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Oculofacial plastic surgery is a specialized area of ophthalmology focused on the structures surrounding the eyes. While many people associate the specialty with cosmetic eyelid surgery, oculofacial plastic and orbital surgeons also diagnose and treat a wide range of functional and reconstructive conditions involving the eyelids, brows, tear drainage system, orbit and face.
Because these areas are closely connected to the eyes and vision, treatment requires a detailed understanding of both the eye and the delicate structures around it.
What Does an Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon Do?
An oculofacial plastic surgeon specializes in conditions affecting the tissues surrounding the eyes. Depending on a patient’s needs, treatment may be functional, reconstructive or cosmetic.
Some patients seek care because their eyelids are interfering with vision. Others may have an eyelid that turns inward or outward, a lesion that needs to be removed or damage requiring reconstruction. Oculofacial specialists also treat problems involving the tear drainage system and conditions affecting the orbit, which is the bony area surrounding the eye.
Conditions Treated by Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Drooping Eyelids and Excess Eyelid Skin
A drooping upper eyelid, known as ptosis, can affect appearance and in some cases interfere with vision. Excess skin on the upper eyelids can also create a heavy feeling or block part of the visual field.
Depending on the cause, treatment may include ptosis repair, blepharoplasty or a combination of procedures designed to improve eyelid position and function.
Eyelid Lesions and Skin Cancer Reconstruction
Lumps, bumps and other lesions can develop on or around the eyelids. While many are benign, some require removal and careful evaluation.
When a lesion or skin cancer is removed, reconstruction may be needed to restore the eyelid’s appearance and, more importantly, its ability to protect the eye. This can include reconstruction following Mohs surgery.
Eyelids That Turn Inward or Outward
Entropion occurs when the eyelid turns inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eye. Ectropion occurs when the eyelid turns outward, which can leave the eye exposed and lead to irritation, tearing and discomfort.
Both conditions can affect eye comfort and health. Surgical repair can restore a more normal eyelid position.
Tear Drainage Problems
Persistent tearing is not always caused by producing too many tears. In some cases, tears cannot drain normally because of a blockage or problem within the tear drainage system.
An oculofacial plastic surgeon can evaluate the cause of excessive tearing and determine whether treatment is needed to improve tear drainage.
Conditions Affecting the Orbit
The orbit includes the bones, muscles, nerves, fat and other tissues surrounding the eye. Problems in this area can result from thyroid eye disease, trauma, tumors or other conditions.
Orbital surgery is a highly specialized area of care that may be used to diagnose or treat conditions affecting these important structures.
Oculofacial Plastic Surgery Is Not Just Cosmetic
Cosmetic procedures are one part of oculofacial plastic surgery, but the specialty involves much more. Many procedures are performed to improve function, protect the eye, treat disease or repair damage caused by injury or surgery.
The same specialized understanding of eyelid and facial anatomy can also be applied to cosmetic concerns. Procedures such as eyelid surgery, brow lifting, facial fat grafting and certain injectable treatments may help address changes around the eyes and face.
Specialized Care at Tower Clock Eye Center
Tower Clock Eye Center now offers specialized oculofacial plastic and orbital care through Dr. Jack Komro, a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist with advanced training in the treatment of conditions affecting the eyelids, tear drainage system, orbit and surrounding facial structures. His expertise adds to the broad range of medical and surgical eye care available through Tower Clock Eye Center.
Whether the concern involves a drooping eyelid, excess eyelid skin, an eyelid lesion, tearing, an orbital condition or a cosmetic goal, an evaluation can help determine what is causing the problem and what treatment options may be appropriate.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about oculofacial plastic and orbital care or schedule an evaluation, contact Tower Clock Eye Center at (920) 499-3102.
