Social media has turned certain medical procedures into trends. One of the most recent examples is the permanent change of eye colour, which is often presented as a simple and risk-free procedure. However, professionals warn that these procedures carry significant risks to eye health, some of which can be serious and irreversible.
All the techniques currently available carry risks
There are currently three main procedures used to change the colour of the iris for aesthetic reasons. They differ in terms of invasiveness, effectiveness and safety profile, but all of them can cause side effects. Additionally, in most cases, they are used outside the medical applications for which they were originally intended.
Keratopigmentation or corneal tattooing
Laser-assisted keratopigmentation creates a small circular tunnel in the corneal stroma, the transparent layer in front of the iris, through which mineral pigments are injected to achieve the desired colour.
Studies report good colour stability over time. However, this is not a risk-free technique. Cases of light sensitivity, reduced visual fields and partial pigment loss have been reported. In some patients, the result may appear unnatural, which can have a negative impact both aesthetically and psychologically. In addition, this technique can also make it harder to examine the inside of the eye during future surgeries, such as cataract operations.
Laser depigmentation of the iris
This procedure does not add colour, but lightens the natural colour of the eye. A laser is used to remove melanin from the surface of the iris, exposing the underlying fibres, which are typically grey or bluish. This procedure is completely irreversible: once the melanin has been removed, it cannot be restored.
The colour change is gradual and often requires several sessions. This procedure has notable limitations: patients cannot select a specific colour, as it only reveals their natural underlying shade. Potential side effects include inflammation of the iris and increased intraocular pressure. Both of these symptoms are serious, require intensive treatment and can lead to irreversible damage. Furthermore, there is still no solid scientific evidence on the long-term safety of the procedure outside of highly controlled clinical studies.
Cosmetic iris implants
Among all available techniques, this procedure is the most controversial and carries the greatest risk. It consists of placing a coloured silicone implant over the natural iris, in the anterior chamber of the eye. While it allows for an immediate and very noticeable change in colour, it is associated with a high rate of serious complications.
Reported cases include glaucoma, severe eye inflammation, intraocular bleeding, cataracts and corneal damage, which may ultimately require a corneal transplant. Many patients eventually need the implant removed, sometimes years after the initial procedure. Furthermore, these devices are not approved by the main international regulatory bodies.
Why do some people decide to change their eye colour?
Although these procedures were initially developed to treat eye conditions that affected vision or the normal appearance of the eye, today nine out of ten people seek them for purely aesthetic reasons.
This decision is influenced by a combination of psychological and social factors. In some cases, professional requirements, particularly in industries where appearance is important, can influence the decision. In others, it may be about identity-related issues, such as the desire to resemble other family members. Social dynamics may also play a role, such as a partner’s preferences or the wish to fit in and avoid discrimination.
Social media has played a decisive role in this phenomenon, with narratives frequently shared by celebrities and influencers tending to minimise or obscure the associated risks.
Safe alternatives for changing eye colour
For those who want to change the appearance of their eyes with the lowest possible risk, cosmetic contact lenses remain the safest option. Historically, this method has been used both to address aesthetic concerns and to manage disorders affecting iris colour.
Unlike surgical procedures, coloured contact lenses do not permanently alter the anatomy of the eye. Although they require proper hygiene and responsible use to prevent infections, they do not entail risks as serious as those associated with the procedures described above.
Permanent eye colour change may seem aesthetically appealing, but when it comes to visual health, any decision should be supported by accurate information, specialist medical advice, and a careful assessment of potential short- and long-term risks.
INFORMATION DOCUMENTED BY:
Dr Marc Figueras-Roca, Ophthalmology Department at Hospital Clínic Barcelona.
