Types of Occulofacial Plastic Surgery

What are the different types of aesthetic and ophthalmic plastic surgeries?

Learn more about oculoplastics at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute

Ptosis

Ptosis pronounced “tosis” is the medical term for drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition that may affect one or both upper eyelids. When the level of the upper lid margin falls, it can interfere with the upper field of vision. Symptoms include a decreased ability to keep the eyes open, eyestrain, and eyebrow fatigue from the increased effort needed to raise the eyelids.

The out-patient surgery for ptosis is performed under local anesthesia, so there is no need for an overnight stay. Sutures remain in the eyelids approximately one week, and recovery time is about two weeks.

Upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty, ectropion, and entropion

Repairs are other out-patient surgeries with similar recovery times.

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty (eye lift)

Reduces excess skin and fat in the upper eyelids. This overlapping skin often interferes with normal vision and has to be corrected to regain a functional visual field. During the out-patient procedure, the physician marks the incision sites (one incision on each eyelid), following the contour of the eyelid crease. Excess skin and fat is then removed, and the incision is closed with fine sutures. Typically, the incision is barely visible and fades over time. The physician often recommends blepharoplasty if a significant improvement in the visual field can be achieved.

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty

Reduces excess fat and skin in the lower eyelids. The surgeon makes incisions (either inside or outside the lower lid) and excess fat is removed. Incisions made inside the eyelid are not visible; incisions outside the eye are barely visible and generally fade.

Ectropion

Is the sagging and turning outward of the lower eyelid margin and lashes. An uncomfortable foreign body sensation results and can lead to tearing and eye irritation. Most cases of ectropion are due to age-related relaxation of the eyelid tissues.

Entropion

Is a condition where the eyelid margin turns inward. It often results from muscle spasm in the lid or from trauma-related scarring. The lower lashes rub against the eye, causing irritation, scratchiness, tearing, and redness. Typically, surgery is recommended to correct the problem.