While this is not something I have experienced personally there are thousands of people who have faced this very difficult decision.

My advise to you would be to make an appointment with an ocularist (person who makes artificial eyes). The ocularist should be able to introduce you to someone else who has been through a similar experience. They will also talk you through the whole process which may relieve you of some angst.

There may be a several options available to you.

The first would be to try a soft coloured contact lens. If this works for you it is the least invasive option. Secondly, you may be able to wear a scleral lens. This is a hard lens similar to a contact lens which covers the whole eye. It is opaque and painted to match your other eye.

In the event that you require an operation to have the blind eye removed, the volume of the eye is replaced with a ball which has the muscles attached to it. In this case you would have an eye prosthesis which is similar to a scleral lens which fits over the ball and under the lids. The artificial eye should have good movement and look quite natural.

It is all well illustrated at http://www.artificialeyes.net If you look at the mind map on adjusting to eye loss and click on each of the branches then you will find a full explanation of each. This site also has a find an ocularist page which should be helpful in finding an ocularist close to you. Your Ophthalmologist may also have an idea as to who makes a great prosthesis.

There is a support group in Australia for people with artificial eyes. They would love to hear from you. You will find them very supportive. You can contact Jo through http://www.arteyes.org.au

We wish you the best and hope you find some peace. There are some great stories on the http://www.geelen.com.au site which would also benefit you from reading other peoples experiences.