Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler is gaining attention for a unique cosmetic eye procedure that changes the color of a person’s eyes.
Based in Beverly Hills, California, Dr. Boxer Wachler runs the Boxer Wachler Vision Institute and has spent nearly three decades specializing in corneas. While he performs standard LASIK procedures to correct vision, he is best known for offering the ColorEyes™ Keratopigmentation procedure — a surgery that can lighten, darken, or completely change the color of a person’s iris.
He previously specialized in treating keratoconus, an eye disease that distorts the shape of the cornea. His expertise in creating precise corneal tunnels for implants led him to explore the possibility of changing eye color safely.
Although the procedure has been performed in Europe for years, Dr. Boxer Wachler initially had safety concerns. After conducting extensive research, he determined it was safe and began offering it in early 2024.
How the Procedure Works
The eye color change surgery involves three main steps:
Laser Tunnel Creation
A laser is used to create a circular tunnel just beneath the surface of the cornea.
Manual Shaping
Because the cornea is slightly oval-shaped, Dr. Boxer Wachler manually extends and sculpts the channel using custom instruments. He compares it to shaping a doughnut, ensuring the tunnel matches the natural contour of the cornea while leaving space at the edges for a natural appearance.
Pigment Insertion
A specially formulated eye-safe dye, made in France, is inserted into the tunnel to achieve the desired eye color.
The intensity of the dye can be adjusted depending on the chosen shade. Standard natural eye colors are most commonly requested, though custom blends are available.
Why People Choose the Procedure
According to Dr. Boxer Wachler, patients typically seek the surgery for three main reasons:
Personal change or self-improvement, particularly among women in their 40s and 50s who want to treat themselves.
Frustration with colored contact lenses, which can dry out eyes and become inconvenient.
Family differences, such as being the only sibling with brown eyes in a family of lighter-eyed relatives.
Safety and Eligibility
The doctor states the procedure is largely safe. However, he does not recommend it for people with:
Glaucoma
Active eye inflammation
He also prefers not to perform the procedure on patients who have previously had LASIK surgery, although some other surgeons may.
Procedure and Recovery
The surgery typically takes less than one hour.
It is designed to be painless.
Patients are advised to rest for the remainder of the day.Temporary light sensitivity and mild scratchiness may occur.
Any unusual symptoms require contacting the doctor, though complications are reportedly uncommon.
Cost
$6,000 per eye for standard colors
Custom color blends cost more
Dr. Boxer Wachler says patient satisfaction is extremely high and describes the procedure as rewarding, especially for those who have wanted a different eye color since their teenage years.