Wealth Advisor Trades In Fortune For Eyes Of Steel As She Undergoes 12000 Blue Eye Surgery

From Brown to Blue: A $12,000 Eye Surgery Investment

Ulku Dogan, a 49-year-old San Francisco-based wealth advisor, recently underwent a cosmetic keratopigmentation procedure to permanently change her eye color from brown to blue. The surgery, which costs $12,000, has been gaining traction online, but its FDA approval status remains uncertain.

Dogan wore colored contact lenses for two decades to achieve the desired blue hue, but she felt it was only a temporary solution. After consulting with a plastic surgeon friend who had undergone the same procedure, she booked an appointment with Dr. Kevin Niksarli, one of the few ophthalmic surgeons in the US offering this service.

Niksarli’s laser-assisted keratopigmentation procedure involves creating a channel in the cornea and filling it with colored dye to achieve the desired shade. Dogan opted for a brighter blue shade, which was achieved after her initial consultation. The surgery is painless and fast, with no reported side effects beyond minor discomfort on the first night and light sensitivity for a few days.

Some medical professionals have raised concerns about the procedure’s safety and potential long-term risks, while others have witnessed promising results. Dr. Alexander Movshovich attributes the procedure’s success to careful patient selection and consultation. “This procedure is safe when done correctly,” he emphasizes.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) has issued a warning about the potential risks associated with cosmetic eye treatments, including infections, light sensitivity, and damage to the cornea that could lead to cloudiness, warpage, fluid leakage, and vision loss. Patients contemplating these procedures for aesthetic reasons alone are advised to weigh the serious risks against the potential benefits.

Dogan is thrilled with her results, stating that the surgery was the “best investment” she’s ever made in herself. As she now enjoys the confidence that comes with having permanent blue eyes, she acknowledges that some risks are inherent in any surgical procedure. Dr. Julian Prosia, a board-certified optometrist based in Canada, notes that patients may prefer to use colored contacts for cosmetic benefits instead of risking long-term side effects.

Despite its uncertain FDA approval status, keratopigmentation’s popularity continues to grow, with many patients seeking the aesthetic appeal of permanent eye color changes. As the field evolves, it’s essential for patients and medical professionals alike to carefully consider the benefits and risks involved.