Prosthetic Eye Insertion and Removal Guide

Important Safety Notes
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the prosthesis. Work over a soft towel or padded surface to protect the eye if dropped. Follow your ocularist’s specific instructions, as techniques can vary based on your prosthesis fit and socket. Practice in front of a mirror. A suction cup makes handling easier for many people. Stop immediately and contact your ocularist or doctor if you feel pain, irritation, or if the prosthesis does not seat properly. Clean the prosthesis only as needed using warm water or mild baby shampoo, then rinse thoroughly. Professional polishing is recommended on a regular schedule.

Insertion

Key Tip for Insertion: Look down during the process. This helps relax the muscles, aids proper positioning, and makes it easier to slide the prosthesis under the upper lid.

With Fingers

1. Hold the prosthesis horizontally with the pointed nasal end toward your nose.
2. Look down. Use your index finger to gently lift the upper eyelid.
3. Slide the top curved edge of the prosthesis under the upper lid.
4. Release the upper lid while pulling down the lower lid with your other finger.
5. Blink several times so the prosthesis settles into place.

With Suction Cup

1. Squeeze the suction cup handle and press it firmly onto the front iris surface of the prosthesis.
2. Look down. Lift the upper lid with your index finger and slide the top edge under it.
3. Release the upper lid, then pull down the lower lid to seat the bottom.
4. Squeeze the handle to release the suction cup.
5. Blink to adjust.

Removal

With Fingers

1. Pull down the lower eyelid with your index finger until you can see the bottom edge of the prosthesis.
2. Look up and gently tilt or slide the prosthesis out over the lower lid.
3. Catch it with your free hand.

With Suction Cup

1. Moisten the open end of the suction cup, squeeze the handle, and attach it firmly to the front iris surface.
2. Pull down the lower lid. Look up while gently tilting the prosthesis up and out over the lower lid.
3. Release the suction once the prosthesis is removed.

Quick Tips

• The prosthesis is held in place only by your eyelids.
• Store it safely when not worn. Do not wrap it in tissue that could be accidentally discarded.
• Use lubricants made specifically for prosthetic eyes if you experience dryness.
• Visit your ocularist regularly for fit checks, polishing, and replacements (typically every 5 years).