A British man was the first patient in the world to get a 3D-printed prosthetic eye, according to Moorfields Eye Hospital in London.
Steve Ferris, 47, an engineer from London, received his left eye on Thursday and tried it for the first time earlier this month.
Moorfields Eye Hospital said in a press release that the suit It is the first fully digital artificial eye created for a patient.
The hospital said the ocular prosthesis is more realistic than other alternatives and is designed for “more accurate definition and pupil depth with real.”
Other artificial eyes consist of a hand-drawn iris on a disc that is then inserted into the eye socket.
However, this design prevents light from passing through the entire depth of the eye, according to the hospital.
In addition to a more realistic appearance, the procedure is also considered less invasive.
Possibility to reduce waiting time “by half”
The 3D image was sent to Germany to be printed before being sent back to the UK, where it was completed and polished by an ophthalmologist (a specialist who specializes in the manufacture of eye prostheses) from Moorfields Eye Hospital.
“I’ve needed a prosthetic since I was 20 and have always felt insecure about it,” Fierz said in the statement.
“When I leave the house, I often look in the mirror again, and I don’t like what I see. This new eye is great, and because it is based on 3D digital printing technology, it will do much better.”
Moorfields Hospital said 3D printing has the potential to “cut” the time it takes to develop an artificial eye in half – from six weeks to two or three.
A CNN spokesperson told CNN that clinical trials involving more patients will begin soon.
Mandeep Sajo, project leader at Moorfields Eye Hospital and professor of ophthalmology and ophthalmic oncology at University College London, said he was excited about the possibilities of the new method.
“We hope that upcoming clinical trials will provide us with strong evidence of the value of this new technology, to show the difference it is making to patients,” he said.
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Charlotte Whitmore is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and practical information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the UK and beyond.