Oculoplastic surgery
Oculoplastic surgery is a type of eye surgery done to rectify a medical problem or for cosmetic purposes. The procedure can be done by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) who has also trained in plastic surgery or reconstructive surgery. An oculoplastic surgeon treats those of all ages. These surgeons perform microsurgery inside the eye, which is known to be one of the most complex and challenging surgical procedures.
Oculoplastic procedures are done to rectify medical or cosmetic issues in many parts of the eye or face, such as the eyelids, eye sockets, tear ducts, cheeks or forehead.
These procedures are done to treat conditions including but not limited to:
- Ptosis – A condition in which the eyelids droop over the eyes.
- Entropion – A condition in which the eyelid (usually the lower eyelid) turns inward.
- Ectropion – A condition in which the eyelid (usually the lower eyelid) turns outward.
- Graves’ disease – A condition caused due to thyroid disease.
- Bell’s palsy – The weakening of the muscles around the eyes.
- Canthectomy – The need for surgical removal of tissue from the upper and lower eyelid junction.
For cosmetic purposes, an oculoplastic surgeon would also perform surgeries such as:
Blepharoplasty is one of the most commonly performed eyelift surgeries as stated by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Nearly 290,571 of these procedures were performed in the country in 2017.
What are the things you need to do prior to eye surgery?
Your doctor may give you some specific instructions to follow before scheduling your surgery, such as:
- Discontinuation of any blood thinners you may be on.
- A general checkup from your primary care provider may be required to clear you for surgery.
- He or she may also request some routine tests.
- If you smoke, he or she may request you to stop smoking for a couple of weeks before and after surgery to aid with healing.
- You will also need to arrange for someone to drive you back home after surgery.
What to expect
Most eye surgeries are same-day procedures. These can be carried out in a hospital facility or the provider's office, if they have the necessary infrastructure. You may need general anesthesia, which will put you to sleep, or local anesthesia, which numbs only the surgical area. This will be dependent on the type of surgery and procedure being performed by the doctor. In both scenarios, you will not feel any pain during the surgery.
Here are a few questions you may want to think about
1. Will there be pain post-surgery or any visible signs of surgery?
Yes, you may find some swelling, bruising and pain after surgery.
2. Do I need to schedule a follow-up visit?
Yes, you might want to schedule a follow-up visit a week after surgery. You may also require a visit to remove the stitches.
3. Other than painkillers, what can I do to reduce the pain?
You could place cold packs, wrapped in a towel over the area of swelling to reduce the pain.
4. Can I go back to my normal workout routine post-surgery?
It is suggested that you refrain from all activities that could raise your blood pressure after eye surgery, which includes bending and heavy lifting. You doctor will tell you when it is safe for you to resume your workout routine.
5. When to call the doctor
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact your doctor.
- Increase in the swelling, pain or fluid draining from the eye.
- Painkillers don’t seem to help in reducing the pain.
- Vision is getting worse.
Sources:
MedlinePlus
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
