Some eye conditions are so rare that they only touch a few lives in a million. They are serious issues that can change a person’s life forever.

While it’s incredibly difficult for those who have these rare eye conditions, there’s hope through special treatments, as well as the use of an ocular prosthesis, or artificial eye.

Let’s learn together about these unique challenges and the brave journeys of those who face them.

Rare Eye Conditions

Some people have eye conditions that are rare and serious, such as eyes that might not develop right or even eyes that have to be removed. Understanding these conditions is the first step to helping those who have them.

Congenital Anophthalmia

Congenital anophthalmia is when a baby is born without one or both eyes, presenting significant challenges. Ocularists can help by creating a special artificial eye that can make a big difference in how they look and feel about themselves.

Congenital Microphthalmia (Nanophthalmia)

Congenital microphthalmia, also known as nanophthalmia, is when a child’s eyes are very small and not fully formed. It’s different from anophthalmia because there’s some eye there, just not developed. These children might also need to use an artificial eye to help them have a more normal appearance.

Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is a type of eye cancer that mostly affects young children. The notion that any child must confront the challenges of cancer is heart-wrenching. Yet, it is through their courage and resilience that many embark on lifesaving treatments. These treatments, while potentially lifesaving, can sometimes lead to the loss of an eye. If that happens, an ocular prosthesis can be used to help them look and feel like their old selves as much as possible.

Severe Traumatic Eye Injury (Leading to Phthisis Bulbi)

Occasionally, severe injuries can result in a condition known as phthisis bulbi. This occurs when an eye sustains such significant damage that it not only loses its ability to see but also gradually shrinks. In these cases, doctors are often faced with a difficult decision about whether or not to remove the affected eye. This measure, while challenging, is undertaken to alleviate pain and to safeguard the health and function of the remaining eye, ultimately aiming to preserve the patient’s overall well-being, sight, and quality of life.

Sympathetic Ophthalmia

Sympathetic Ophthalmia is a rare yet serious reaction that may develop following an injury to one eye. In this reaction, the uninjured eye, as if in sympathy, begins to exhibit similar symptoms of distress, extending the trauma from one eye to the other.

In certain instances, the most effective strategy to safeguard the health of the seeing, companion eye involves the removal of the injured one, a decision aimed at preventing further complications and preserving the patient’s overall vision.

Painful Blind Eye

A painful blind eye, as the term suggests, refers to an eye that not only has lost its ability to see but also causes considerable pain. In certain cases, the pain remains unrelieved, and the underlying issue persists. Under these circumstances, the removal or evisceration of the contents of the afflicted eye may become necessary. One of these procedures is often the most effective means to provide lasting relief from the pain, and improve the individual’s quality of life.

Eye Removal After Rare Conditions

The loss of an eye is an incredibly challenging experience. To cope with this change, an ocular prosthesis can be a significant source of comfort and recovery in terms of physical appearance. While the artificial eye doesn’t restore vision, it can play a crucial role in maintaining a normal appearance, boosting confidence during social interactions and helping individuals feel more at ease in their day-to-day activities.

Finding Hope and Healing After a Rare Eye Condition

When dealing with these rare and tough conditions, hope can seem far away. With the help of caring doctors, supportive families, and amazing combination of technology and art found in artificial eyes, people can find a new way to face the world.

Every challenge has a solution, even if it’s not perfect. And for many, an ocular prosthesis is a step toward healing from a rare eye condition.

For those considering an ocular prosthesis, Eye Concern can help. Our board-certified ocularists craft beautiful custom artificial eyes that not only restore your confidence but also enhance functionality. Our dedicated team is committed to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring a comfortable and supportive experience. Reach out to Eye Concern today to learn more.