Insertion

Inserting your prosthesis may at first seem difficult, but with practice, it will become second nature.

Begin by washing your hands thoroughly. Spread a soft towel on the surface in front of you to protect the ocular prosthesis in case you drop it. You may want to lubricate the prosthesis with artificial tears to assist in the insertion. While you insert your prosthesis, keep your gaze downward. This opens up your eye socket in such a way to allow the prosthesis to enter more easily.

Now lift your upper eyelid with the thumb or forefinger of your left hand. (Use your right hand if you are left handed.) Holding the ocular prosthesis with your other hand, slide the upper edge up under the eyelid as far as possible, Next, release the upper eyelid and then using the same hand, pull down gently on the lower eyelid. Gently push the lower edge into the socket, allowing the lower lid to slide up over the bottom edge of the prosthesis.

If you are having extreme difficulty in inserting the eye, you may want to use a suction cup. This can be acquired from your ocularist, and can allow you to easily grip the prosthesis. However, it is best not to become dependent on a suction cup, as you may not always have a suction cup when you need it.