Oculoplastics Surgery

What is oculoplastic surgery?

Oculoplastic surgery involves surgery on the areas connected to and around the eyes, such as the tear ducts, eyelids, and the orbit (the bony socket that holds your eye). There are several different kinds of oculoplastic surgery, some performed for cosmetic purposes and others for medical reasons.

What eye procedures can oculoplastics help with?

Eyelid conditions 

There are several types of eyelid conditions, but here are some common ones and how they’re treated: 

• Eyelid bumps and lumps: A range of conditions can show up as eyelid bumps and lumps. Symptoms can range from a red and painful infection in the eyelid (such as a stye) to a very slow-growing, painless lump in or on the edge of the eyelid. Most eyelid bumps resolve on their own and are harmless. However, if they’re bothering you, a small procedure can be performed under local anaesthetic to remove them. 

• Drooping eyelids: Drooping eyelids can be caused by either weakening of the muscle that lifts the eyelid (ptosis) or excess upper lid skin (dermatochalasis). Ptosis usually involves surgery to tighten the muscle/tendon that lifts the upper eyelid. Dermatochalasis is treated with blepharoplasty surgery, in which excess skin is removed and the upper lid is stitched to help reduce the hooded appearance. 

• Inward-turning eyelid: Also known as entropion, this occurs when the edge of the lower lid turns inwards, causing the eyelashes to touch or rub the eye’s surface and leading to irritation. This can cause watery and red eyes and sometimes blurry vision. Certain measures can help temporarily, such as ointments and eye drops, but surgery is often performed to tighten or reposition the eyelid. 

• Outward-turning eyelid: Also known as ectropion, this can affect one or both eyes and occurs when the lower eyelid turns outward and away from the eye. This disrupts tear drainage, which can make the eye watery, red, or gritty, and more vulnerable to infections like conjunctivitis. Mild cases may not require treatment, but your optometrist might suggest using eye drops and eye ointment to relieve symptoms. If surgery is needed, this involves tightening the eyelid. 

Different types of oculoplastic procedures

Eyelid surgery - Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is performed to remove excess fat or skin from the eyelid. This is usually done as a cosmetic procedure to improve the appearance of droopy or hooded eyelids or bags under the eyes. In some cases, the surgery is carried out for medical reasons to restore eyesight and reduce discomfort, such as when a droopy eyelid is affecting vision. 

What happens during oculoplastics surgery?

Consultation 

Before your surgery, you’ll attend an initial consultation. During your consultation, you’ll discuss your eye problem, outline any goals you have, and explore lifestyle-focused treatment options with our expert consultants. They’ll also look at your medical history and examine your eyes to help them decide on the best treatment option for you. They’ll explain the chosen procedure in more detail and go over any possible risks. You’ll also have the chance to ask any questions you have in mind.

Surgery 

The consultant will give you advice on how to prepare for your surgery, and it’s important to follow this. This may include stopping certain medications, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and medications that thin your blood. The exact steps involved in your surgery depend on the type of surgery you have. 

Recovery and aftercare 

You’ll be given aftercare advice, and it’s important to follow this. Avoid strenuous activity, and rest as much as you can during recovery. 24 hours after your surgery, we’ll call you to check in. We also have a 24-hour aftercare helpline. 

Common risks and side effects of oculoplastic surgery

It’s normal to experience temporary side effects after your surgery, such as watery eyes, light sensitivity, swelling, bruising, and mild irritation. Oculoplastic surgery is generally safe, but every surgical procedure carries risks. Possible risks depend on the procedure, but could include bleeding, asymmetry, infection, and side effects from the anaesthesia. You’ll be told about this in more detail before you undergo your oculoplastic treatment.