Oculoplastic Surgery: Combining function and aesthetics.
In the world of surgical specialties, few fields blend function and aesthetics as seamlessly as oculoplastic surgery. This highly specialised branch of ophthalmology focuses on the delicate structures surrounding the eyes – combining medical expertise with artistic precision to improve both vision and appearance, often with life-changing results.
What is oculoplastic surgery?
Oculoplastic surgery encompasses a broad range of procedures, from reconstructive surgery to cosmetic enhancements. It involves the eyelids, tear ducts, eyebrows, and the orbital region. The term “ocular” refers to the eye, while “plastic” pertains to reconstructive surgery, so oculoplastics combines both reconstructive and aesthetic techniques to address a variety of eye problems.
What type of surgery is involved?
* Eyelid Surgery: One of the most common aspects of oculoplastic surgery involves procedures such as correcting lid malposition such as eyelids turning in or out, or droopy eyelids with ptosis or blepharoplasty surgery. Eyelids turning in (entropion) can be very uncomfortable and eyelids turning out (ectropion) can cause troublesome watering. Blepharoplasty surgery addresses excess skin and fat in the eyelids usually due to aging. Blepharoplasty is often done not only for cosmetic reasons but also to improve vision when drooping eyelids impair one’s field of view.
* Periocular cancer surgery: Another key area of oculoplastic surgery is in treating cancer around the eyes. The eyelids and face are one of the most common areas to develop skin cancers and treating them requires specialist reconstruction techniques to protect the eyeball.
* Orbital Surgery: Oculoplastic surgeons often deal with traumatic orbital fractures, tumours, and congenital abnormalities.
* Lacrimal (Tear Duct) Surgery: Another area of expertise is in treating disorders of the tear ducts, such as blockages, which can lead to excessive watering or chronic infections. Surgical interventions help restore proper tear drainage and alleviate these issues.
*Cosmetic Enhancements: Beyond functional surgery, oculoplastic surgeons also perform cosmetic procedures like eyelid lifts, brow lifts and fat removal around the eye region. These surgeries help patients combat the visible signs of aging, such as under-eye bags or droopy eyelids.
Why choose an oculoplastic specialist?
Oculoplastic procedures are often associated with greater risks compared to other surgery as the eye region is uniquely sensitive and requires highly precise techniques. Surgeons in this field often undergo extensive training, mastering both the intricacies of ocular anatomy and advanced surgical skills to ensure optimal outcomes.
Non-surgical options for aesthetic enhancement such as Botox and fillers have become increasingly common and whilst they have their place, some eyelid problems can only be successfully treated with surgery. At Sarum Vision we specialise in offering surgical treatments for both functional and aesthetic reasons.
Why choose Sarum Vision?
Oculoplastic problems require highly specialised care; at Sarum Vision you can be confident that our experienced UK Fellowship trained surgeon Mr Haq, will guide you through what can be a daunting prospect. Mr Haq has been an eye specialist for almost 25 years and a Salisbury based Consultant for 10 years; he is also a member of the British Oculoplastic Surgery Society,