Enucleation & Evisceration

When a blind eye is the source of chronic pain, infection risk, or harbors a tumor, surgical removal combined with a natural-looking prosthesis can dramatically improve quality of life. Our team provides compassionate, complete care from surgery through prosthesis fitting.

Request a ConsultationCall 512.528.1144

Enucleation vs. Evisceration

Enucleation

Complete removal of the entire eyeball
Extraocular muscles detached and reattached to implant
Required when intraocular tumor is present
Eliminates any risk of sympathetic ophthalmia
Porous implant (Medpor or hydroxyapatite) placed in socket

Evisceration

Contents of the eye removed; scleral shell preserved
Faster surgery with excellent prosthesis motility
Best for painful blind eye without tumor
Preserves natural scleral support for implant
Not suitable when ocular tumor is present

From Surgery to Prosthesis

  1. 1

    Pre-Operative Evaluation

    Complete examination, imaging, and medical clearance. We discuss which procedure is appropriate and review implant and prosthesis options with you.

  2. 2

    Surgery (Outpatient)

    Performed under general or monitored anesthesia. Duration is typically 1–2 hours. A temporary conformer (clear shell) is placed in the socket.

  3. 3

    Initial Healing (4–6 Weeks)

    Swelling resolves. Antibiotic drops and conformer care instructions are provided. Most patients return to normal activities within 2 weeks.

  4. 4

    Prosthesis Fitting

    An ocular prosthetist creates a custom acrylic eye matched exactly to your other eye — iris color, vessel patterns, and size. Final fitting typically occurs 6–8 weeks after surgery.

  5. 5

    Long-Term Care

    Annual polishing by an ocularist, daily cleaning, and periodic follow-up with Dr. Shepler ensure the socket and prosthesis remain healthy for decades.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Shepler

If you're living with a blind, painful eye, there is a path to comfort and a natural appearance. We'll walk you through every step — from the decision to surgery to your final prosthesis fitting.

Schedule NowCall 512.528.1144