Oculoplastic Surgery

Oculoplastics involves surgical procedures that relate to the orbit, eyelids and the tear ducts. The oculoplastic surgeons at Sandhurst Eye Centre understand the functioning of the lacrimal system and the effect that this type of procedures will have.

Blepharoplasty is the removal of bags and folds of skin around the eyes. The bags are generally caused by orbital fat prolapsing forward. This procedure is occasionally for cosmetic or aesthetic reasons however it is highly recommended in patients who experience a reduction in their visual field as a result thereof. With newer techniques the fat is not removed but rather re draped to give a smooth appearance.

Upper and lower blepharoplasties may be performed simultaneously.

Ptosis is the drooping of the upper eyelid affecting both adults and children. The unusually low position of the eyelid may cause a disturbance in the visual field.

Ptosis maybe hereditary, congenital, due to trauma, neurological or age related changes to the levator muscle. The levator muscle is the main muscle involved in eyelid elevation.

Ptosis can be surgically corrected.

Ectropion is the drooping of the lower lid such that lid may retract from the anterior surface of the eye.

There are numerous reasons why someone might develop an ectropion, the first being age related. Scarring may also cause the lower lid to retract from the eye. Facial nerve palsy and tumors surrounding the lid margin may lead to an ectropion.

The drooping of the lower eyelid can be surgically corrected to improve the cosmetic appearance.

Thyroid eye disease occurs in patients who have hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland) and may manifest in various ways. Patients with thyroid eye disease may complain of light sensitivity, watery eyes and ocular discomfort. Patients may also experience retraction of both the upper and lower lids, protrusion of the eye and a reduction in ocular movement.

There are various tumors that can form along the eyelid margin or in and around the orbit some of which may be malignant. It is absolutely imperative that one should have these examined and if needs be to have it surgically removed. Should the growth be very large the eyelids can be re-constructed.