An oculoplastic surgeon is an ophthalmologist with advanced training in plastic and reconstructive surgery of the structures around the eye: the eyelids, orbit (bony cavity around the eye), lacrimal (tear) glands, among others. Because they are essentially ophthalmologists, oculoplastic surgeons complete a residency program, but they undergo another two years of fellowship-training in oculoplastic surgery.
So, when should you visit an oculoplastic surgeon? If you have an orbital or cosmetic eyelid condition, you will greatly benefit from the expertise of an oculoplastic surgeon. Listed below are specific orbital and eyelid conditions that warrant a visit to an oculoplastic surgeon.
Sagging Eyelids
Blepharoplasty, a surgical procedure for correcting deformities of the eyelids, is among the common aesthetic eye procedures oculoplastic surgeons are trained to do.
Dermatochalasis, colloquially known as “baggy eyes,” is a cosmetic condition characterized by excess upper eyelid skin, which can make you look older. Blepharoplasty can remove the excess or puffy skin around your eyes and restore their youthful appearance.
Extensive dermatochalasis can lead to droopy skin on your eyelids, a condition medically referred to as ptosis. Droopy skin on eyelids can obstruct your field of vision; thus, it’s not only unattractive but also dangerous. The condition can also be addressed using blepharoplasty to shorten the lax muscle and elevate the upper eyelid.
Eyelid Rolling Outward or Inward
Ectropion (outward) or entropion (inward) turning eyelids can lead to chronic eye irritation and corneal damage.
Removing part of the skin and stitching the lid back together can restore skin tightness on the eyelids and addresses either condition.
Skin Growth and Cancer
Your skin is thinnest on your eyelids, and this makes them prone to sun damage and skin cancer, and benign growths.
An oculoplastic surgeon can help correctly diagnose skin growths and ensure they are treated appropriately.
Tearing Disorders
The lacrimal glands are located above each of your eyeballs. They are responsible for the continuous tear fluid supply, lubricating and smoothening the surface of your eyes so that the light that enters it is refracted correctly and you can see clearly.
Overproduction or too little production of tears and an obstruction of the tear ducts are symptoms of tearing disorders.
An oculoplastic surgeon can perform surgery on the tear ducts and drainage system to restore their normal function.
Oculoplastic Surgery in St. Louis and Franklin Counties in Missouri
If you have aesthetic or functional issues with your eyelids, orbit, or tear duct system, your best bet is to consult one of our board-certified oculoplastic surgeons at Advanced Sight Center. For decades, we’ve had many success stories of helping dozens of patients in St. Louis and Franklin restore the beauty and function of their eyes. Let us help you, too!
To schedule an appointment with our oculoplastic surgeon, call our Washington clinic at (636) 239-1650. You may also use our convenient online request form. We look forward to serving you!
