Ophthalmologist and Oculoplastic Surgeon
​
What is an Oculoplastic Surgeon?
​
Oculoplastic surgeons are ophthalmologists (eye doctors) who have further specialised in eyelid and facial plastic surgery. Oculoplastic surgeons are trained to do many different types of eyelid and facial surgery, ranging from simple eyelid malpositions to more complex reconstruction involving the eyelids and surrounding forehead, temporal and cheek areas. They understand the delicate anatomy and function of the eyelids and their surrounding structures. As well as the eyelids, they specialise in the lacrimal (tear) system, the orbit (bone cavity around the eye), adjacent periocular (around the eyes) and facial structures and the forehead and cheeks.
Oculoplastic surgeons are also known as ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgeons and oculo-facial surgeons.
-
Oculoplastic surgeons assess the surface health of the eyes and function of the eyelids prior to eyelid plastic surgery
-
As dedicated eyelid plastic surgeons, an oculoplastic surgeon routinely does surgeries in these areas, and recognises potential problems
-
Oculoplastic surgeons are trained to manage the complications or eyelid and facial plastic surgery which can involve the eye itself
Why are Oculoplastic Surgeons important around the eyes?
​
Oculoplastic surgeons are trained ophthalmologists (eye doctors) who understand how eyelid surgery can affect the comfort of the eye and the clarity of vision. They are accustomed to working around the eye and face.
​
Conditions Oculoplastic Surgeons treat:
​
There are many conditions, but here we will mention the most common upper eyelid/eyebrow conditions treated:
While you may feel that droopy eyebrows and upper eyelids are “just part of getting old,” the visual field loss caused by these conditions causes decreased quality of life, restricts visual field, and is potentially dangerous. During a visit with an oculoplastic surgeon, it can be determined which factors contribute to restriction of your visual field, and you will discuss the surgical options to correct these problems. These are the types of issues oculoplastic surgeons most commonly correct.
​
What is eyelid and/or eyebrow surgery like?
​
Eyelid and eyebrow surgeries are most often performed on an outpatient basis (no hospital stay required) by oculoplastic surgeons using local anesthetic to numb the tissues. Most eyelid and eyebrow surgeries and their recovery periods are relatively painless, but do result in temporary bruising and swelling that lasts 1-2 weeks. Ice applied in the first couple days help to minimize this.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​