Webb Ocular Prosthetics
“We fabricate specialised ocular prosthetics in our office as each patient is unique; the shape of the prosthetic eye ranges greatly in size, shape and colour.”
My name is Chelsea Webb, I work at Webb Ocular Prosthetics in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. I am a third generation Ocularist at Webb Ocular and I am a graduate from the College of Ocularistry.
At a very young age, I knew I wanted to pursue Ocularistry. I was introduced to the profession by my father, Michael Webb B.C.O, B.A.D.O, F.A.S.O and spent countless hours as a child in the office learning the business. Michael entered the industry through his father, Cecil F. Webb. Cecil was a pioneer in our Ocularistry family business and also became an Optician as well as a certified Contact Lens fitter.
Ocularistry is the fabrication of custom made ocular prosthetics. The training involves understanding the status of the orbit and creating custom designed facial/orbital devices for the Oculoplastic Surgeons. We fabricate specialised ocular prosthetics in our office as each patient is unique; the shape of the prosthetic eye ranges greatly in size, shape and colour.
Each prosthesis is fit and created in our office with an ocular impression of the orbit; an alginate material is used for the imprint. Once the impression of the socket is complete, we design the shape of the prosthesis from the impression with wax. Sculpting, carving and designing a form that will properly fit and allow a high quality cosmetic appearance for our patient. The prosthesis is balanced and as symmetrical as possible to the companion eye. Although, the outcome can vary depending on the patient's medical history.
Once the preferred shape is achieved, we begin to paint the prosthesis. The colour and tones of the prosthetic eye are closely matched to the patient's companion eye. The colours of the iris and sclera, as well as added definition with veins are created for depth. In some circumstances we have patients who also want a “Novelty Eye” or “Fun Eye”. This is a custom designed prosthesis where the design, pattern or eye colour is chosen by the patient. These prosthetic eyes are becoming popular and give many patients the ability to embrace themselves and gain confidence. Painting an ocular prosthesis for a patient is my absolute favourite part for multiple reasons; painting while seeing the prosthesis come to life in front of the patient, as well as taking the time to sit and chat with them. Each person will usually elaborate on their life story, family, work, children or how they lost their eye(s).
Losing an eye can be a traumatic experience for the patient and the patient's family. The event of losing an eye is difficult both mentally and physically to transition to monocular vision, or possibly the circumstances of becoming visually impaired with the loss of both eyes.
Many patients of mine in the beginning stages of their eye loss journey feel alone and believe that they are the only ones who wear a prosthetic eye. In reality, most of us will not notice when someone is wearing an ocular prosthesis, some ocular prosthetics are almost undetectable. We aid in restoring a piece of what our patients have lost and try our very best to restore their confidence; bringing their everyday lives back to normalcy.
To all of my monocular patients, young and wise, I recommend that they do not neglect the care of their ocular prosthesis and continue to visit their Ocularist regularly. Every 6 months for polishing/cleaning, It is also recommended that adults replace their ocular prosthesis every 5 years, and anyone under the age of 18 replace their ocular prosthesis every two years. This time frame is set in place for many reasons; examining the fit and comfort of the ocular prosthesis. Neglecting these regular check ups can lead to serious health complications. Therefore, visiting your Ocularist for a check up at least once a year is very important to avoid and prevent any ocular concerns with the prosthesis.
