Here at Southeastern Ocularists, we regularly use the modified impression fitting method when creating your prosthesis. Although, depending on certain factors, we may choose a different approach to obtain a mold of your eye socket. We will take into consideration your eye socket anatomy, medical history and any other details when considering the best way to find your fit. Each patient we see in a day may have a unique fitting challenge that would cause us to choose between the modified impression method and empirally fitting the eye socket.

 

Empirical Fitting

The empirical fitting method is also known as the experienced observation technique. We use this technique to fix certain irregularities with your eye. An example of this would be modifying the prosthesis to help with ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid).  Anomalies such as this are best corrected with uniquely designed shapes that manipulate the eyelid into a more functional and cosmetically pleasing position.  This is completed by manipulating the custom fitting shape it wax or even directly carving into the shape itself.  This method relies more on the ocularist’s expert observation, experience, and artistic skill, particularly when the eye socket anatomy is compromised.

Modified Impression

The modified impression fitting method adds vinyl polysiloxane to the empirical fitting equation.  This material is a soft, creamy mix that takes about 20-30 seconds to harden into a rubbery mold.  In this case, we carefully choose the correct fitting shape, or tray, that adequately accommodates for the upper and lower eyelids and fills the periphery of the socket .  From there, we will take an impression of your socket with the selected acrylic shape, which will successfully capture the contours and curves of your eye socket.

Each one of these fitting methods can be used to create a quality fit for your specific eye socket needs.  We will use our expertise here at Southeastern Ocularists, Inc. to figure out which method will work best for you.