What is the correct method to reinsert an artificial eye?

• A. Thumb of nondominant hand raises upper eyelid; dominant hand grasps the eyeball so that the indented part faces the nose and slides it in as far as possible; depress the lower lid and pull forward to cover the prosthesis.
• B. Use the dominant hand to push from the side without lifting lids.
• C. Remove, clean, and reinsert after a delay.
• D. Insert while blinking to fit properly.

Answer: (A)

Handling an artificial eye safely relies on proper seating in the socket so it sits comfortably and doesn’t dislodge. Use the nondominant hand to lift the upper eyelid and expose the socket, while the dominant hand grasps the prosthesis with the indented portion facing the nose and slides it into place as far as possible. Then depress the lower lid and pull forward to help the prosthesis settle beneath the lids so it is covered and stabilized by the conjunctival fornices. This orientation and coordinated movement align the prosthesis with the socket’s natural curvature and prevent snagging or irritation. Pushing from the side without lifting the lids, reinserting after a delay for no reason, or inserting while blinking can lead to misalignment, trauma, or dislodgement.