Key points from article :
Keratopigmentation, a surgical procedure initially designed to improve the appearance of damaged eyes, is gaining popularity as a cosmetic trend to change eye colour, raising concerns among experts.
The procedure involves injecting pigments into the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, to mask the natural iris color, but it can lead to complications like light sensitivity, corneal damage, and even blindness.
While the procedure is not offered for purely cosmetic reasons in the UK, individuals are seeking it abroad, despite warnings from eye specialists about potential long-term risks.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology has also issued warnings about keratopigmentation and similar procedures, emphasizing the serious risks of vision loss and complications for those seeking cosmetic eye colour changes.
Experts recommend using coloured contact lenses, prescribed and dispensed by a professional, as a safer alternative for those wanting to change their eye colour.
The first world congress on keratopigmentation aims to establish evidence-based protocols for both therapeutic and cosmetic use, highlighting the need for proper training and patient selection for this procedure.
