Jack Titus with Dr. Alexander Movshovich, who did his eye colour change surgery. CNN
Changing eye colour used to be a matter of using tinted contact lenses, a cosmetic option that dates back to the 1940s. However, a newer trend involves surgical procedures that can make this change permanent. This has gained popularity in Europe over the past decade and is now making waves in the United States, partly fueled by dramatic before-and-after photos shared on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
One such procedure, known as keratopigmentation, has been gaining attention. This technique involves injecting pigment into the cornea to alter the eye colour. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved iris implants for people missing part of their iris, no eye colour change procedures have been approved for purely cosmetic reasons. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has recently issued warnings about potential risks associated with these procedures, including vision loss and other complications.
Jack Titus, who underwent a keratopigmentation procedure, now sports blue-gray eyes instead of his original brown. Despite the warnings, Titus expresses satisfaction with his results. “I love the result. Every day when I wake up, it’s much more easy for me,” he says.
Jack Titus underwent a procedure to change his brown eyes to blue. CNN
Keratopigmentation involves creating a tiny channel in the cornea through which pigment is injected. This procedure is somewhat akin to a tattoo for the eye, but instead of multiple openings, it requires only one or two small ones. Dr. Alexander Movshovich, who developed a specialized tool for this process, emphasizes that the pigment is sealed within a protected space, reducing the risk of leakage.
The cost of this procedure can be around $12,000, and since it is cosmetic, it is not covered by insurance. Movshovich, who has performed nearly 1,000 of these surgeries, admits he was initially skeptical about their safety. However, after seeing successful cases in France, he became convinced of its potential. “I said, ‘Bullsh*t, you cannot do it,’” he recalled, noting that his views changed after further research and observation.
Dr. Ashley Brissette, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, has voiced concerns about the safety of these procedures, citing risks such as dye leakage, allergic reactions, and potential damage to the cornea. These issues could lead to symptoms like light sensitivity, glare, or even vision loss.
A 2023 study from France found that while many patients experienced some temporary pain, dry eyes, and glare, most were pleased with their results. Movshovich reassures that he takes extensive precautions to minimize infection risks, using sterile techniques and high-quality materials.
Reva Stout wanted a lighter brown for her eyes. She was happy with the result after the initial procedure but returned for a touch-up to achieve a more natural look. CNN
Patients seeking to change their eye colour often have varied motivations. Some feel their natural eye colour doesn’t reflect their true selves, while others believe that lighter eye colours are linked to certain traits or success. Reva Stout, who longed for a lighter shade of brown, took the leap after growing tired of contacts. She describes the procedure as quick and painless, and she is pleased with her new eye colour.
Jack Titus also reports satisfaction with his new eye colour and has had no significant issues since the procedure. “Now, with my new colour, I just look like myself,” he says.
