECIAL HALF SPHERE

An acrylic prosthesis cut from a standard pre-formed shape which has been manufactured and painted specifically for that patient, to match as closely as possible to the natural eye; this is then shaped and polished to fit the patient’s socket. This is used as an alternative where, for various reasons, a custom made moulded eye is not considered to be an option at that time.

MOULD EYE

An acrylic custom-made prosthesis approximating to the unique shape obtained from an impression of the patient’s socket and hand painted to match the patient’s natural eye. This is the preferred artificial eye for most wearers.

COSMETIC SHELL

A thin acrylic custom-made prosthesis, designed to fit over a blind and damaged eye, which has been manufactured from an impression taken over the patient’s natural blind eye.  This is then painted to match as closely as possible to the natural eye colour.

IMPLANT

An implant is not an ocular prosthesis. It is a device which is inserted by the surgeon at the time of eye removal which compensates for the loss of volume in the socket.