Recovery after loss of an eye.

Recovery after loss of one eye requires an adjustment to monocular vision and resolution of a significant, serious emotional trauma. The impact on everyday life is not well documented. We surveyed 125 monocular patients by questionnaire regarding their recovery. Eighty-five of 125 respondents reported that loss of one eye had not changed their life in any permanent way. Only seven reported persistent visual problems, whereas 12 described problems in employment and 21 had anxiety or poor self-image. Among 49 adults who had suddenly lost a sighted eye, 50% reported that their adjustment period for driving, work, recreation, home activities, or walking was less than 1 month. Ninety-three percent thought that their adjustment was completed by 1 year. In conclusion, most patients were able to resume everyday activities after a short period of adjustment. Problems with employment and self-image were frequent, but visual problems were unusual.