Hygiene Care for the Prosthesis & Lids

WARNING! Never place the plastic prosthesis in alcohol or any other harsh chemical liquid. This will damage the surface of the prosthesis, which will cause irritation to the conjunctival tissue in the cavity.

Hygiene care begins with clean hands! Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly, with an emphasis on your fingertips. A warm, wet face cloth (with a "no more tears" baby shampoo) should be applied to the lids and eye lashes to soften and remove any hardened secretions that may have collected over time. Be sure to wipe toward the nose, not outward, since this may rotate the prosthesis out of position, or cause it to fall out of the cavity.

• To clean in the shower: The shower nozzle should be adjusted to a fine spray. Cover your sighted eye with your hand for protection while the spray strikes the prosthesis with the lids open. 
• For a non-shower buff: A 1-ounce ear syringe can be used with tap water, distilled water, or saline solution (¼ teaspoon of non-iodized salt to 1 quart of boiled water. Keep this in a covered container. The solution is good for approximately one week). Siphon the water into the syringe. Hold the syringe in the palm of your hand in a “hand salute” position over the brow of the fellow eye. The syringe is also supported by the bridge of the nose while the tip is near the inner edge of the prosthesis. Tilt your head to the side and catch the drainage in a face cloth or hand towel. 

It is recommended the prosthesis be removed at least once a month to check for protein deposits and built-up surface secretions that can give the prosthesis a dull appearance and cause socket irritation. Remove the prosthesis, rinse with the gentle baby shampoo and a wash cloth, and reinsert. A clean prosthesis will prevent irritation to the underpart of the lids and cavity, reduce secretions, and contributes toward wearing comfort. 

If you have sinus problems, hay-fever, asthma, or a cold, expect an increased amount of tearing and secretion. This is a natural experience. It is suggested you use the saline solution with the ear syringe and irrigate three times a day until the secretions stop.