Heterochromia: Why Some People Have Two Different Eye Colours
Quick answer: Heterochromia means the irises are different colours, either completely (one brown, one blue), in a segment (sectoral), or as a ring of different colour around the pupil (central). When present from birth it is usually harmless and genetic. A change in eye colour later in life is acquired heterochromia and should be checked, as it can be caused by inflammation, injury, bleeding, some glaucoma drops or, rarely, tumours.
Noticed this in your own eyes? Book an eye examination (NPR 400) with an optometrist at Vision Concern Lazimpat, Boudha-Tushal or Makalbari. WhatsApp +977 9841466716.
Related service: Comprehensive eye examination (NPR 400) at Vision Concern Lazimpat, Boudha-Tushal and Makalbari.
Types of heterochromia
- Complete: each iris a different colour
- Sectoral (partial): a wedge or patch of different colour in one iris
- Central: an inner ring around the pupil differs from the outer iris
Causes
Eye colour depends on melanin pigment in the iris. Congenital heterochromia is usually a harmless genetic variation, and occasionally linked to conditions such as Horner syndrome or Waardenburg syndrome. Acquired causes include iritis, injury, bleeding in the eye, pigment dispersion, prostaglandin glaucoma drops (which can darken the iris) and, rarely, iris tumours.
What to do
If you have had different coloured eyes since childhood and your eyes are otherwise healthy, no treatment is needed. If one eye has changed colour, or a new spot has appeared on the iris, have an eye examination so it can be assessed and photographed for comparison. Coloured contact lenses can make eye colours match for cosmetic reasons after a proper fitting.
When to get urgent care
Get prompt care if a colour change comes with pain, redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, a recent injury or a growing spot on the iris.
How Vision Concern can help
Vision Concern optometrists in Kathmandu can examine your eyes, record what they find for comparison, update your glasses or contact lenses, and refer you to an ophthalmologist or eye hospital when medical treatment is needed. Vision Concern does not perform surgery or injections.
Frequently asked questions
Is heterochromia rare?
Complete heterochromia is rare; central and small sectoral heterochromia are more common.
Can eye colour change in adults?
A small change can happen with age, but a noticeable change in one eye should be checked.
Can I wear coloured contact lenses to match my eyes?
Yes, after a contact lens fitting with an optometrist.
This guide is general information from the Vision Concern editorial team. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an eye examination or medical advice.
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