Oculoplastic Surgery

According to statistics reported by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, eye lifts rank as one of the top five cosmetic plastic procedures performed. This procedure can give eyes a younger look by removing bulging fat, excess skin, and sagging muscle from the upper or lower eyelids.

If upper eyelid skin hangs loosely and interferes with peripheral vision, eye lifts can significantly widen one’s visual field. In general, problems with the shape and tone of eyelids is linked to aging, as well as to genetics and sun exposure.

Ptosis

When someone has a droopy upper eyelid, called ptosis, it may lead to a reduction in their field of vision because the eyelid can block the pupil – either partially or completely. In extreme cases of ptosis, people may even need to lift their eyelids with their fingers in order to see clearly! In kids with ptosis, lazy eye often results due to this limited vision.

What causes this condition? Usually, it is due to a stretching of the tendon and muscle that elevate the eyelid. Surgical eyelid reconstruction can be done to shorten the stretched tissue, thereby elevating the upper eyelid and restoring a normal field of vision.

Ectropion

Ectropion is a condition that describes when the lower eyelid is rolled outwards or is sagging forwards away from the eye. As a result, the eye is exposed and becomes dry and irritated. Over time, the cornea may also deteriorate because it is not protected sufficiently. Eyelid reconstruction can resolve this condition.

Entropion

Entropion refers to a condition in which the eyelid is rolled inwards toward the eye. Aging and a weakening of specific eyelid muscles cause this, and people can experience irritated and red eyes, as well as corneal abrasions or corneal ulcers. Treatment involves eyelid reconstruction.

Eyelid skin is the most delicate and sensitive skin on your body. Typically, it is the first place to exhibit the effects of aging and damage from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Skin cancer of the eyelids is a common condition, which may appear as a lesion or nodule on the eyelid. Such growths must be evaluated by a dermatologist and a biopsy will be done, when necessary. Eye tumor removal is performed without delay.

Treatment of eyelid skin cancer involves complete removal of the lesion or tumor, followed by eyelid reconstruction by an oculoplastic surgeon.

The lacrimal gland produces tears, which are necessary to keep eyes moist and healthy. Every time you blink, your eyelid disperses tears over the eye surface and enables excess tears to drain properly. There is a fine balance between having enough tears, too much, or too little.

When the lacrimal gland doesn’t produce enough tears, the eye can dry out, leading to the irritating symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Front-line treatment is generally to lubricate the eye with eye drops or medications. However, when the problem is due to an obstruction of the tear drainage system, corrective oculoplastic surgery may be required.

Orbital surgery is performed to repair socket trauma, such as orbital fractures, and to biopsy and/or manage tumors of the eye socket.

Oculoplastic procedures include cosmetic procedures too to smooth out wrinkles and crow’s feet. Injectable fillers can also be used to “lift” saggy eyes and mask the presence of wrinkles. All of these non-surgical cosmetic solutions offer an easy and effective way to combat the aesthetic effects of aging with a youthful, attractive appearance.

Most oculoplastic surgeries can be done on an outpatient basis, so you can return home the same day. In general, recovery from these procedures is generally fast.

For more information about our oculoplastic surgery services provided by Dr. Sonya Miles, contact our Tupelo, MS, eye care center!