Oculoplastic surgery, also known as oculofacial plastic surgery, is a subspecialty of ophthalmology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the eyelids, tear ducts, orbit (the bony cavity surrounding the eye), and the face around the eyes. This includes both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
Oculoplastic surgeons are trained to perform a wide range of procedures, including:
- Eyelid surgery: This includes procedures to repair droopy or sagging eyelids (ptosis repair), remove excess skin and fat from the eyelids (blepharoplasty), and repair eyelid malpositions such as entropion or ectropion.
- Tear duct surgery: This includes procedures to repair a blocked or damaged tear duct, which can cause excessive tearing or infection.
- Orbital surgery: This includes procedures to repair fractures or other injuries to the orbit, as well as to remove tumors or growths that may affect the eye or surrounding structures.
- Facial rejuvenation surgery: This includes procedures such as brow lifts, facelifts, and eyelid lifts (blepharoplasty) to improve the appearance of the face and eyes.
Oculoplastic surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia or sedation. Recovery time depends on the type of procedure performed, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few days to a few weeks.
In addition to surgical procedures, oculoplastic surgeons also provide non-surgical treatments such as Botox injections and dermal fillers to improve the appearance of the eye and facial area.