Oculoplastic surgery is a specialized field within eye care that focuses on the areas
surrounding the eye. Unlike general ophthalmology, which primarily focuses on the eye itself, oculoplastic
surgery extends its scope to include the eyelids, tear ducts, eye sockets, and nearby facial structures.
Oculoplastic surgeons have a unique combination of skills. They begin with a strong
foundation in ophthalmology, then build upon this with additional training in plastic and reconstructive
techniques specific to the structures around the eye.
This dual expertise allows them to address both the health and appearance of the eye area.
Oculoplastic procedures can be done for medical or cosmetic reasons, often blending the two.
They range from correcting droopy eyelids that impair vision to reconstructing facial
features after injury or certain eye conditions.
Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is one of the most frequently performed oculoplastic procedures. At Raleigh Ophthalmology, our oculoplastic surgeons specialize in both upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty.
Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is a procedure that can be performed for both functional and cosmetic reasons. As you age, the skin around your eyes loses elasticity, resulting in excess or sagging skin called dermatochalasis.
This can not only affect your appearance but also potentially impair your vision by hanging over your eyelashes. During an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, your oculoplastic surgeon will carefully remove this excess skin and, in some cases, a small amount of fat.
The result is a more open, youthful eye appearance and potentially improved peripheral vision. For those patients whose vision is affected by overhanging skin, this procedure may be considered medically necessary and could be covered by insurance.
Our oculoplastic surgeons also offer lower eyelid blepharoplasty, which is primarily performed as a cosmetic procedure. This procedure addresses the "puffy" or bulging appearance that can develop in the lower eyelids over time.
Ptosis is a drooping of the upper eyelid that can be caused by various factors, most commonly related to weakness or dysfunction of the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid. This condition can be present from birth, which is called congenital ptosis, or develop later in life, which is called acquired ptosis.
Ptosis can affect one or both eyes and may interfere with vision if severe enough. Ptosis repair is a surgical procedure aimed at lifting the drooping eyelid to its proper position.
This is typically done by tightening the levator muscle, which is responsible for lifting the eyelid. The specific technique used depends on the severity of the ptosis and the strength of the levator muscle.
The oculoplastic surgeons at Raleigh Ophthalmology perform ptosis repair to improve both the function and appearance of the eyelid. This procedure may be able to significantly enhance your field of vision and create a more alert, symmetrical appearance.
While many people are familiar with Botox for smoothing wrinkles, it can also have functional uses. At Raleigh Ophthalmology, we use Botox and similar products like Xeomin to treat blepharospasms.
Blepharospasm is a condition characterized by involuntary, excessive blinking or spasms of the eyelid muscles. These spasms can be so severe that they interfere with a person's ability to keep their eyes open, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life.
Botox and Xeomin contain a purified form of botulinum toxin, which, when injected into specific muscles, temporarily paralyzes them. In the case of blepharospasms, these injections can provide significant relief by reducing the frequency and intensity of muscle spasms.
The effects typically last for several months. After this, you will need to have follow-up treatments to maintain the results.
The orbit is the eye socket that contains the eye and other structures of the eye. Orbital surgeries encompass a range of procedures that address issues within this complex area.
At Raleigh Ophthalmology, our eye doctors perform various types of orbital surgeries, including orbital decompression, tumor removal, and fracture repair.
Mohs surgery is a highly effective technique for removing skin cancers, particularly those occurring on the face. However, when skin cancers occur near the eyes or on the eyelids, the removal can leave defects that require specialized reconstruction.
The oculoplastic surgeons at Raleigh Ophthalmology work closely with dermatologists who perform Mohs surgery to provide expert reconstruction following cancer removal. Their knowledge of eyelid anatomy allows for meticulous reconstruction that not only restores appearance but also preserves the essential functions of the eyelid, such as protecting the eye and distributing tears.
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Various types of benign and malignant lesions can develop on the eyelids. These may include skin tags, cysts, warts, or more concerning growths like basal cell carcinomas.
Your Raleigh oculoplastic surgeon can remove these lid lesions using techniques that minimize scarring and preserve eyelid function. For benign lesions, removal is often straightforward and can be performed in-office under local anesthesia.
For potentially malignant lesions, we ensure thorough removal and may recommend further testing to confirm complete removal of any cancerous cells.
A chalazion is a benign, painless bump that can develop when an oil gland in the eyelid becomes clogged. While many chalazia resolve on their own with conservative treatments like warm compresses, some require more advanced treatments.
Ptosis can affect one or both eyes and may interfere with vision if severe enough. Ptosis repair is a surgical procedure aimed at lifting the drChalazion excision is a minor surgical procedure that can typically be performed in the office. During the procedure, the chalazion is carefully removed through a small incision, usually on the inside of the eyelid to avoid visible scarring.ooping eyelid to its proper position.
Eyebrow lifts are another type of oculoplastic procedure that can reduce forehead wrinkles, minimize frown lines, and create a more open, refreshed look around the eyes. Eyebrow lifts are typically done for cosmetic purposes to accomplish aesthetic goals.
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