Polishing & Resurfacing

Artificial eyes and scleral cover shells need diligent care, cleaning, and maintenance to extend their life and protect you from eye irritation and infections. An essential part of maintenance includes polishing and resurfacing at United Ocular in Midvale, Utah. The skilled professionals specialize in ocular prostheses, providing long-term care to ensure your health and appearance. Schedule a routine polishing and resurfacing today by booking online or calling the office.

What is polishing and resurfacing for prosthetic eyes?

Polishing and resurfacing are two techniques to keep your ocular prosthesis (artificial eyes and scleral cover shells) clean and in optimal condition.

As you wear your eye prosthesis, substances like salt and proteins build up on the surface. Fungal organisms can also accumulate, potentially leading to a dangerous infection.

Your United Ocular provider uses specialized tools to carefully remove thick, crusty, and irritating buildups. The team also polishes the prosthetic to refresh its appearance.

Since prostheses are acrylic, they eventually develop scratches. Scratches may only affect your appearance. However, they can also make your prosthetic uncomfortable. Polishing and resurfacing solve that problem.

Can I help with polishing and resurfacing?

Taking care of your prosthesis at home can significantly extend its lifespan. Your United Ocular provider teaches you how to remove and clean your artificial eye or scleral cover shell. They’re also available to help when you have questions.

However, the best way to preserve your prosthesis is by scheduling follow-up appointments. You may need professional polishing and resurfacing as often as every six months to maintain the acrylic surface.

Regular visits also allow your provider to evaluate changes in the eye socket that might affect the fit of your artificial eye or scleral cover shell.

The frequency of follow-up appointments varies depending on age. The American Society of Ocularists recommends that children under three years be seen every three months and children under nine should visit every six months.

Everyone older than nine can usually schedule yearly appointments. But your United Ocular provider may recommend more frequent visits if your prosthesis is new or they notice problems like changes in eye tissues.

How will I know my ocular prosthetics need polishing and resurfacing?

You’ll probably develop symptoms if you wait too long between maintenance appointments. Your eyelids may get itchy and irritated, you may have a discharge from your eye, or the socket may become red and swollen. You may also notice a change in your eye’s appearance.

Caring for your prostheses extends their life, so don’t wait to schedule an appointment. Use online booking or call United Ocular today.