How to Insert and Remove a Prosthetic Eye — Beginner Guide with Video Alternatives

Note: This guide is educational for new prosthetic eye users. Your ocularist should demonstrate insertion and removal in person before you attempt at home. If you're unsure, always call your ocularist first.

Before you begin

  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Dry with a clean towel.
  • Have a soft cloth or towel beneath you — catches the prosthesis if it drops.
  • Sit at a mirror in good light. Bathroom vanity mirror works well.
  • Have a small suction cup on hand (your ocularist will provide one). This is the safest removal tool.
  • Have preservative-free artificial tears or your ocularist's recommended lubricant nearby.

Insertion — 6 steps

Step 1. Identify the top of the prosthesis. It has a slight notch or marking (your ocularist will show you). Hold the prosthesis between your thumb and index finger with the top facing up.
Step 2. Put 1-2 drops of preservative-free lubricant on the back (concave) surface of the prosthesis. This helps it slide into place.
Step 3. With your non-dominant hand, lift your upper eyelid gently by holding the eyelashes and pulling upward. Do NOT press on the socket.
Step 4. With your dominant hand, slide the top edge of the prosthesis under the upper eyelid first. The prosthesis should go behind the eyelid, not in front.
Step 5. Once the top edge is behind the upper eyelid, use your non-dominant hand to pull the lower eyelid down and gently push the bottom of the prosthesis under the lower eyelid.
Step 6. Release both eyelids. Blink 2-3 times to settle the prosthesis. It should feel smooth and secure, not tilted or protruding.

Removal — 3 steps (suction cup method)

Step 1. Wet the small suction cup with clean water or artificial tears. Squeeze the bulb to expel air.
Step 2. Look up. With your non-dominant hand, pull down the lower eyelid.
Step 3. Place the suction cup on the front (convex) surface of the prosthesis, release the bulb slowly to create suction, then gently pull the prosthesis down and out.

Manual removal (without suction cup) — for experienced users

  1. Look up.
  2. Pull the lower eyelid down and outward with your fingertip.
  3. The bottom edge of the prosthesis will pop forward — catch it with your other hand or a towel.

What to do if the prosthesis rotates in the socket

Rotation is common in the first 1-2 weeks. To fix:

  1. Look straight ahead in the mirror.
  2. Gently press through your closed eyelid to reposition the prosthesis.
  3. Or remove and reinsert.

If rotation continues past 2 weeks, book a fitting adjustment with your ocularist — the prosthesis may need shape adjustment.

Common first-time mistakes

Don't do these:
  • Don't force the prosthesis in — if it won't slide easily, add more lubricant and try again
  • Don't insert with dirty hands — infection risk
  • Don't use tap water for lubrication — use saline or preservative-free tears
  • Don't remove in shower or over sink — slippery prostheses fall and chip
  • Don't panic if it takes 5-10 attempts the first week — it's a learned skill

When to call your ocularist urgently

  • Prosthesis stuck and won't come out
  • Sudden pain, redness, or discharge
  • Chip or crack noticed after insertion
  • Persistent discomfort past 48 hours after new prosthesis

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to learn?

Most new patients are confident with insertion and removal after 1-2 weeks of daily practice. Some pick it up in 2-3 days, others take a month. Don't rush.

Should I remove my prosthesis every night?

Depends on your ocularist's recommendation. Some patients wear theirs 24/7; others remove nightly. Nighttime removal reduces socket dryness but requires more insertion practice.

What if I lose my prosthesis?

Have a backup on hand. A stock $75 prosthesis is a small price for peace of mind. Contact your ocularist immediately to arrange a replacement.

Can I sleep with my prosthesis in?

Yes, if your ocularist approves. Many patients do without issue. If you develop nighttime dryness or discharge, switch to nightly removal.

How do I clean the suction cup?

Rinse with warm water and mild soap after each use. Air-dry on a clean cloth. Replace annually.

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