What Is Eye Color Change Surgery?
Eye color change surgery is generally performed when the colored part of the eye, the iris, is damaged due to injury. However, nowadays, it is also used for cosmetic purposes as an alternative to colored lenses.
Methods of Eye Color Change Surgery
Eye color change surgery can be performed using three different procedures. These procedures are usually recommended for correcting injuries or abnormalities in the iris. For cosmetic purposes, the safest method to change eye color is contact lenses. The procedures for changing eye color include the following:
Laser Keratopigmentation
This method is also known as corneal tattooing because the iris color is not changed. Instead, color is applied to the cornea to conceal the iris color. The procedure is applied to the cornea, the front part of the eye.
Laser Depigmentation
Laser depigmentation is a process where laser is used to destroy melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the upper layer of the iris. Unlike laser keratopigmentation, which is an additive process, laser depigmentation is a subtractive process. This procedure, also known as photoablative iridoplasty, aims to lighten the eye color by targeting melanin-producing cells.
Iris Implant Treatment
In iris implant treatment, the natural iris is replaced with a prosthetic iris. This method is less invasive compared to other options. The surgery, performed under local anesthesia, is an outpatient procedure. This method was first used in 1956 to correct defects such as ocular albinism.
Complications of Eye Color Change Surgery
The risks involved in eye color change surgery vary depending on the procedure performed. The procedures and their associated risks are as follows:
Risks of Laser Keratopigmentation
Although this procedure is generally considered safe, it does have some risks. Especially any unintended movement can cause injury. Other risks of the procedure include:
- Inconsistent color due to uneven distribution of the dye
- Color fading due to dye leakage into the corneal space
- Corneal perforation leading to fluid leakage, vision changes, and corneal dome collapse
- Light sensitivity due to abnormal light refraction from the opaque edges of the colored cornea
- Uveitis due to a reaction to the dye used
- Corneal ulcer or scarring caused by bacteria
Laser Depigmentation
The risks associated with laser depigmentation include:
- Usually mild and short-lasting iris inflammation
- Light sensitivity due to abnormal pupil dilation
- The underlying color may not be the desired color
Iris Implantation
Iris implantation surgery carries significant risks, which is why it is rarely performed for cosmetic purposes. Some serious complications of this method include:
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Eye infection
- Vision loss
- Blindness
How Is Eye Color Change Surgery Performed?
The methods for performing eye color change surgery vary depending on the procedure used.
Laser Keratopigmentation
This procedure involves the use of a laser system to create circular tunnels at a uniform depth. The next step involves injecting colored dye into these tunnels. The use of a laser system ensures more homogeneous color distribution.
To perform the procedure, the eyes are numbed with anesthetic eye drops. The patient's head is then secured in a fixed position, and a hinged device is placed to keep the eyelids open. These precautions may cause discomfort during the procedure, but they are essential for the smooth progress of the surgery.
Laser Depigmentation
Multiple sessions are required for this procedure because low-energy laser beams are used. These beams heat the brown pigments on the surface of the iris, revealing the blue or green color underneath. The laser beams pass through the cornea without causing any damage. Anesthetic drops are used during the procedure.
Iris Implantation
To insert the iris implant, an incision is made where the iris meets the cornea. The silicone implant is then folded and placed over the iris through the incision. In the final step, the prosthetic is stitched onto the natural iris.
Pre-Surgery Considerations for Eye Color Change Surgery
Patients do not need to make any special preparations before undergoing eye color change procedures. However, it is important not to wear eye makeup on the day of the surgery.
Post-Surgery Considerations for Eye Color Change Surgery
After undergoing eye color change procedures, it is crucial to closely monitor for signs of complications. If any unexpected side effects occur or if the symptoms are severe, it is important to consult a specialist. Additionally, if an iris implant has been placed, care should be taken not to rub the eyes during the healing process.
Recovery Process of Eye Color Change Surgery
The recovery processes for eye color change methods vary. The recovery times for each method are as follows:
Laser Keratopigmentation
The recovery period for this method is shorter compared to other methods because no procedure is applied to the corneal surface. Most people begin to see normally on the 2nd or 3rd day after the operation. However, complete recovery may take one to three weeks. During the early days of recovery, mild discomfort and light sensitivity may be experienced.
Laser Depigmentation
The desired eye color is not immediately achieved with this procedure. The treatment must continue for up to 4 weeks for the underlying color to be revealed.
In the first two hours after the procedure, mild blurred vision, eye redness, tearing, or light sensitivity may occur. If iris inflammation occurs, it is usually short-term. Iris inflammation can also cause headaches, abnormal pupils, and light sensitivity.
Iris Implantation
During the first two days after the implant is placed, a stinging sensation may be felt. Additionally, light sensitivity and tearing may occur. It may take a week or longer for vision to improve. Protective glasses should be worn during sleep to prevent rubbing the eyes. Complete recovery may take up to 8 weeks.
