How Permanent Eye Color Change Works

Many patients at Compton Eye Associates are curious about permanent eye color change, a trend gaining attention among celebrities. One notable example is Yailin “La Mas Viral”, who opted for keratopigmentation at Eyes Color Lab in Florida. This clinic, popular among artists like La Diosa, El Micha, Osmani García, and Wow Popy, offers the procedure at a cost of $12,000. Yailin transformed her naturally dark eyes to the “Miami Gray” shade, sparking both admiration and criticism on social media. While this procedure has become a talking point, it’s important to understand its risks, FDA approval status, and safer alternatives.

What Is Keratopigmentation?

Keratopigmentation is a surgical procedure in which pigment is implanted into the corneal stroma to alter the color of the eyes. Originally developed to address medical conditions like corneal scarring or iris defects, it has gained popularity for cosmetic purposes. During the procedure, a surgeon uses a femtosecond laser or manual techniques to create a tunnel or pocket within the cornea. Pigments are then injected into this space to achieve the desired color change (Alió et al., 2021).

Unlike other forms of eye pigmentation, keratopigmentation is designed to be permanent. The procedure uses biocompatible pigments that minimize the risk of inflammation or rejection. However, the success of the surgery depends on the expertise of the surgeon and the patient’s overall eye health.

What Color Options Are Available?

Patients undergoing keratopigmentation can choose from a variety of colors, including natural tones like blue, green, hazel, and brown. Some clinics also offer custom colors, allowing patients to select shades that enhance their natural features or provide a dramatic transformation. Advanced techniques ensure that the results look natural, with gradients and patterns that mimic the appearance of an iris (Alió et al., 2019).

Is Keratopigmentation Approved in the United States?

Keratopigmentation is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cosmetic use. While the procedure has been adopted internationally in both cosmetic and medical applications, its status in the United States reflects ongoing concerns about safety, efficacy, and potential complications. Regulatory agencies, including the FDA, require extensive clinical trials and long-term data to approve procedures for widespread use, particularly those involving delicate structures like the cornea (Alió et al., 2021).

Why Is FDA Approval Important?

FDA approval ensures that a procedure meets strict safety and efficacy standards. Without this approval, the risks associated with keratopigmentation remain less thoroughly studied in diverse patient populations. Reported complications include corneal inflammation, pigment migration, and even vision impairment in some cases (Alió et al., 2019). Additionally, because the procedure is not FDA-approved, it is not standardized in the U.S., meaning that techniques and outcomes can vary widely among providers.

What Does the Research Say?

Peer-reviewed studies indicate that keratopigmentation can achieve successful cosmetic and therapeutic outcomes when performed by experienced surgeons. For example, Alió et al. (2021) reviewed outcomes of over 100 patients, finding significant improvements in both appearance and patient satisfaction. However, the study also highlighted the importance of proper patient selection, as individuals with pre-existing corneal diseases or thin corneas may face higher risks. These findings underscore the need for more comprehensive data before the procedure can gain FDA approval.

Patients considering keratopigmentation should consult their eye care provider to discuss the risks and benefits. Opting for alternative solutions, such as FDA-approved colored contact lenses, can provide a safer option for eye color changes without the potential complications of surgery.

Safer Alternatives for Eye Color Change

If you want to change your eye color without surgery, contact lenses are the safest option. Compton Eye Associates offers a wide range of colored contact lenses to suit your style. These lenses are FDA-approved and provide a temporary but effective way to enhance or change your eye color.

Colored contact lenses are available in natural shades like blue, green, and hazel. Specialty lenses for more dramatic looks are also an option. Our optometrists in Manhattan will ensure your lenses fit properly and meet your vision needs.

Why Choose Contact Lenses Over Surgery?

There are several reasons to consider contact lenses over keratopigmentation:

• Safety: Contact lenses are a non-invasive and FDA-approved option.
• Reversibility: You can change your color choice anytime with new lenses.
• Affordability: Surgery can be costly, while contact lenses are more budget-friendly.
• Accessibility: Contact lenses are widely available at Compton Eye Associates in New York.

Our team will work with you to find the perfect lenses for your lifestyle. Whether you want a subtle enhancement or a bold transformation, we have options for every preference.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Curious about changing your eye color? While keratopigmentation may sound appealing, it is important to consider its risks and lack of FDA approval. At Compton Eye Associates, we provide a safe, approved alternative with our colored contact lenses.

Visit our clinic for expert eye care services in Manhattan and discover how we can help you achieve your vision goals. Call us at 800-936-0036 or schedule an appointment online today. Let our skilled optometrists guide you toward a safe and stylish solution for your eye color needs.

References

Alió, J. L., Toffaha, B. T., Akmakjian, A., & Abdou, A. A. (2021). Keratopigmentation: A systematic review of surgical techniques and outcomes. Cornea, 40(7), 891–899.

Alió, J. L., Elkady, B., Toffaha, B. T., & Piñero, D. P. (2019). Corneal tattooing for cosmetic and therapeutic indications. Eye and Vision, 6(1), 3.

 

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FAQ: Keratopigmentation and Eye Color Change

1. What is keratopigmentation?
Keratopigmentation is a surgical procedure that implants pigment into the cornea to change the eye’s color permanently.

2. Is keratopigmentation safe?
The procedure has risks, including infection, corneal damage, and vision loss. It is not FDA-approved in the United States for cosmetic use.

3. Can I get keratopigmentation in the United States?
Yes, some doctors in the U.S. offer keratopigmentation. However, it is not FDA-approved for cosmetic purposes, and safety concerns remain.

4. What are the alternatives to keratopigmentation?
Colored contact lenses are a safe, FDA-approved option for changing your eye color temporarily.

5. How long does keratopigmentation last?
The procedure is permanent, but results may vary depending on the surgeon’s expertise and the patient’s eye health.

6. What colors can keratopigmentation create?
Options include natural shades like blue, green, brown, and hazel, as well as custom colors for unique looks.

7. Are there medical uses for keratopigmentation?
Yes, it can treat conditions like corneal scarring and iris deformities by restoring the eye’s appearance.

8. How much does keratopigmentation cost?
The cost varies, often ranging from several thousand dollars. Some patients may also need to travel to access qualified providers.

9. Does Compton Eye Associates perform keratopigmentation?
No, we do not perform this procedure. We specialize in safe, FDA-approved alternatives like colored contact lenses.

10. How can I schedule an appointment with Compton Eye Associates?
Call us at 800-936-0036 or visit our Manhattan office to explore your options for eye color and vision health.