Oculoplastic Surgery: A Detailed Look at the Top 7 Types

Whenever the term eye surgery is mentioned, most of us would automatically associate it with procedures that have something to do with correcting the vision and the anatomy of the eye. We might be more familiar with procedures like cataract surgery or LASIK treatment. But ophthalmology, the medical field that deals with the physiology, anatomy and diseases of the eyes, covers a wide range of scope that is not just limited to correction of visual problems.

Interestingly, the field of ophthalmology is not just about the very eyeball itself. A special subfield called Oculoplastic Surgery covers procedures that go beyond the very anatomy of the eyes and specializes in reconstruction of the associated structures of the eyes. This includes the eye socket, eyelids, tear ducts and even the face. Typically, oculoplastic procedures are performed by opthalmologists. However, a growing number of plastic surgeons are also trained to perform these very meticulous procedures in improving the overall appearance of the eyes and the entire face, as well. Let us go through some of the oculoplastic procedures.

Double Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty, or more commonly known as double eyelid surgery, is probably the most popular of the all the oculoplastic procedures. Double eyelid surgery is even listed as one of the top 5 cosmetic procedures according to the 2012 Statistics of the American Society for Plastic Surgeons.

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This procedure is commonly performed among Asians who naturally do not have the crease on the upper eyelids, making it a popular cosmetic procedure in this ethnic group. This facial characteristic reflects an appearance of being disinterested, distant and dejected. The procedure, which usually lasts between one to three hours, will result to an eye that looks more open and engaging. It entails making an incision on the upper eyelid and remove excess fat, skin and muscles to create a natural-looking crease on the upper eyelid.

Double eyelid surgery can also be performed on patients who are experiencing drooping of the upper eyelids caused by aging, as well as, mild to moderate ptosis. Others whose vision are affected because of a droopy eyelid can also benefit from this oculoplastic procedure.

Epicanthoplasty

Epicanthoplasty is a procedure that can be performed in conjunction with a double eyelid surgery. It involves the removal of the epicanthic folds, which are the skin folds on the upper eyelid that is covering the inner corner of the eye. This makes the eyes look smaller and thinner than they really are. Epicanthic folds are more evident and visible among individuals with certain medical conditions, like Down syndrome. This is also a distinct characteristic most common among Eastern and Central Asians, Native Americans, Inuit and certain tribes in Africa. This kind of eye condition is not harmful, and epicanthoplasty is performed for cosmetic purposes.

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While the epicanthic folds may be considered a minor part of the eye, but only a skilled doctor should perform an epicanthoplasty, as the folds overlay the tear drainage canals. The procedure involves reshaping the exterior to give a double eyelid look and give a more pronounced and more open look to the eyes. However, this kind of procedure is not recommended by most doctors because of the high tendency to develop post-surgical scars and can result to an unnatural look.

Tarsorrhaphy

While the first two surgeries involve opening up the appearance of the eyes, Tarsorrhaphy, on the other hand, is a procedure that is performed by partially sewing the eyelids together to a narrow opening. This is done as a precautionary medical procedure to protect the eyes, where blinking is hindered that may cause the cornea from drying.

Stitches are meticulously placed at the corners of the eyelid opening, which allows better eye lubrication and limits the exposure to the eye. This is a rare procedure that is usually performed for patients suffering from paralysis, like Ball’s palsy, exophthalmos, enophthalmos, Sjogren’s syndrome and dendritic ulcers. This procedure is also performed to fix eyelids that droop due to sun damage and prior eyelid surgery.

Dacryocystorhinostomy

We often associate tears with sadness or heartbreak. But, did you know that tears actually help protect the eyes? However, there are cases where the tear ducts or the nasolacrimal duct is blocked. Epiphora or abnormal tearing occurs where tears build up and overflow to the cheek even when you are not crying. Infection can also occur because of the stagnation of the tears.

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This is quite common among children with about 5% of born babies have a problem with their tear ducts. But, about 85% of these get better as they grow old. In adults, epiphora can be a result of an injury or trauma.

Dacryocystorhinostomy is performed by carefully making an artificial channel of the nasolacriminal sac into the nasal cavity to alleviate the symptoms. This can be done externally or with the use of an endoscope. For cosmetic reasons, the endoscopic approach is more popular because it is less bloody and messy, no visible external scarring, perioperative time is shorter and high success rate.

Orbital Eye Surgery

This type of oculoplastic procedure is performed when the orbit or eye socket is damaged because of a severe injury or trauma. This can usually result from being hit directly in the eye with enough force to break the thin bones below the eye and between the eye and the nose. This can also happen from motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries and falls. Because of this, decreased vision, double vision, immobility of the eye balls, pain and number in and around the eyes and nausea and vomiting can be experienced.

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Before an orbital eye surgery can be performed, a CT scan will be required to assess the severity of the injury. From there, the surgeon will perform the best surgical approach while carefully preserving the function and vision of the eye.

Brow Lift and Face Lift

These procedures may be very common cosmetic procedures, but brow lift and face lift are actually considered within the category of oculoplastic procedures. The procedures involve making incisions within the area of the hairline to remove excess fats and tighten the underlying muscles. These procedures can be done to correct and elevate a drooping eyebrow, which can look cosmetically-challenged or it can obstruct proper vision of an individual. However, it is important to approach a surgeon that is qualified to perform these types of procedures. This is because not all oculoplastic surgeons are trained to perform brow lifts and face lifts.

Botox and Facial Fillers

Interestingly, even Botox injections and facial fillers are well within the scope of oculoplasty. This is especially so when the administration of these anti-wrinkle solutions are performed within the eye area.

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Getting the right procedure for areas within the eye is as important as the very eye itself. That is why it is always crucial to approach a doctor who will know which procedure should be done for either your eyelids, eye socket, tear ducts and the face.

If you are looking into enhancing your overall feature by getting a quality and natural-looking double eyelid surgery, Dr. Ahnsup Andrew Kim of Advance Cosmetic Beauty Surgery will take a closer look at your eyes and eyelids to properly assess on how the procedure can enhance your natural beauty. Call (02) 9280 3632 now for a free consultation with Dr. Kim.