
Oculoplastics
What is Oculoplastics?
Oculoplastics is a specialized field that brings together eye medicine and plastic surgery to treat conditions around your eyes. Our eye doctors focus on both improving how your eyes work and how they look.
This unique specialty requires years of extra training beyond regular eye doctor education. Our ophthalmologists complete a special fellowship program after their eye doctor training. They understand the delicate balance between eye health and facial beauty. They work on the eyelids, eye socket, tear ducts, and surrounding areas with precision and care. The goal is always to maintain or improve your vision while creating natural-looking results.
Oculoplastic procedures address both medical needs and appearance concerns at the same time. Many patients find that fixing functional problems also makes them look younger and more alert. Our approach ensures you get the best of both worlds - better eye health and improved confidence in your appearance.
Oculoplastic surgeons must complete medical school, ophthalmology residency, and then a specialized fellowship in oculoplastics. This extensive training takes many years and ensures they understand both the medical and cosmetic aspects of eye surgery. Our surgeons have this advanced training and experience treating complex conditions around the eyes.
We treat the whole person, not just the problem area. This means considering how your eye condition affects your daily life, work, and confidence. Our doctors work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and goals. We also coordinate care with other specialists when needed.
Common Oculoplastic Procedures
Our eye doctors offer a range of oculoplastic procedures to address medical and cosmetic concerns. Each procedure is designed to improve both function and appearance around your eyes.
This surgery removes excess skin, muscle, and fat from your upper or lower eyelids. It can improve vision blocked by droopy skin and create a more youthful appearance. The procedure is done through carefully placed cuts that heal with minimal visible scarring.
When your upper eyelids droop and block your vision, ptosis repair can help. This surgery strengthens or tightens the muscles that lift your eyelids. Most patients notice immediate improvement in their field of vision and a more alert appearance.
These are bumps on the eyelid caused by blocked oil glands. We offer both medical treatments and surgical removal when needed. Our doctors can prevent these growths from returning and restore the normal appearance of your eyelids.
Blocked tear ducts cause watery eyes and infections. Surgery can create a new pathway for tears to drain properly. This relieves symptoms and reduces the risk of future infections. Most patients experience significant improvement quickly.
Eye socket injuries from accidents or sports can cause double vision and eye movement problems. Our specialists can repair these fractures to restore normal eye function. Early treatment often leads to better outcomes and prevents long-term complications.
Growths on or around the eyelids need careful evaluation and treatment. Our surgeons can safely remove these lesions while preserving eyelid function and appearance. When needed, we can reconstruct the eyelid to maintain its natural shape and movement.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Not all oculoplastic care involves surgery. Our eye doctors also provide non-surgical options that can address concerns with less downtime and recovery.
Botox can treat eyelid spasms (blepharospasm) and reduce fine lines around the eyes. This treatment requires special training, and not all eye doctors provide it. Our qualified doctors use precise techniques to ensure safe and effective results. Results typically last three to four months.
Fillers can restore volume around the eyes and reduce the appearance of hollows or bags. These treatments should only be performed by trained specialists due to the delicate nature of the eye area. Rare but serious complications can occur, so proper training and experience are essential.
We offer medications for inflammation, infection, and other eye conditions. These may include antibiotic drops, anti-inflammatory medications, and treatments for dry eyes. Many conditions can be managed effectively without surgery.
Some conditions around the eyes can be treated with laser therapy. This includes certain skin lesions and vascular problems. Laser treatments often require multiple sessions but can provide excellent results with minimal downtime.
Common Conditions Treated
Our oculoplastic specialists treat a wide range of conditions that affect the area around your eyes. These conditions can impact both your vision and your appearance, making daily activities more difficult.
When your upper eyelids sag or droop, they can block part of your vision and make you look tired all the time. This condition can happen with age, injury, or from other medical causes. Our surgeons can lift and tighten the eyelid muscles to restore your full field of vision and give you a more alert appearance.
Extra skin on your upper or lower eyelids can make you look older and sometimes interfere with your sight. This loose skin often develops as you age and your skin loses its stretch. Bags under your eyes and puffy eyelids can make you look constantly tired. Removing this excess tissue can dramatically improve both your vision and your appearance.
Sometimes eyelids turn inward (entropion) or outward (ectropion), causing discomfort and eye health issues. When eyelids turn in, your lashes can scratch your eye surface. When they turn out, your eyes may become dry and irritated. Our surgeons can correct these positions to protect your eyes and restore comfort.
Blocked tear ducts can cause watery eyes, infections, and constant tearing. This problem makes it hard to see clearly and can be embarrassing in social situations. Our specialists can open blocked tear ducts and restore normal drainage to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
Injuries, thyroid disease, or tumors can affect the bones and tissues around your eyes. These conditions may cause double vision, eye pain, or changes in how your eyes look. Our experienced surgeons can repair damage and restore both function and appearance to the eye area.
Growths on or around the eyelids need careful evaluation and treatment by specialists. These can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Our surgeons can safely remove these lesions while preserving the function and appearance of your eyelids. When needed, we can reconstruct the eyelid to maintain its natural shape and movement.
Thyroid problems can cause the eyes to bulge, the eyelids to retract, and double vision to develop. This condition requires specialized treatment to protect vision and restore normal eye appearance. Our doctors work closely with thyroid specialists to provide comprehensive care.
What to Expect During Your Care
Understanding the treatment process helps you feel confident about your decision to pursue oculoplastic surgery. We guide you through each step to ensure the best possible experience and results.
We begin with a thorough eye and facial exam to understand your symptoms and goals. This includes reviewing your medical history, testing your vision, checking eyelid and tear duct function, and taking photos for your medical record. We may also order imaging studies if needed. Our eye doctors will explain which procedures might help you and what results you can expect.
Based on your evaluation, our eye doctors recommend the best treatment options for your specific needs. We discuss all procedures, expected outcomes, recovery steps, and costs. This is also a good time to ask questions about the surgery, recovery, and any concerns you may have. We want you to feel completely informed before making any decisions.
Before your procedure, we give you detailed instructions to help you prepare. You may need to stop certain medications that increase bleeding risk and arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery. We also discuss what to expect during recovery and provide you with all necessary supplies for healing.
Most oculoplastic procedures are performed as outpatient surgery, meaning you can go home the same day. We use local anesthesia with or without sedation to keep you comfortable during the procedure. The surgery typically takes one to three hours, depending on which procedures you are having done. Our team monitors you closely throughout the process and ensures your comfort.
The first week after surgery involves the most noticeable swelling and bruising around your eyes. Most patients can return to light activities within three to five days. By two weeks, the majority of swelling and bruising has improved significantly. Complete healing takes several months, but you will see steady improvement throughout this time. Some patients may experience temporary dry eyes or minor changes in eyelid position during healing.
The benefits of oculoplastic surgery can last for many years when performed by experienced specialists. Your eyes will look more youthful and alert, and any vision problems should be greatly improved or completely resolved. With proper care and sun protection, your results will continue to look natural and beautiful over time. Regular follow-up visits ensure your healing progresses normally.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that considering surgery around your eyes can raise many questions. Here are answers to some of the most common concerns our patients have.
Yes, our experienced oculoplastic surgeons use advanced techniques that preserve your unique facial features while improving function and appearance. The goal is to make you look like a refreshed version of yourself, not like a different person. Most people will notice that you look more alert and rested, but they will not be able to tell you had surgery.
No, oculoplasty treats both medical and cosmetic concerns. Many procedures restore function, relieve discomfort, or protect vision. Insurance often covers procedures when they are done to improve vision or treat medical conditions, while purely cosmetic procedures are typically not covered by insurance.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort after oculoplastic surgery. Any pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or prescription pain relievers if needed. Cold compresses help reduce swelling and provide additional comfort. The area may feel tight or tender for a few days, but this improves quickly as healing progresses.
Most patients can return to desk work within one week after surgery, though you may still have some visible swelling and bruising. If your job involves physical activity, heavy lifting, or dusty environments, you may need to wait two weeks or longer. We provide personalized guidance based on your specific work requirements and healing progress.
If you have eyelid problems that affect your vision, blocked tear ducts causing constant tearing, growths around your eyes, or facial injuries affecting your eyes, our specialists can help. We evaluate whether your symptoms are affecting your vision, comfort, or daily activities and discuss all available treatment options with you.
Like all surgeries, oculoplastic procedures carry some risks, but serious complications are rare when performed by experienced specialists. Possible risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, temporary changes in sensation, dry eyes, and asymmetry. We discuss all potential risks with you during your consultation and take every precaution to minimize them.
Look for an ophthalmologist who has completed additional fellowship training in oculoplastic surgery. This specialized training ensures they understand both the functional and cosmetic aspects of surgery around the eyes. Check their board certification, experience with your specific condition, and ask to see before and after photos of similar cases.
Yes, procedures that correct droopy eyelids, excess skin blocking your sight, or other issues can significantly improve vision. Many patients find that addressing functional problems also enhances their appearance, giving them the dual benefit of better vision and increased confidence in their appearance.
Yes, we offer non-surgical treatments such as medications, Botox injections for certain conditions, and dermal fillers. These options may be appropriate depending on your specific concerns and can often provide improvement with less downtime than surgical procedures. However, not all conditions can be treated non-surgically.
Recovery varies by procedure, but most patients return to normal activities within one to two weeks. The first week involves the most swelling and bruising, with significant improvement by two weeks. Final results may take several months to fully develop as all swelling resolves and tissues settle into their new position.
Insurance typically covers procedures that are medically necessary, such as ptosis repair that blocks vision, tear duct surgery, or removal of cancerous growths. Purely cosmetic procedures are usually not covered. We can help determine if your procedure might be covered and assist with insurance pre-authorization when appropriate.
During your consultation, we will examine your eyes and eyelids, review your medical history, and discuss your concerns and goals. We may take photographs for your medical record and perform special tests if needed. You will receive information about treatment options, risks, benefits, and costs. This is your opportunity to ask questions and decide if treatment is right for you.
Results from oculoplastic surgery can last many years, often 10-15 years or longer for procedures like blepharoplasty. However, the natural aging process continues, and some patients may choose to have touch-up procedures in the future. Proper skin care and sun protection can help maintain your results longer.
You will need to avoid contact lenses for at least one to two weeks after eyelid surgery to allow proper healing. Your doctor will let you know when it is safe to resume wearing contacts. Some patients may need to adjust to a different type or brand of contact lens after surgery.
While most patients are satisfied with their results, occasionally revision surgery may be needed to achieve the desired outcome or address healing issues. We discuss this possibility during your consultation and will work with you if additional treatment is needed. Most revision procedures are minor and can be performed in the office.
Schedule Your Consultation
Ready to learn more about how oculoplastic surgery can improve your vision and appearance? Contact ReFocus Eye Health Marlton today to schedule your comprehensive consultation with our experienced oculoplastic specialists serving Burlington County.
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Tuesday: 8am-7pm
Wednesday: 8am-7pm
Thursday: 8am-7pm
Friday: 8am-5pm
Saturday: 9am-2pm
Sunday: Closed
