The process of making a custom facial prosthesis is a synergy of art and science. At the Center for Custom Prosthetics we are constantly improving our artistic and clinical/technical techniques to provide state of the art prosthetics. Skin like texture is sculpted in the prosthesis to replicate the patient, skin coloration are matched to blend perfectly to create a life like prosthesis.

Every patient is evaluated individually to determine the best method of retaining their custom made prosthesis. The prosthesis when in place has to be comfortable and secure. Retention methods for nasal, orbital and ear prostheses include the use of medical grade adhesives, anatomically self retained, attachment to glasses or the use of bone anchored implants with magnetic retention.

A prosthesis will degrade after time due to use. This is a normal process due to absorption of fluids or other environmental substances which will cause a color change. This usually occurs in approximately 6 mos. to 3 years, depending on the type of prosthesis.  Care and maintenance is very important to the well being of custom prosthesis.

“Stock” or “ready-made” ocular prostheses are mass-produced. Since a “stock eye” is not made for any particular person, it doesn’t fit any particular patient. A “custom” ocular prosthesis, on the other hand, is made by your Ocular Prosthetist to fit you and you alone.

The ocular prosthesis, like hard contact lenses, needs to be polished regularly in order to restore the acrylic finish and insure the health of the surrounding tissues. It is generally recommended that infants under 3 years of age be seen every 3 months; patients under 9 twice yearly, and all other patients at least once a year. Eyes should be replaced every 3-5 years for hygienic reasons.

The majority of cases being covered by insurance and/or medicare. It should be understood that it is very difficult for any ocular prosthetist to quote a fee without first examining the patient. The majority of ocular prosthetist offer the initial consultation visit without obligation and the charges will be explained at the time of your consultation visit.

Medical insurance will cover the allowed amount, often obtaining required pre-authorizations and In-Network Gap exceptions. Our administrative staff takes care of all of this and billing as a courtesy to you.

Present day surgical techniques have been developed in the area of ocular motility implants. Today’s artificial eye can move simultaneously with the imbedded implant onto which an impression is taken, so that the prostheses fits against the face of the implant or is peg connected into the implant. However, a hghly-skilled and well-experiened Ocularist, as Raymond Peters is, obtaining a good and accurate fit, will achieve the same result.

With the loss of an eye, your depth perception is greatly affected. Objects that are closer than 15 feet will be more difficult to adjust to than those of greater distance.

Close work can be frustrating, but with practice and persistence in your compensation, you will learn to adjust for the loss in your perception. You can exercise certain moves to learn your distant adjustments and with little time you will know your parameters.

During your driving, never tailgate and be extra cautious of your peripheral visions ,especially when backing up you vehicle.
Dual mirrors are a great help and are required by law in cases of eye loss. Learn to depend on their use.

An Ocular Prosthesis can generally be worn in the activities of sports without fear of being dislodged such as running, aerobics, football, softball and baseball, basketball, golf, tennis and so on.

However in swimming it is advisable to use goggles to prevent dislodging due to rubbing water off of you face. You can easily dislodge the prosthesis when diving from a high surface to the water. Scuba diving is also acceptable as you would be wearing a mask and this will protect the prosthesis.

Many ear wearers carry a spare when they participate in sports to insure against loss. It is advisable to rinse the socket after swimming to clear the your eye socket from any residue such as salt and chemicals that are always in the water. Wash the prosthesis with soap and water and rinse.

We are located in Naples and Miami which is in the beautiful SouthWest and southeast of Florida. Patients enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city combined with the beautiful beaches.

Most eye physicians are of the opinion that artificial eyes can be worn continually and need only be removed for cleaning purposes. However, the eye physician should be consulted in each particular case.

For cleansing the artificial eye we recommend water and a mild soap, or any prescription that may be recommended by an individual doctor for the purpose of cleaning the eye. In the case of plastic eyes, the use of alcohol or other chemicals should not be employed in washing or cleaning the eye.