For people who have lost an eye or need to have one removed, an ocularist creates custom artificial eyes. Taking precise measurements, shaping and fitting the ocular prosthesis, and painting it are all part of the process. Although “stock” artificial eyes are available, an ocularist’s prostheses are custom-made to fit the wearer perfectly. The job of an ocularist differs from that of an oculist, which is an outdated and generic term for a medical eye specialist, such as an optician, optometrist, or ophthalmologist.
An ocularist makes an impression, or cast, of the eye socket to begin the process of fitting a new artificial eye. The impression is used to create a plastic mold, which is used to create the actual acrylic prosthesis. The ocularist creates the basic prosthesis in the mold, then shapes and paints the white, iris, and pupil using the patient’s other eye as a model. He or she instructs the patient on proper care and maintenance of the new prosthesis after a final fitting to assess shape and color-matching.
Aside from the physical aspects of fitting, shaping, and painting prosthetic eyes, ocularists may require a delicate touch when dealing with patients who have lost an eye to trauma, who are often in physical pain and fearful about their future. Pediatric eye replacement, implants that move to simulate normal eye tracking, and scleral shells, which fit over a disfigured or discolored but functional eye to restore its appearance, are some of the subspecialty areas for ocularists. Although ocularists are most commonly hired for human eye replacement, some may also make custom eye prostheses for animals who have lost an eye.
Ocularists, unlike many other medical or medical-related specialists, do not attend specialized schools or earn specialized degrees. According to the American Society of Ocularists (ASO), ocularist training in the United States requires an apprenticeship. Those interested in pursuing a career in ocular prostheses should have a background in science as well as art, specifically painting and sculpture, according to the ASO.
Despite its name, the ASO is a global organization. The American Society of Ocularists (ASO), which certifies ocularists, requires that the apprentice study all aspects of ocular prosthetics and spend several years in hands-on training. At its semiannual meetings, the organization also offers classes on topics such as fitting, fabrication techniques, tinting, anatomy and physiology, and hygiene, among others. After completing a written and practical exam, an ocularist may be certified the National Examining Board of Ocularists.