What are Enucleation and Evisceration?

An enucleation is the removal of the eye. An evisceration is the removal of the contents of the eye leaving the muscles and scleral tissue, or the white part of the eye. These procedures are performed most often when there is a tumor but also for infection or for blind, painful eyes.

How are Enucleation and Evisceration Performed?

Enucleation or Evisceration is performed under general anesthesia in an outpatient facility or hospital. Sometimes you may stay overnight in the hospital after surgery for pain control. The eye or its contents are removed and replaced with a permanent spherical implant to replace the lost volume. The tissues around the eye are sutured closed to protect the implant. A special hard contact called a conformer is placed at the end of the surgery, and the eye is patched. After approximately 6 weeks of healing, patients are referred to an ocularist to make a prosthetic eye, which is molded and hand painted to match the other eye.

When Can I Return to Normal Activities?

Patients will wear an eye patch for 1 week after surgery. Patients must avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 1 week. Patients may return to work typically within 5-7 days. To learn more about enucleation or evisceration, contact us at 214-220-3937 to schedule an appointment.