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Are all ocularists board certified? NO.
Unfortunately, any individual can say he is an ocularist, even
someone with improper training or little experience. To maintain
the health and integrity of your socket and get the best prosthesis
possible, it is advisable that you select a Board Certified Ocularist.
Look for the title abbreviations B.C.O. after the ocularist's name.
How does an ocularist become board certified?
An apprentice is selected based on interest. A college degree is
preferred. They begin their training under the guidance of a Board
Certified Ocularist for approximately 5 years. The apprenticeship
process is carefully monitored by the National Examining Board of
Ocularists and The American Society of Ocularists. During the
training period, apprentices are taught proper lab techniques,
painting, fitting and fabrication of an ocular prosthesis.
Instruction in the anatomy and physiology of the globe and
structures of the orbit are also taught. FDA requirements for
ocularists are gone over as well. Apprentices are required to
attend American Society of Ocularist meetings, where instructional
courses are given, tests are administered and credits are acquired.
Once the apprentice has completed the necessary requirements and
competency in the field of ocularistry, the individual is qualified
to sit for a riqorous and thorough examination to become board
certified.
What is the difference between a custom ocular
prosthesis and a scleral shell?
A custom ocular prosthesis is fabricated for clients who have had an
eye surgically removed due to trauma, disease, or birth defect.
On the other hand, some people sustain an injury or birth defect
that does not require the eye to be surgically removed. Scleral
cover shells are designed to fit over blind, disfigured, or shrunken
globes. These very thin, impression fitted shells provide excellent
cosmetics, motility, and comfort.
How long does an ocular prosthesis last?
Since artifical eyes and scleral cover shells are manufactured out
of plastic, over time secretions from ones tears slowly seep into
the plastic, causing the prosthesis to discolor and become
contaminated. Furthermore, the tissues and implant within the
socket will shift with time causing the cosmetics of the
prosthesis to change. An average life span of a prosthesis can
range anywhere from approximately 7-12 years. Children need
replacements more frequently due to growth changes.
How often should I have my prosthesis polished?
Every 6 months. This is necessary because salt and protein from your
tears form a plaque like coating on the prosthesis. This build up of
deposits on the prosthesis can irritate the conjunctiva which is the
sensitive inner lining of your socket and eyelids. Permanent
scarring of the eyelids can occur if you do not have the
prosthesis polished regularly by a board certified ocularist.
Do you accept insurance? YES.
Ocular prosthetics are considered Durable Medical Equipment.
Many insurance companies do not cover artificial eyes because they
consider it cosmetic. If your plan covers an ocular prosthesis,
we ask for a down payment when the eye is delivered. If for some
reason your insurance does not pay then you will be responsible
for the balance. Texas Eye Prosthetics, LLC also accepts Medicare,
Medicaid, and vouchers from the VA Hospital in Houston.
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