What is Oculoplasty and its recovery period?

Introduction 

Oculoplastic surgical procedures are performed around the eyes to correct a medical problem and sometimes also for cosmetic reasons. It is one of the most commonly performed procedures around the eyes and has been proven to help fix many eye-related problems.

Through this article, we will have a brief look at the oculoplasty of the eye and understand the indications of this procedure. 

What is meant by Oculoplasty?

As discussed above, oculoplasty of the eye is one of the popular and widely performed procedures by ophthalmologists. But what is meant by oculoplasty? Let’s discuss it further to understand.

Commonly termed oculoplasty, ophthalmic plastic surgery is a surgical procedure of the eye and its associated structures, which is commonly performed to correct problems like eyelid malposition, problems with the orbit of the eye, tear drainage problems, eye cancer, and problems with the eyebrows. The oculoplasty done to correct the orbit of the eye is known as orbital oculoplasty. Orbit and oculoplasty is a procedure that deals with plastic and reconstructive surgery around the eyeball and surrounding structures. There are different types of oculoplastic procedures performed that are meant to correct various medical and cosmetic problems.

The type of oculoplastic surgery will differ according to the cause of the surgery. These types include eyelid surgery involving eyelid reconstruction, tear duct surgery, lifting the forehead and eyebrows, rejuvenating or enhancing facial features, pediatric oculoplastic surgery, and botox fillers. 

Who needs to get this procedure done?

Now that we have seen what oculoplastic surgery is, it is crucial to understand who needs to get this procedure done. There are various symptoms that you may face, for which oculoplasty may be considered by your ophthalmologist. Some of the common symptoms that may make you eligible for oculoplasty are as follows:

• Droopy eyelids or ptosis
• Excessive blinking of eyes
• Twitching of eyes
• Tear drainage problems due to blocked tear ducts
• Eye cancer
• Wrinkles, scars or folds around the eye
• Bulging eyes

If you are suffering from the above symptoms, it is very likely that your ophthalmologist may suggest you consider undergoing oculoplasty of the eye. Considering the type and severity of your symptoms your doctor will suggest to you the oculoplastic procedure to be performed. 

How long does it take to recover from an oculoplastic surgery?

Knowing what to expect before and after oculoplasty is also important before making the decision of going ahead with the procedure. Before the procedure is performed you should take advice about diet and other preoperative care from your ophthalmologist. As far as what happens after the surgery is concerned, the main focus is always on the recovery time. 

Usually the recovery after oculoplasty can be divided in three stages—bruising, swelling and maturation. The first stage takes about 2 to 3 weeks, the stage of swelling is variable and may last up to 8 weeks, and the healing will continue gradually. However, going back to work and your normal day to day activities can be done in 5 to 10 days after your surgery. How fast you return to your work will mostly depend on your comfort level and with proper post-operative care you can start as soon as you like.

Why CFS?

Centre for Sight works with the mission of providing best eye care for all. With its carefully handpicked team of doctors and support medical staff, it promises to deliver the best possible treatment to all its patients. Centre for Sight has a team of expert surgeons who are there to serve you with procedures like oculoplasty. 

Article: What is Oculoplasty and its recovery period?
Author: CFS Editorial Team  |   Apr 21 2022 | UPDATED 02:00 IST

*The views expressed here are solely those of the author in his private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of Centre for Sight.