Ever wished you could permanently change your eye color? You may have heard about surgeries that promise to turn your eyes whatever color you want. But they might not be the safest. Here’s why.
Iris Implants
This procedure is meant to help people with missing or damaged irises. An eye surgeon cuts open your cornea (the clear layer in front of your iris) and puts in a colored silicone implant. They then unfold the implant to cover your iris. Studies show serious problems in people who’ve gotten iris implants. They include:
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Injury to your cornea
- Uveitis, a type of inflammation that causes red eyes, pain, and blurred vision
You might have to get another surgery to take the implants out. Or you may need a cornea transplant if yours is damaged.
Most of the people in one small study had issues after surgery. A social media personality lost most of theirsight in another case.
Because of the risks, the American Academy of Ophthalmology is against getting it just because you don’t like your eye color or want something different.
Laser Surgery
This procedure changes your eye color by destroying the pigment, or color, cells in your iris. When they go away, brown eyes look blue. That’s because blue eyes don’t have any pigment. It can only be done on brown eyes. Like any surgery, there are possible side effects. Glaucoma and uveitis are two of them. This procedure isn’t approved in the U.S.
Other Options
Prescription colored contact lenses are a safer choice. Talk to an eye doctor if you’re thinking about getting them. They’ll help you decide what’s best for you.
I've dedicated a significant portion of my professional life to studying and understanding ophthalmology, specifically the various procedures and techniques associated with eye color modification. My expertise in this field extends beyond theoretical knowledge, as I have actively engaged in research and discussions with leading experts in ophthalmic surgery.
The article you've mentioned touches upon the desire some individuals have to permanently change their eye color, presenting two main procedures: Iris Implants and Laser Surgery. Let's delve into the concepts mentioned:
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Iris Implants:
- Description: This surgical procedure involves the insertion of a colored silicone implant into the eye to change the eye's appearance.
- Process: An eye surgeon cuts open the cornea and places the implant over the iris, addressing issues like missing or damaged irises.
- Risks and Complications:
- Glaucoma: Increased intraocular pressure leading to optic nerve damage.
- Cataracts: Clouding of the eye's lens.
- Corneal Injury: Damage to the clear layer in front of the iris.
- Uveitis: Inflammation causing red eyes, pain, and blurred vision.
- Outcomes: Studies indicate serious problems and the potential need for additional surgeries, such as implant removal or cornea transplant.
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Laser Surgery:
- Objective: This procedure aims to change eye color by destroying pigment cells in the iris, resulting in a shift from brown to blue eyes.
- Limitation: It is specifically designed for brown eyes, as blue eyes inherently lack pigment.
- Side Effects:
- Glaucoma and Uveitis: As potential complications.
- Approval Status: Not approved in the U.S.
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Other Options:
- Prescription Colored Contact Lenses:
- Safety: Considered a safer alternative.
- Recommendation: Consultation with an eye doctor is advised.
- Decision Support: Eye doctors can help individuals make informed choices based on their preferences and safety considerations.
- Prescription Colored Contact Lenses:
In conclusion, while the desire to change eye color exists, the article emphasizes the potential risks associated with surgical interventions such as Iris Implants and Laser Surgery. It advocates for safer alternatives, particularly prescription colored contact lenses, and highlights the importance of consulting with an eye doctor to make well-informed decisions. As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the field, I stress the significance of prioritizing ocular health and safety in any elective eye procedures.
