The Dangerous Trend of Eye Color-Changing Procedures: What You Need to Know
Posted by: Delray Eye Associates
In the pursuit of cosmetic enhancements, a growing number of people are turning to invasive procedures, such as keratopigmentation, to change their eye color permanently. This trend has sparked serious concerns among ophthalmologists due to the significant risks involved.
What Is Keratopigmentation? Keratopigmentation, also known as eye tattooing, involves injecting color pigments into the cornea—the transparent outer layer of the eye. While this procedure has been used to treat certain medical conditions, its application for aesthetic purposes raises many safety concerns.
Risks of Eye Color-Changing Surgeries According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), potential complications include:
- Vision-threatening infections and inflammation
- Corneal damage leading to cloudiness or vision loss
- Light sensitivity and uveitis
- Uneven or fading pigmentation over time
- Severe reactions to dyes, including glaucoma risks
The Social Media Impact Misinformation online and on social media platforms has contributed to the rising popularity of these procedures. Some patients report satisfaction, but experts warn that long-term safety data is lacking, making these cosmetic surgeries highly risky.
Safer Alternatives The AAO strongly recommends using FDA-approved colored contact lenses prescribed by qualified professionals for anyone looking to change their eye color. These are safer and reversible compared to irreversible and potentially hazardous procedures like keratopigmentation.
Expert Advice Dr. Allison Coombs of Northwell Health warns, “It’s impossible to un-tattoo your corneas.” The risks far outweigh the cosmetic benefits when it comes to such permanent procedures.
When considering any change to your natural eye color, it’s essential to prioritize safety over aesthetics. Your vision is irreplaceable.
