The Basic Guide to Oculoplasty Surgery!

Oculoplasty is a specialized branch of ophthalmology that focuses on treating medical problems with the eye or its surrounding tissues. Many experts also refer to it as ophthalmic plastic surgery. Surgery may be a great option for anyone suffering from painful eye illnesses, visual problems, injuries, or health concerns. It is also an excellent choice for those seeking a lifted, young, or more vivid appearance around the eyes or eyelids. This article shares information about oculoplasty, including its importance, available procedures, recovery, and more.

What is Oculoplasty?

Oculoplasty is also referred to as ophthalmic or oculoplastic surgery. The surgery is performed to treat diseases and abnormalities in the tissues surrounding the eyes. These conditions may be present from birth, develop with age, result from injury or disease, or require surgical intervention for cosmetic reasons. Oculoplastic procedures restore normal function, improve appearance, and ensure better protection for the eyes.​

Why is an oculoplasty procedure carried out?

Oculoplastic surgery is usually done for the following reasons:

Congenital

Ophthalmic surgery is used to treat congenital defects such as eyelid gaps, aberrant eyelid position, abnormal orbit shape and size, clogged tear drainage tubes, and so forth.

Traumatic (Injury)

Oculoplasty procedures are performed to heal eyelid injuries, scar formation, orbito-facial fractures, loss of eyeball, and so forth. The procedure can result in improved eye function and appearance.

Blocked tear ducts

Oculoplastic surgery is used to treat blocked tear ducts. Clogged tear ducts can cause watering of the eyes and drainage. This can also result in recurring infections of the eyes and other parts of the face, which pose a major threat to life and eyesight.

Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid illnesses can cause major difficulties with the eyelids and orbits, among other things. If medications do not work, oculoplastic surgery is required to treat the disorders.

Age-related

The operation can be used to treat issues such as in- or out-turning of the eyelids, rubbing of the eyelashes on the eye, droopy and loose eyelids, eyelid bags, herniation of orbital fat, and other diseases.   Oculoplasty techniques can successfully address these concerns.

Tumor

Oculoplastic surgery treats tumors and malignancies of the eyelids and orbits. These procedures can save lives and vision.

Types of Oculoplasty Procedures

• Blepharoplasty (eyelid lift/removal of excess tissue)

• Eyelid repair (congenital or injury-related)

• Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) and Dacryocystectomy (DCT) for blocked tear ducts

• Orbit reconstruction after injuries

• Removal of eyelid, orbital, and facial tumors

• Correction of in-turning or out-turning eyelids​

Common Oculoplasty Procedures

Brow Lifts

A brow lift is often performed to fix drooping brows and eliminate forehead wrinkles. Surgery raises the brow tissue and minimizes 'frown' lines. A brow lift is combined with blepharoplasty to provide more dramatic effects.

Droopy eyelids (Ptosis)

Droopy eyelids, also known as eyelid ptosis, are caused when the primary muscle responsible for lifting the eyelid weakens or becomes floppy.  The illness can be minor or severe, affecting either one or both eyes.  In children, ptosis may be caused by faulty muscle growth in the upper eyelid.  However, in adults, it is frequently the result of age or eye injuries.

Excessive tearing

The lacrimal and eyelid glands generate tears, which are required to protect and moisten the eyes. However, aberrant tears might clog the tear ducts. This is a very common illness that can be caused by drugs or allergies, but age can also play a role.

Eyelid surgery

Cosmetic/Aesthetic procedures include:

• upper eyelid blepharoplasty, which removes extra skin and hooding.

• lower eyelid blepharoplasty, which reduces bags by removing excess skin and subcutaneous fat.

Eye removal

Complete removal of the eye, as well as the connective tissue and muscles, is often performed in the presence of a malignant orbital tumor. The inside of the eye is removed, leaving just the scleral shell; this is typically done to relieve discomfort in a blind eye.

Conclusion

If you are seeking oculoplasty services, Drishti Eye Hospital provides expert care led by skilled oculoplastic surgeons. The hospital offers comprehensive evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and advanced surgical methods to restore eye function and appearance. Our ophthalmologists are experienced in the field of oculoplasty, a blend of ophthalmology and cosmetic surgery. Contact us or book your consultation for oculoplastic eye surgery.​

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would someone go to an oculoplastic surgeon?

There are typically two reasons why a patient sees an oculoplastic surgeon. The first is attributable to symptoms of aging, such as muscle drooping around the eye.

Another reason to see a specialist is if you have a medical condition, such as an illness, tumor, infection, inflammation, or a lid deformity. The oculoplastic surgery treats laceration or deformity surrounding the eyelids.

How long will the oculoplasty surgery take?

The length of the oculoplastic surgery process varies according to its intricacy.  Minor treatments can be finished in less than an hour, whilst more sophisticated surgeries may need several hours.

What should I expect throughout the recuperation period?

After oculoplastic surgery, you should relax and avoid vigorous activity for a few days. You may notice swelling, bruising, and pain in the treated region. Your eye doctor will provide you with detailed advice for aftercare and how to handle any discomfort.

When can I resume my usual activities after oculoplasty surgery?

The timetable for returning to normal activity varies based on the type of operation conducted. In general, you should avoid vigorous exercise for a few days, as well as any activities that might injure the treated region.