As the old saying goes, there's nothing constant in life except change. One exception to this rule used to be eye color. However, thanks to new technology, there is a way to permanently make your brown eyes blue or any other color you want for that matter. This technology involves implants that cover your existing irises. The recent media hype surrounding a TV reality star having this procedure in Africa has renewed interest it. Here are some answers to questions you may have before you decide if this change is for you:

How Does It Work?

The surgical option for iris implants takes an intraocular lens, folds it up, and inserts it through a small incision in a the cornea. Once inserted, it is unfolded over your existing iris, covering it completely. The lens is made from a bio-compatible silicone. The incision is closed, and the procedure is complete. Patients report that their vision is blurry afterward for anywhere from a few minutes to a few months while adjusting to the implants.

Is It FDA Approved?

The emphatic answer from most doctors in the United States is "No!" The Food and Drug Administration has not approved this procedure, and it is not available legally in the United States. Currently, the surgery is available in places like Panama, Tunisia, and some parts of Europe. The materials used in most of these surgeries is FDA approved, but the procedure itself is not.

What are the Risks?

There are inherent risks with any surgery, the most common of which is an infection. In addition, you risk your body rejecting the implants, which could lead to cataracts, glaucoma, and even blindness. Many doctors believe that over time these implants will degrade the eye and cause serious problems.

Why Do People Have This Done?

While proponents of this procedure claim it is not recommended for cosmetic use only, most people get this done because they don't like their natural eye color for one reason, or another. Some providers claim the inserts can be used to treat conditions such as:

• ocular albinism
• heterochromia (different colored eyes)
• iris atrophy
• coloboma (a hole in the iris)
• aniridia (missing iris, total or partial)

These claims again, are not FDA certified.

Are There Other Ways To Change Eye Color?

In addition to this implant procedure, new non-invasive techniques are in development. One involves using a laser to destroy brown pigment in the iris. After two to four weeks, the body would eliminate the dead pigment leaving behind blue irises. Several herbal drops are also available that claim to gradually change eye color on a temporary basis. None of these methods are FDA approved either.

Before you decide to take drastic measures to change your eye color, consult with your personal ophthalmologist and get more information. Your eyes are a valuable asset and protecting them should be your priority. To learn more, try contacting a company like Arizona Eye Specialists with any questions you have.

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