Oculoplastic surgeries are specialized surgeries that help in the reconstruction and repairing the structures around the eyes.
The main goal of these surgeries is to restore both the functional and aesthetic aspect of the eye area which is crucial not only for vision but also for the overall facial appearance.
In this blog post, we will explore the different types of oculoplastic surgeries, their indication, the potential risks involved and the recovery process.
Understanding Oculoplasty
Oculoplasty or oculoplastic surgeries are focused on diagnosis and treating deformities and abnormalities of the eyelids, lacrimal system, orbit, and surrounding areas of the face.
It primarily focuses on the reconstructive, restoration, and enhancement of the function and appearance of the eyes and the surrounding structures.
Indications For Oculoplastic Surgery
Several medical and cosmetic conditions may lead patients to seek oculoplastic surgery. Here are a few reasons why oculoplastic surgery is required:
- Congenital conditions: Children born with eye or eyelid abnormalities may require oculoplastic surgery to correct these conditions and improve eye function
- Ageing and cosmetic concerns: Helps to correct sagging eyelids, under-eye bags, wrinkles, and eyebrow drooping.
- Injuries: Traumatic injuries to the bones surrounding the eyes require surgery to restore function and aesthetics.
- Tumours: Benign or malignant tumours in the eye socket area may require oculoplasty.
- Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, including ptosis and entropion, can be corrected using oculoplastic surgeries.
Benefits Of Oculoplasty
Oculoplasty is essential for maintaining eye health, comfort, and function. Here are the key advantages of Oculoplastic surgery
- Restores tear drainage
- Corrects eyelid malpositions
- Alleviates discomfort caused by eyelid abnormalities
- Improve the appearance of the eyes by removing excess skin, fat, or tissue around the eyes
- Improves the overall quality of life and causes enhanced vision
Types Of Oculoplasty
Oculoplasty is categorized into different types depending on the area being treated, the condition being addressed, and the procedure.
Below is a detailed look at the major types of oculoplastic surgeries:
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the eyelids. It helps reduce the look of tired eyes and bagginess from the lower eyelids and removes the drooping skin from the upper lids.
Procedure
- Your Ophthalmologist may ask you to get a medical evaluation, adjust medications, quit smoking, and stop taking medications that may increase the risk of bleeding before the surgery.
- Your surgeon will make cuts in the natural crease of the upper eyelid or below the lower eyelash line depending on the goals of the surgery.
- The excess skin and protruding fat are removed and then incisions in the upper lids are closed. Lower lids may not require stitches.
Complications
Possible complications are bleeding, infection, dry eyes, scarring, possible loss of vision, and a pulled-down, lower-lid lash line.
Dacryocystorhinostomy (Tear duct surgery)
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a surgery used to treat blocked tear ducts. When the tear drainage system is blocked, it may cause tearing or recurrent eye infections. DCR creates a new drainage pathway for tears to bypass the blocked duct.
Procedure
- In External DCR, an incision is made on the side of the nose, near the inner corner of the eye to access the lacrimal sac. A surgeon makes a small opening in the sac and connects it to the nasal cavity.
- A stent or silicone tube is placed in the newly created passage to keep the opening open to prevent the new duct from closing. The surgeon then closes the skin incision with sutures.
- In Endonasal DCR, the surgeon uses an endoscope to access the tear duct through the nasal activity.
- Once the blocked tear duct and lacrimal sac are identified, the surgeon removes a small portion of the bone in the nasal cavity to access the lacrimal sac. A small opening in the sac is created to connect it to the nasal cavity, forming a new drainage pathway.
Complications
The possible complications are bleeding, infections, stenting or tubing slipping out of place, wound reopening or skin scarring.
Orbital Surgery
Orbital surgery is used to treat conditions affecting the eye socket (orbit) including fractures, tumours, and other abnormalities.
Procedure:
- The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia for patient comfort but in some cases, local anaesthesia with sedation may be used depending on the extent of the surgery.
- An incision is made on the eyelid and the location depends on the type of the surgery.
- Once the incision is made, the surgeon dissects the soft tissues to reach the orbital cavity.
- Depending on the condition being treated, the surgeon may perform the following procedures, including orbital decompression, fracture repair, tumour removal, removal of orbital fact, and correction of eye deformities
Complications:
The possible complications are infection, bleeding, vision problems, orbital complications, and scarring.
Ptosis Surgery (Droopy Eyelid Surgery)
Ptosis is the dropping of the upper eyelid and surgery is done to treat ptosis caused by aging. The surgeon may perform ptosis repair surgery with blepharoplasty.
Procedure:
- The surgeon gives local or general anaesthesia to numb the area.
- The surgeon will make an incision in the eyelid’s crease to reduce the appearance of scarring.
- The surgeon either performs levator muscle tightening or frontalis suspension depending on the requirement.
- The incision is carefully closed with sutures.
Complications:
The possible complications are infection, bleeding, dry eyes, eye irritation, and scarring.
Aftercare Following Oculoplasty
After undergoing oculoplasty surgery, it is important to follow the necessary post-operative care to ensure optimal healing and avoid complications.
Here are some key considerations for recovery following oculoplasty for a smooth recovery:
- Protect your eyes and avoid rubbing or touching the eyes
- Perform regular checkups to monitor progress
- Maintain eye hygiene and use prescribed eyedrops or ointments to prevent infections
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Avoid straining the eyes and wear sunglasses when going outside.
- If you observe severe pain, vision loss, or excessive swelling, seek medical attention immediately.
What is the Cost of Oculoplasty in India?
The cost of oculoplastic surgery in India may vary depending on several factors, including
- Type of the procedure
- Pre- and post-operative care
- Complexity of the surgery
- Experience of the surgeon
- Reputation and the location of the hospital
- Technology and facilities
It is recommended to consult directly with an Oculoplastic surgeon or the hospital to get a direct estimate. Grewal Eye Institute in India is known for offering a range of Oculoplastic surgeries at competitive prices.
Why Choose Grewal Eye Institute for Oculoplasty?
Grewal Eye Institute, located in Chandigarh is a trusted leader in Ophthalmic care, offering world-class oculoplastic surgeries performed by a team of experienced specialists. From blepharoplasty to orbital surgery, each oculoplastic procedure requires a high level of expertise and precision, making Grewal Eye Institute one of the top providers in the field.
Here are the reasons to choose Grewal Eye Institute for Oculoplasty:
- World’s 4th JCI certified Eye Hospital known for its quality and excellence
- Annually serving over one lakh patients
- Completing more than 10,000 eye surgeries
- Expert team of sixteen Ophthalmologists
- Affordable Oculoplasty surgery cost
- Personalised care tailored to each patient
- Advanced technology
If you have any questions regarding oculoplastic and related surgeries, it is recommended that you book a consultation with Grewal Eye Institute for expert guidance.