Purpose To evaluate the use and safety of temporary, cosmetic, painted prostheses as an alternative to clear conformers immediately post removal of eye or socket surgery in children and adults. Patients and methods A 2-year, two-centre, retrospective audit of 54 patients undergoing enucleation, evisceration, secondary implant or socket reconstruction receiving a temporary painted prosthesis as an alternative to clear conformers immediately post surgery. Patient questionnaire and review of clinical notes was conducted for all patients. Results We reviewed 54 consecutive patients (22 females, 32 males, mean age 18.6 years, range 6 days to 82 years) who