
A bold new frontier in cosmetic enhancement
In the ever-evolving world of beauty and self-expression, a new cosmetic procedure is making waves across the United States—permanent eye color change surgery. Spearheading this trend is Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler, a 57-year-old Los Angeles-based ophthalmologist who has gained widespread attention for his expertise in the procedure known as keratopigmentation.
With over 3.4 million followers on TikTok and 319,000 fans on Instagram, Dr. Brian regularly shares dramatic before-and-after transformations, igniting both fascination and debate among netizens.
How the procedure works
Keratopigmentation is a cutting-edge technique that involves injecting pigment into the cornea, permanently altering its color. The minimally invasive procedure takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes per eye and is performed under numbing drops, making it virtually painless for patients.
Using an advanced laser, a circular tunnel is created within the cornea, which is then widened to blend seamlessly with the eye’s natural structure. The pigment is then injected, instantly transforming the patient’s eye color. Recovery is remarkably swift, with most patients returning to normal activities within a day.
The cost of this cosmetic enhancement, however, is significantly priced at $6,000 per eye, totaling $12,000.
Safety and side effects
Dr. Brian reassures that keratopigmentation is a “very safe” procedure, emphasizing that there is “no loss of vision in healthy eyes without prior LASIK.” Temporary side effects such as scratchiness and light sensitivity may occur but typically subside within hours.
Patients have the option to choose from a range of colors, including emerald green, evergreen, riviera blue, and Paris blue, though honey gold, steel grey, and olive green remain the most sought-after shades.
Social media reactions: Fascination and fear
While many patients express overwhelming joy after undergoing the procedure, the internet remains divided.
“After the procedure, my patients are amazed. Incredibly happy, sometimes crying with tears of joy,” Dr. Brian told The New York Post.
However, skeptics on social media have voiced their concerns. “This is so creepy,” one user commented, while another described it as “dystopian.” A third remarked, “This is scarier than any horror film I have seen.”
Despite the controversy, Dr. Brian believes the procedure offers profound psychological benefits. “Many individuals see their eye color as integral to their identity and choose to change it for self-expression or to enhance alignment between their inner self and outward appearance,” he explained.
Some critics acknowledge the potential of keratopigmentation but believe the technology still has room for improvement. “I like the concept; however, it looks like it needs more work. Maybe in the years to come, the science will improve the scary ass,” one person remarked.
The future of cosmetic eye color change
As with any emerging cosmetic trend, keratopigmentation is drawing both excitement and scrutiny. While some view it as a groundbreaking innovation in personal aesthetics, others remain cautious about its long-term effects.
Whether it becomes a mainstream beauty enhancement or remains a niche procedure, one thing is certain—permanent eye color change surgery is pushing the boundaries of cosmetic transformation like never before.