What You Should Know About Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery is a type of oculoplastic surgery, a unique surgical specialty that focuses on corrective and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, tear ducts and orbit of the eye. Key-Whitman oculoplastic specialists focus on functional disorders of the eyelids, orbits and lacrimal drainage systems as well as cosmetic enhancement of the eye area.

In many cases, oculoplastic surgery may be medically necessary, while in other cases, the surgery is considered purely cosmetic. Oculoplastic surgery may be used to treat these conditions:

• Ptosis:Drooping of the upper eyelid.
• Entropion: A condition in which the upper or lower eyelid turns inward, causing the skin and eyelashes to rub against the eye.
• Ectropion:A condition in which the lower eyelid sags and turns out, resulting in exposure of the eyeball.
• Eyelid growths: Growths on the eyelid or face that may be benign or malignant.
• Blockage of the tear duct:This condition may appear at birth or as a result of injury, disease or infection.
• Blepharoplasty:Correction of excess skin on the eyelids and bags or extra fat above and below the eyes.
• Brow ptosis: Drooping eyebrow that may or may not interfere with vision.
• Reconstruction: Oculoplastic surgery may also be used as a reconstructive procedure following injury, burns or birth defects.

Any oculoplastic surgery is a delicate procedure, as it involves tissues and structures around the eye. While plastic surgeons can perform many
of these procedures, the best choice for patients is to choose a qualified and experienced oculoplastic surgeon instead.

Oculoplastic surgeons are certified and experienced ophthalmologists who have also received training in plastic surgery of tissues around the eye and who understand the balance of performing cosmetic or reconstructive surgery while maintaining the function of the eyes.

The oculoplastic surgeons at Key-Whitman Eye Center are board certified and perform a wide range of procedures utilizing the latest technologies. For more information on eyelid surgery at Key-Whitman, click here.