Cuban artists like La Diosa and Osmani García are currently flaunting striking blue eyes achieved through keratopigmentation, an innovative cosmetic technique that uses lasers to alter eye color. However, this method, which changes eye color from brown to blue, is raising concerns within the international ophthalmology community, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, due to potential risks and the lack of conclusive studies ensuring its safety.
The technique, currently offered in some specialized centers in the country, involves using a laser to eliminate the cells containing the brown pigment in the eyes. In theory, by removing these cells, the eyes should appear blue—indicating the absence of pigmentation—but ophthalmologists are worried about how the body disposes of these destroyed cells.
There is a risk that the dead cells may not be properly eliminated and could accumulate in the eye, potentially increasing ocular tension and leading to severe complications like glaucoma or uveitis, experts caution.
Therapeutic Uses and Rising Popularity
Moreover, keratopigmentation is not solely for cosmetic purposes. For years, it has been a therapeutic option for patients with conditions like severe photophobia, aniridia, or iris coloboma, where it is used to reduce light scatter or improve the appearance of leukomas. Nevertheless, its aesthetic use has surged in popularity since 2010, and many Cubans have recently heard about this technique through public figures like La Diosa and Osmani García, who even posed together showcasing their blue eyes.
In the United States, the approximate cost of this surgery is $12,000, or $8,000 when on promotion, but it comes with a list of potential complications such as light sensitivity, irregular coloration, and possible defects in the visual field. A study conducted by Alio et al., which evaluated complications in 234 eyes of 204 patients, found that 12.82% of the cases experienced some form of complication, with light sensitivity being the most common.
Until clinical trials are completed and the procedure's safety is fully verified, experts recommend that those interested in changing their eye color opt for less invasive solutions, such as cosmetic contact lenses.
Keratopigmentation: Risks and Alternatives
As the popularity of keratopigmentation grows, many are curious about the risks and safer alternatives associated with the procedure. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
What are the potential risks of keratopigmentation?
The potential risks include increased ocular tension, glaucoma, uveitis, light sensitivity, irregular coloration, and possible defects in the visual field.
How much does keratopigmentation cost in the United States?
The surgery costs approximately $12,000, or $8,000 during promotions.
Are there safer alternatives to keratopigmentation for changing eye color?
Yes, experts recommend cosmetic contact lenses as a less invasive and safer alternative to changing eye color.