Specializing in Custom Artificial Eyes

SCLERAL SHELLS

A scleral cover shell is an ocular prosthesis that is worn over an existing eye. Typically, one who is a candidate for a scleral shell has a blind phthisical (shrunken) eye, microphthalmia or an evisceration surgery. The shell fits like a large contact lens, covering the whole front surface of the eye globe. It moves along with the existing eye and is fit so that the eyelid openings are symmetrical.

The process of making a scleral shell is very similar to the making of an artificial eye, with a few extra steps to ensure comfort over the existing cornea. Please see process for a step-by-step tour of how an artificial eye is made.

Patients who wear a scleral shell are sometimes able to wear it full time, removing it once every week or two weeks for cleaning. Other patients prefer to wear them all day long and remove them at night. Many who have tried to wear a prosthetic lens, painted lens or colored contact lens have had great success with wearing a scleral shell instead.

We can fit a scleral shell over an existing eye, even if it is nearly full sized. Please contact us for more information or make an appointment for a free consultation.

SCLERAL SHELLS  -  BEFORE & AFTER

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Whether you are currently wearing a scleral shell, are in need of one, or are gathering information, we hope these examples have been useful.

If you are interested in a consultation or are having difficulties with your current fit,
please contact us for an appointment.

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