Cuban artists like The Goddess And Osmani Garcia currently show striking blue eyes, which are Keratopigmentationan innovative cosmetic technique that uses lasers to change eye color. However, this method, which changes eye color from brown to blue, is raising concerns in the international ophthalmology community, including American Academy of Ophthalmologydue to potential risks and the lack of conclusive studies ensuring its safety.
The technique, currently offered in some specialized centers in the country, uses a laser to remove the cells that contain the brown pigment in the eyes. In theory, removing these cells should make the eyes appear blue – indicating a lack of pigment – but ophthalmologists are concerned about how the body disposes of these destroyed cells.
There is a risk that the dead cells are not removed properly and accumulate in the eye, potentially increasing intraocular pressure and leading to serious complications such as glaucoma or Uveitisexperts warn.
Therapeutic applications and increasing popularity
In addition, keratopigmentation does not only serve cosmetic purposes. For years it has been a therapeutic option for patients with conditions such as severe photophobia, aniridia or iris coloboma, where it is used to reduce light scattering or improve the appearance of leukoma. Nevertheless, its aesthetic application has become increasingly popular since 2010, and many Cubans have recently learned about this technique through public figures such as La Diosa and Osmani García, who even posed together showing off their blue eyes.
In the United States, the cost of this surgery is approximately $12,000, or $8,000 on special offer, but it comes with a list of possible complications, such as sensitivity to light, irregular discoloration, and possible defects in the visual field. A study by Alio et al.in which complications were evaluated in 234 eyes of 204 patients, found that in 12.82% of cases some form of complication occurred, the most common being photosensitivity.
Until clinical trials are completed and the safety of the procedure is fully confirmed, experts recommend that people who want to change their eye color choose less invasive solutions such as cosmetic contact lenses.
Keratopigmentation: risks and alternatives
As keratopigmentation becomes more popular, many are curious about the risks associated with the procedure and safer alternatives. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
What are the potential risks of keratopigmentation?
Potential risks include increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, uveitis, sensitivity to light, irregular discoloration, and possible visual field defects.
How much does keratopigmentation cost in the USA?
The cost of the operation is approximately $12,000, or $8,000 during promotional periods.
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.
