Types of Implants

There are a number of different types of implants used by the surgeon to replace part of the volume of the eye when the globe is removed. These include varied shaped acrylic implants and, more recently, porous implants such as Hydroxyapatite and Medpor, have been used to facilitate greater movement of the prosthetic eye.

Porous implants allow for vascular ingrowth over a period of several months to a year. You will be fitted with your custom made artificial eye during this waiting time. An optional "pegging" procedure can be performed by your ophthalmic surgeon. This allows for a peg to be inserted into the ocular implant. The posterior of your artificial eye will also require modifying.

The pegging provides improved motility of the artificial eye. However, this is an optional procedure. Many patients choose not to proceed with this step due to the fact that they are very satisfied with the existing movement of the artificial eye. In some cases pegging has been known to decrease comfort and increase discharge.

Hydroxyapatite www.ioi.com	Medpor www.porex.com/english/surgical/spatinfo2.asp#MEDPOR