top of page
Oculoplastic surgery can treat a wide range of eye problems to help better your vision.
What is
oculoplastics?
Oculoplastics, sometimes known as oculoplastic surgery, is a specialist form of eye care that deals with all of the structures around the eye. This includes the tear system (also known as the lacrimal system), the eyelids and the bone cavity around the eye (also known as the orbit).
Oculoplastic surgeons — also called ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgeons, or oculo-facial surgeons — have an expert understanding of the function of the eyelids and structures around them. They are experts in the anatomy of these, and they are highly trained in correcting both functional and cosmetic problems in this area.
The procedures used in oculoplastics range from simple processes, such as correcting eyelid malpositions, to more complex reconstructions involving the eyelids and the surrounding forehead and cheek areas.
Types of oculoplastics
Ptosis
treatment
Ptosis is the condition where the upper eyelid droops over the eye. This may only be to a minor degree, or it may be so pronounced as to cover the pupil of the eye a little, or to such an extent that it can limit or even completely block normal vision. This may also cause one's brow to ache.
This condition can have a number of causes and therefore a number of remedies that the surgeon will assess on a case-by-case basis.
Blepharoplasty
(Cosmetic surgery)
Blepharoplasty is a type of plastic surgery that can repair drooping eyelids. This may involve removing excess skin, muscle and fat from the upper or lower eyelids. This may be either for aesthetic reasons or if the excess skin is having an effect on your peripheral vision.
Anybody who is considering having cosmetic eyelid surgery should seek the help of an oculoplastic surgeon. An oculoplastic surgeon can make a full assessment of not only the lids, but also the surface health of the eyes and the function of the eyelids, before advising the correct treatment.
Ectropion or entropion
treatment
Ectropion is a condition where the eyelid turns outwards. This leaves the inner surface of the eyelid exposed and therefore prone to irritation. This condition normally affects older adults, and it generally affects the lower eyelid alone.
Entropion is a condition where your eyelid turns inwards. This means that the eyelashes and skin rub against the surface of the eye which can be uncomfortable and can cause irritation. The eyelid may be turned in permanently or only when blinking hard or when squeezing the eyelids shut.
These conditions commonly happen with ageing due to normal stretching of the tissues that support the lid. There may be other possible causes, though, so the oculoplastic surgeon will need to assess each case to recommend an appropriate way forward.
Surgery is often required for ectropion and entropion. It can be done as a day case under local anaesthetic.
Watery eyes
treatment
Having constant watery eyes can be quite a distressing condition. This can be caused by either an excessive amount of tears being produced or by a problem with the drainage of the tears.
An oculoplastic surgeon will assess the root cause of the watering and devise an appropriate management plan to treat the problem. Often relatively simple treatments can have a very positive effect on those with watery eyes. However, occasionally, surgery may be helpful.
At your consultation, your oculoplastic surgeon will be able to advise what type of surgery would be suitable.
Facial palsy
The term ‘facial palsy’ generally refers to a weakness of the facial muscles which results from temporary or permanent damage to the facial nerve. This means that the facial muscles do not receive the necessary signals in order to function properly, resulting in paralysis of the affected part of the face. This can affect the movement of the eye(s) and/or the mouth, as well as other areas.
The help of an oculoplastic surgeon is often needed because the ability of the eyelids to close can be affected, which puts the eye at risk of exposure.
The oculoplastic surgeon can make an assessment of the damage to the function of the eyelid and advise on appropriate management. This may mean simple measures like lubricant eye drops, but surgery is also needed in some cases.
Eyelid tumours and lumps
There are many types of lumps that can affect the eyelids. Many are benign but they can, in some cases, be cancerous.
If you have a lump that you are worried about onyour eyelid, an oculoplastic surgeon can assess it for you, offer you a diagnosis and provide treatment for you if you need it. Removal of benign eyelid lumps is often a quick procedure that is carried out underlocal anaesthetic.
Other conditions helped by oculoplastics
There are other conditions that can be helped by oculoplastics, such as facial palsy and eyelid tumours or lumps. Oculoplastics can be used to restore the movement of the eyelid and remove potential lumps that disturb your vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
One of the most common types of oculoplastic surgery includes cosmetic surgery for your eyelids and the removal of lumps or tumours from the eyelid.
After you have oculoplastic surgery, your eyelid can be swollen or bruised for up to three weeks. Full results and recovery can take up to three months, but you should be ready to go back to work within 14 days. It can also depend on what you had treated and how severe your condition was.
You must avoid strenuous activities for at least five days after your surgery. You will also need to avoid bending, heavy lifting and intense exercise for up to three weeks. Recovery can look different for everyone, and you may be ready sooner or later than other people - it all depends on your body.
Oculoplastic surgery is considered safe, but there are potential risks such as infection. However, when you choose a reputable clinic like SANA, this risk can be reduced.
As well as cosmetic benefits, oculoplastic surgery can enhance your vision by correcting problems caused by drooping, sagging or other abnormalities that disturb your vision.
The cost of oculoplastic surgery can vary as it will all depend on the type of surgery you have. Speak with a member of our team for further pricing information.
bottom of page