The desire to change one’s eye color has been a fascinating topic for many, with various cosmetic and medical procedures offering ways to achieve it. Laser eye color change has become a popular and intriguing option among the methods that have gained attention. However, while the idea of a permanent shift in iris color sounds appealing to some, important considerations and potential risks are involved in this process. In this blog, we will explore laser eye color change, including its effectiveness, safety, and the possible risks and alternatives to consider before undergoing such a procedure.
What is Laser Eye Color Change?
Laser eye color change involves using a laser to alter the pigment in the iris, the colored part of the eye, to achieve a lighter or different shade of eye color. Typically, laser depigmentation is used for people with dark eyes (such as brown or black) to create a lighter shade, often resulting in blue eyes or green eyes. The procedure works by targeting the brown pigment in the iris and selectively removing it, revealing the underlying lighter iris color.
The technology behind laser eye color change is still evolving, and while it promises a dramatic change, it has raised concerns regarding safety, effectiveness, and long-term effects. Unlike colored contact lenses, which temporarily alter eye color, laser eye color change provides a permanent solution, and with that permanence comes more significant risks.
How Does the Laser Eye Color Change Procedure Work?
The laser eye color change procedure involves using an excimer laser to perform laser depigmentation, which removes the pigment in the iris. The excimer laser targets the pigment called melanin, which gives the iris its brown color. By selectively eliminating the melanin in the outer layer of the iris, the procedure reveals the underlying lighter iris color beneath it.
The laser removes enough pigment to reveal a blue-gray or green tint, depending on the natural iris color and the melanin present. The procedure typically takes a few minutes per eye and is usually performed under local anesthetic.
What Happens After the Procedure?
Post-procedure, patients may experience some discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurry vision, which should subside within a few days to a week. However, full recovery time can vary from person to person, with some individuals requiring a few weeks for their vision and eye color to stabilize.
The Benefits of Laser Eye Color Change
- Permanent Change: Unlike temporary solutions like colored contact lenses, laser eye color change permanently transforms your eye color. Once the procedure is done, the new eye color remains for the long term.
- Cosmetic Purpose: This option can provide a more permanent solution than traditional means for those seeking a cosmetic procedure to change their eye color. This procedure can deliver the desired aesthetic transformation if you’re looking for blue or green eyes.
- No Daily Maintenance: Unlike colored contact lenses, which need to be put in and removed daily, laser eye color change eliminates the need for continuous upkeep. Once the procedure is complete, there is no need to worry about contacts or other solutions.
Risks and Complications of Laser Eye Color Change
Significant risks and complications should not be overlooked despite the potential appeal of a permanent eye color change. Several major concerns exist regarding the safety and long-term effects of the procedure.
1. Vision Loss and Reduced Vision
One of the most significant risks of laser eye color change is potential vision loss or reduced vision. The process involves using a laser that can alter the natural iris and even affect the deeper layers of the cornea. As the laser targets the pigment in the iris, it may inadvertently damage the surrounding tissue or lead to blurred vision or permanent vision problems.
A study by the American Academy of Ophthalmology has highlighted that the procedure might increase the risk of certain vision problems, such as light sensitivity, blurred vision, and even vision loss.
2. Elevated Pressure Inside the Eye
Another major concern is the potential for elevated pressure inside the eye, which can lead to glaucoma. The laser eye color change procedure may cause a temporary increase in intraocular pressure. For individuals with existing glaucoma or a predisposition to the condition, this could lead to more severe eye health complications. Elevated pressure can damage the optic nerve over time, which could result in permanent damage to vision.
3. Light Sensitivity and Dry Eyes
Some patients may experience light sensitivity after the procedure, where bright lights cause discomfort. This can persist for a period after the surgery and affect a person’s ability to perform certain tasks, such as driving at night. Additionally, some individuals may develop dry eyes, a condition where the eyes are not producing enough moisture, leading to irritation and discomfort.
4. Infection or Inflammation
As with any eye surgery, infection or inflammation are risks. Although rare, infection can occur following the laser eye color change procedure, leading to swelling and discomfort. Infections could result in cornea scarring or other complications, permanently affecting eye health.
5. Incorrect or Unwanted Eye Color
The final result of laser eye color change may not always be as expected. For some individuals, the procedure may not provide the eye color they envisioned, resulting in a wrong color or uneven pigment distribution. Sometimes, the iris may appear uneven, and achieving the desired permanent eye color may be difficult. Complications like uneven pigment removal can lead to an unnatural iris color.
6. Not FDA Approved for Cosmetic Use
The laser eye color change procedure is still not fully FDA approved for cosmetic purposes. The FDA has expressed concerns about the procedure’s safety, noting that it has not been adequately studied for long-term effects on eye health. While iris implants are available for specific medical reasons, their use for cosmetic iris implant surgery is still controversial.
Alternatives to Laser Eye Color Change
If you’re considering a change to your eye color, there are alternative, safer options that do not involve surgery:
1. Colored Contact Lenses
One of the most common and safe ways to change your eye color is to use colored contact lenses. These lenses come in various shades, such as blue, green, or even gray, and can mimic the appearance of a natural eye color. They are noninvasive, easy to use, and widely available, though they require proper maintenance and care to avoid complications like eye infections.
2. Cosmetic Iris Implant Surgery
Iris implants are another option for those interested in permanent eye color change. This procedure involves implanting an artificial iris over the natural one to change its color. This method has been associated with various risks, including vision loss and increased pressure inside the eye. As with laser eye surgery, iris implants are primarily intended for medical conditions, such as aniridia (absence of an iris), and should only be considered after careful consultation with a qualified eye doctor.
3. Cosmetic Eye Tattooing
Another alternative is eye tattooing, also known as corneal tattooing or scleral tattooing, which involves inserting a dye into the cornea to change the appearance of the iris. This procedure is not FDA approved for cosmetic purposes and carries significant risks, including infection and vision loss.
Conclusion
The idea of a permanent eye color change through laser eye color change is certainly intriguing, but it comes with substantial risks that must be carefully considered. While the procedure offers the possibility of achieving a lighter iris or even blue eyes, the potential for vision loss, elevated pressure, and other complications make it a controversial choice.
Alternatives like colored contact lenses offer a safer and less invasive solution for changing eye color without the permanent consequences. Suppose you’re interested in making such a change. In that case, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced cosmetic dentist or ophthalmologist to ensure that you’re fully aware of the procedure’s potential risks and benefits.
Ultimately, maintaining healthy eyes should be a priority, and cosmetic procedures should be approached with caution and a proper understanding of the possible risks involved.
References
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dangers-of-eye-color-change-surgery
https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-change-your-eye-color-3421867
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-color-change-surgery-is-it-safe
