Ocular prostheses are considered to be the treasure of the ophthalmic industry because they can help those people who lost their eyes to any kind of injury, accident, or infection. Usually, eyes are considered to be one of the beauty accessories of the face in that case when an individual loses their eyes it creates emotional stress and makes them lose their self-confidence but this ocular prosthesis could fix them by maintaining the natural eye appearance. When one decides to get an ocular prosthesis the most common considerations of them are its durability and susceptibility to damage. To make it clear this blog will explore the durability of ocular prostheses, factors that could lead to damage, and how to care for and maintain these devices to ensure their longevity.
What is an ocular prosthesis made of?
When you are interested in knowing the durability of the ocular prosthesis there understanding the materials used in ocular prostheses is key. Those modern ocular prostheses are made from medical-grade acrylic, it is a type of plastic that is both strong and lightweight so a person wearing it won’t feel heavy. Acrylic is preferred because it is biocompatible, meaning it does not react adversely with body tissues, and it can be easily shaped and colored to closely match the patient’s natural eye.
The front portion of the prosthesis is hand-painted which is to replicate the appearance of the natural eye in everything, including the iris, sclera, and any blood vessels. A clear, protective coating is applied over the paint to protect it from damage and to provide a smooth, polished surface.
Durability of an ocular prosthesis
Generally, these ocular prostheses are designed to be durable and in the way of it can last for many years with proper care. However, like any medical device, they are not indestructible. But their durability depends on several factors which include,
- The high-quality medical-grade acrylic is known for its strength and resistance to wear. The materials used to manufacture them are designed specifically to withstand daily use, including the normal movements and blinking of the eyelid. However, inferior materials or poor craftsmanship may also lead to prostheses more prone to cracks, scratches, discoloration, and any other kind of damage.
- The most common cause of damage to an ocular prosthesis is daily wear and tear. Over time, the constant friction between the prosthesis and the eyelid can lead to the development of micro-scratches on the surface.
- Even though the acrylic from which the prosthesis is durable, still it breaks or chips when subjected to significant impact. Dropping the prosthesis onto a hard surface or accidentally hitting it with a sharp object can cause visible damage.
- Certain chemicals can damage the surface of an ocular prosthesis, for example, exposure to harsh cleaning agents, alcohol, or abrasive substances so it’s important to clean the prosthesis only with solutions recommended by your ocularist.
- Over time, even if you have provided them with the best care, an ocular prosthesis may wear down. The shape of the prosthesis may change due to gradual degradation of the material which leads to discomfort or a poor fit.
When to consider a replacement?
With diligent care, those ocular prosthesis's lifespan can be extended but still eventually need to be replaced. Based on the average life of a prosthesis it may last between five to seven years, but this can vary depending on factors like the wearer’s age, activity level, and adherence to care guidelines.
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An ocular prosthesis could be a durable and reliable solution for individuals who have lost an eye. While it is designed to withstand daily use, it is not immune to damage. By understanding the factors that can affect its durability and proper care guidelines, you can extend the life of your prosthesis and maintain its appearance. Anyhow regular check-ups with your ocularist from the best eye hospital like The Eye Foundation are essential they provide enough attention to any signs of damage to ensure that your prosthesis continues to serve you well.
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