What happens to the eyes during embalming?
Eyes and lips are not sewn or glued shut. An "eye cap" is placed under each eyelid and over the eyeball. The eyes may soften over time, but the eye cap helps retain the shape. A cream is placed on the lips to keep them together.
Embalming Process Overview
- The funeral director washes the body with soap and water and positions it with hands crossed over the abdomen.
- Solutions are used to keep the eyes closed and improve appearance. Morticians may suture the eyelids shut or add caps to prevent a sunken look.
Eyes Preservation Techniques
- An "eye cap" is placed under each eyelid and over the eyeball to retain shape.
- Tissue builder may be injected into the eyeball, and sometimes, embalming fluid fills the eye to normal size.
Embalming and Decomposition
- Embalmed bodies are kept refrigerated, which slows down the decomposition process.
- It takes years for an embalmed body to decompose if properly preserved.
What Happens After Death
- Autopsy may be performed if needed. Funeral homes may refuse viewing under inappropriate circumstances.
- Chemicals are used during embalming to preserve tissues and prevent decomposition. Eyes are typically not removed.