FAQs
Maybe you have a general question to which we can already give you an answer here?
If you don't find your question here or have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us directly – via contact form, by eMail to anfrageaugenkuenstler [dot] de, by fax to +49 (0)931-22653 or by telephone: +49 (0)931-24825.
We shall be pleased to help you.
My eye was removed by surgery. What happens after the operation?
After the removal of the eye you are first fitted with what is known as a conformer. This provisional measure is necessary in order to prevent any shrinkage of the conjunctiva during the healing process.
When will my first ocular prosthesis be made?
As a rule, the orbit has largely healed after between 2 and 6 weeks, so the first custom ocular prosthesis can be made for you.
My eye has gone blind. Can I wear a prosthesis even without having the eye removed?
Yes. The blind eye continues losing volume over time, so in most cases it is possible to mount what is known as a shell prosthesis on the eyeball. As opposed to a contact lens, this covers the entire visible part of the eyeball rather than just the iris.
Can other people see that I'm wearing an ocular prosthesis?
An ocular prosthesis is as a rule inconspicuous because the customization and fit mostly produces optimal results.
However, any external injuries which led to the loss of the eye can only be compensated to a certain extent by the ocular prosthesis.
Does my artificial eye move in the same way as the natural one?
This depends on a number of factors. Besides the cause behind the loss of your eye, the movement of the ocular prosthesis also depends on the proper functioning of the eye muscles.
Does wearing an ocular prosthesis place any restrictions on me?
Under normal circumstances you will not in any way be restricted by wearing an ocular prosthesis.
However, you should note the following in connection with the ocular prosthesis:
An allergy or a cold, for example, can cause a temporary swelling of the mucous membranes, which in turn can lead to intensified secretion. (If this lasts for a longer period of time, the ocular prosthesis might have to replaced due to wear of its surface.)
Visits to the sauna ought not to be concluded with an ice-cold shower since this could cause tension in the glass.
When at the swimming pool, wear swimming goggles and do not plunge into the water head-first because the resistance of the water could flush the ocular prosthesis out of the eye socket.
Divers are advised not to wear an ocular prosthesis when diving.
How should I clean my ocular prosthesis?
During the manufacturing and fitting process we shall be pleased to give you detailed information about cleaning and handling your ocular prosthesis. We shall also provide you with our kundeninformation [at] augenkuenstler.de (subject: Brochure%20for%20handling%20and%20care, body: Send%20me%20your%20brochure%20for%20handling%20and%20care%20please.%20My%20address%20is%3A%0A) (brochure) containing this information.
What material is used for my ocular prosthesis?
We use a cryolyte glass, specially developed for the manufacture of ocular prostheses. This special glass is biocompatible and therefore particularly well suited for its purpose.
Can my ocular prosthesis break?
Yes, which is why it has to be handled with particular care at all times.
Incorrect handling can lead to it being dropped and breaking.
You can find more detailed information in our kundeninformation [at] augenkuenstler.de (subject: Brochure%20for%20handling%20and%20care, body: Send%20me%20your%20brochure%20for%20handling%20and%20care%20please.%20My%20address%20is%3A) (brochure) on the handling and care of ocular prostheses.
Does my ocular prosthesis have to be replaced after a certain period of time?
On average, an artificial eye has to be replaced after 12 months of use. While the special glass makes the surface of the ocular prosthesis highly robust, the length of time over which it can be worn is influenced by environmental factors, dust and dirt. The wearing time for children is shorter because of their growth process.
How do I notice that my ocular prosthesis needs replacement?
If the fit of the ocular prosthesis changes due to alterations of the eye socket then you need a new one.
Intensified secretion over an extended period of time is likewise an indication that the ocular prosthesis needs to be replaced.
Where do I obtain my ocular prosthesis?
Our timetable tells you on which day in which town we are there for manufacturing ocular prostheses. You must then see which date is best for you and send us your request for an appointment.
What do I have to bring with me when I come to have an ocular prosthesis made?
It goes without saying that we have official accreditation with all relevant health insurance funds and cost bearers.
If you belong to a statutory health insurance fund in Germany you will need to bring with you a doctor's prescription for the manufacture of an ocular prosthesis.
If the costs are being covered by an employer's liability insurance association or an orthopaedic supply centre we shall need an order from the corresponding cost bearer.
Are there any costs for me to pay?
At present, members of a statutory health insurance fund in Germany have to make a supplementary payment of 10 euros (unless you are exempted or not yet 18 years of age).
The provision of an ocular prosthesis with the cost covered by an employer's liability insurance association or an orthopaedic supply centre entails no further costs for you.