What’s an ocularist’s job?

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An ocularist creates custom artificial eyes for people who have lost an eye or need it removed. The process involves taking precise measurements, shaping and fitting the ocular prosthesis, and painting it. While there are “stock” artificial eyes, the prostheses that an ophthalmologist provides will precisely fit the wearer. The work of an ocularist is quite different from that of an optician; the latter is a somewhat outdated and general term for an ophthalmologist, whether an optician, an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.

To begin the process of fitting a new artificial eye, an ocularist makes an impression, or leak, of the eye socket. The impression molds a plastic mold – the mold of the real prosthesis, made of acrylic. The ocularist makes the basic prosthesis in the mold, precisely molds it as needed, and paints the white, iris, and pupil using the patient’s other eye as a model. After a final fit to assess shape and color matching, he instructs the patient on proper care and maintenance of the new prosthesis.

In addition to the physical aspects of fitting, shaping, and painting prosthetic eyes, ocularists may need a delicate touch when dealing with patients who have experienced the traumatic loss of an eye, who are often in physical pain and experiencing apprehension for the future. There are some subspecialty areas for ocularists, such as pediatric eye replacement; implants that can move, simulating normal eye tracking; and scleral shells, which fit over a disfigured or discolored but functional eye, restoring its appearance. While their services are most commonly requested for human eye replacement, some ocularists can provide custom eye prostheses for animals that have lost their eye.

Unlike many other medical or adjacent medical specialists, ocularists do not have special schools or achieve specialized degrees. In the United States, according to the American Society of Ocularists (ASO), ocularist training requires an apprenticeship. Prior to training, the ASO recommends a foundation in science and art, specifically painting and sculpture, for those interested in pursuing a career in ocular prosthetics.

Despite its name, the ASO is an international board. The ASO, which certifies ocularists, requires the apprentice to study all aspects of ocular prostheses and spend several years in hands-on training. The organization also offers classes at its biannual meetings in the areas of assembly, manufacturing techniques, dyeing, anatomy and physiology, and hygiene, among others. After training, an ocularist can be certified by the National Examining Board of Ocularists by completing a written and practical exam.

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