Oculoplastic Surgery

Oculoplastic surgery is plastic surgery for the structures surrounding the eye, including eyelids, tear ducts, and the face.

Also known as oculoplasty, oculoplastics, or ocular plastic surgery, the procedure is performed for cosmetic and medical purposes.

Ophthalmologists with additional training in plastic or reconstructive surgery perform oculoplastic surgery. If you think you may need oculoplastic surgery, get in touch with an ophthalmologist at Kellis Eye & Laser Center.

What Is Oculoplastic Surgery Used For?

An opthalmologist performs oculoplastic surgery for medical and cosmetic issues related to the structures around the eyes, including:

• Droopy eyelids
• Eyelids that turn inward
• Eyelids that turn outward
• Tear duct disorder
• Orbital fractures
• Eye malignancies
• Weaknesses of the eyes and eyelids
• Eye trauma injuries
• Birth defects involving the eyes and the eye socket
• Fallen eyebrows
• Excess upper eyelid skin
• Bulging lower eyelid

Types Of Oculoplastic Surgery

Oculoplastic surgery encompasses a wide range of surgical procedures, including:

Ptosis Repair

Ptosis is the medical name for drooping of the top eyelid. When the eyelid partially or completely blocks the pupil, it can reduce the field of vision.

Ectropion Repair

Ectropion is a condition in which the lower eyelid sags away from the eye, exposing the eye. Ectropion can cause a range of problems, including eye irritation, soreness, discharge, and more.

Entropion Repair

“Entropion" refers to a condition in which the eyelid rolls inward toward the pupil. It can happen due to getting older and particular eyelid muscles deteriorating.

Reconstructive

Reconstruction with oculoplastic surgery is typically performed after skin cancer is removed from an area around the eyes.

Orbital Tumor Surgery

This is a type of oculoplastic surgery that consists of removing a malignant growth from the orbit of the eye. The orbit is the bone surrounding the eye.

Tear Duct Surgery

Depending on where the obstruction or closure is, tear duct surgery may involve the examination and rebuilding of any area within the eye irrigation system.

CO2 Laser for Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery has been greatly improved by advanced techniques involving the CO2 laser. This laser minimizes bruising, swelling and recovery time experienced with older techniques. In the upper eyelid, the CO2 laser is used to remove the excess amount of skin and fat along the natural eyelid crease line. Once healed, these incision lines are not noticeable, because they are hidden in the natural crease of the eyelid.

In lower eyelid surgery, the lower eyelid incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, enabling the oculoplastic surgeon to remove excess fat without an external incision. Depending on the patient’s particular condition, the CO2 laser can then be utilized in the resurfacing mode to smooth out all fine lines and wrinkles on the lower eyelid.

Am I A Candidate For Oculoplastic Surgery?

Your ophthalmologist will determine if you are a good candidate for oculoplastic surgery.

In general, a good candidate:

• Has no underlying condition that may hinder proper healing
• Is not a smoker
• Has realistic expectations regarding the outcome
• May have a medical need for oculoplastic surgery
• Has an eye issue that can be readily addressed with oculoplastic surgery

If you have an eye issue and are curious about the potential benefits of oculoplastic surgery, consult with an ophthalmologist at Kellis Eye & Laser Center.