A SURGERY TO PERMANENTLY CHANGE YOUR EYE COLOUR?

In recent years, a new surgical procedure has been developed to provide an option for people looking for a permanent change to their eye colour. Keratopigmentation involves the laser-assisted introduction of pigment into the cornea, creating a cosmetic effect that can transform one’s appearance. However, with any medical intervention, it is essential to consider both the potential benefits and risks involved.

Benefits of Keratopigmentation

1. Cosmetic Enhancement: One of the main reasons individuals opt for keratopigmentation is the desire for a more vibrant eye color, or a different one altogether. For many, this procedure offers an opportunity to express individuality and boost self-esteem, as eye colour can significantly impact one’s overall appearance.
2. Corrective Potential: Keratopigmentation can cover up conditions such as iris defects or mask corneal opacities, providing a more visually appealing result in cases involving eye injuries, disease, and birth defects.
3. Less Invasive Alternative: Iris implants involve surgically inserting a coloured membrane into the eye to cover up the natural iris. This has proven to be a dangerous procedure, causing complications such as glaucoma, chronic eye inflammation, and even blindness. While keratopigmentation has not been around very long and more evidence is needed, it appears to be a less-risky alternative to iris implants. 
4. Lasting Results: Keratopigmentation is considered to have a semi-permanent effect, with pigments potentially lasting several years. This reduces the need for frequent replacements or touch-ups, giving individuals a long-term solution for their desired eye appearance.

Risks of Keratopigmentation

1. Eye Health Complications: As with any procedure that involves introducing foreign materials into the body, there exists a risk of complications. Adverse effects such as infection, inflammation, trauma to the delicate tissue of the cornea, and allergy to the dye may occur, which may lead to severe vision problems and/or pain and discomfort. The American Academy of Ophthalmology issued a warning earlier this year on colour-changing eye surgeries, including keratopigmentation, stating the potential risks of vision loss and other complications may outweigh the benefit of a simple cosmetic alteration.
2. Regulatory Concerns: The field of keratopigmentation is still relatively new, raising questions about regulatory oversight and the long-term safety of the pigments used. Prospective patients must research and ensure that they are choosing qualified practitioners who adhere to the highest standards of safety and hygienic practices.
3. Reversibility Issues: While keratopigmentation is marketed as semi-permanent, the removal or alteration of the pigment can be challenging and may require additional procedures, potentially incurring further risk and financial cost.
4. Aesthetic Disappointments: As with any cosmetic procedure, the outcome may not always meet expectations. Variations in individual responses to the procedure and differences in the way pigments settle in the cornea can lead to unexpected results, highlighting the importance of thorough consultations and counseling on expectations.

Conclusion

Keratopigmentation presents an option for people interested in surgical alteration of their natural eye colour. However, there are significant concerns about its safety and long-term results. At MVO, our optometrists do not recommend any currently available eye colour-altering surgeries. As advancements in this field continue to unfold, we will continue to update you on the risks and benefits of cosmetic eye surgeries.

Still interested in changing your eye colour with less of a risk to your eye health? Speak to your MVO optometrist at your next visit about colour-enhancing contact lenses!