Oculoplastic surgery offered by Stahl includes a wide variety of surgical procedures concerning the eye socket, eyelids, tear ducts, and the face. Concerning also the reconstruction of the eye and associated structures, our oculoplastic surgeons perform procedures such as the repair of droopy eyelids, tear duct obstructions, orbital fracture repairs, removal of tumors in and around the eyes, and overall eyelid reconstruction.
Eye surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia. The ophthalmologist performs an eye examination and make recommendations for surgery. In addition, photographs and visual field testing are required by most insurance companies before blepharoplasty and ptosis surgery. If you’re planning to have eye surgery, be sure to tell your ophthalmologist if you are taking aspirin or aspirin-containing drugs, blood thinners, or have a bleeding problem.
As stated above, the surgery may also address the tissues and bones around the eyeball. Designed to hold and protect the eyeball, the bones of the eye socket are strong, but may be fractured by a wide range of injuries. A common fracture occurs when the eye is struck with a blunt object such as a baseball or elbow. The floor or inside wall of the eye socket may be fractured outward, causing a “blowout” fracture, which may entrap tissue causing movement problems with the eyes. Such fractures may also cause a sunken appearance to the eyeball. These fractures may be repaired with specially designed equipment.
People who have lost their eye may have a new type of implant placed into the socket to give a more natural motion to their glass eye.
This surgery is generally safe; however, as with any surgery, there are certain risks:
- The ophthalmic surgeon will attempt to make both eyes look similar, but differences in healing between the eyes may cause some unevenness in the appearance following surgery.
- A “black eye” is common, but will go away quickly.
- The eye may feel dry after surgery, because it may be more difficult to close your eyes completely. This irritation generally disappears as the surgery heals.
- Eye surgery can be done safely in an outpatient setting by your ophthalmologist. The improvement in vision, comfort and appearance can be very gratifying.
If you’re interested in discovering more information about oculoplastic surgery, schedule your appointment today.
