the invention provides an ocular socket prosthesis comprising a hydrogel consisting essentially of a biocompatible hydrophilic polymer onto which tissues can be directly sutured . preferably the prosthesis comprises the polymer both in its homogeneous gel form and in its sponge form , and the two forms are chemically joined at their interface via an interpenetrating polymer network . however , it is also contemplated that the prosthesis of the invention may be made predominantly or entirely from the sponge form of the polymer . methods of production of the prosthesis of the invention and of surgical implantation are also disclosed and claimed .