FAQs
What is an Oculoplastic Surgeon?
Oculoplastic surgeons are ophthalmologists (eye doctors) who specialise in eyelid and facial plastic surgery and understand how eyelid surgery can affect the comfort of the eye and the clarity of vision. They are trained to perform many different types of eyelid and facial surgery; this can range from correcting simple eyelid malposition to more complex reconstruction involving the eyelids and surrounding forehead, temporal and cheek areas.
As well as the eyelids, they specialise in the lacrimal (tear) system, the orbit (bone cavity around the eye), adjacent periocular (around the eyes) and facial structures and the forehead and cheeks.
Oculoplastic Surgeons have full understanding of the delicate anatomy and function of the eyelids and their surrounding structures. They are also known as ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgeons and oculo-facial surgeons.
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Oculoplastic surgeons assess the surface health of the eyes and function of the eyelids prior to eyelid plastic surgery
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As dedicated eyelid plastic surgeons, an oculoplastic surgeon routinely does surgeries in these areas, and recognises potential problems
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Oculoplastic surgeons are trained to manage the complications or eyelid and facial plastic surgery which can involve the eye itself
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Oculoplastic surgeons have a professional society which helps them maintain a high standard of care, called the British Oculoplastic Surgery Society.
Why are Oculoplastic Surgeons important around the eyes?
Oculoplastic surgeons are trained ophthalmologists (eye doctors) who understand how eyelid surgery can affect the comfort of the eye and the clarity of vision. They are accustomed to working around the eye and face.
What happens at the consultation?
Mrs Hemmant will examine your eyes, eyelids and face and ask about your general health. This will include questions about allergies, any medications you may be taking, especially aspirin and other over the counter tablets, and whether you smoke. Your vision will be tested and your eyelids, tear film and front of the eye will be checked, as well as a retinal examination, (dilating drops may be required). Your face and condition of your skin will be examined, and position of the eyebrows and eyelids will be measured. Pre-operative photographs will be taken as a baseline for planning the surgery and for comparison with the results after surgery.
You will be advised whether just the eyelids or the eyebrows too need operating on and whether BOTOX (botulinum toxin) or other non-surgical treatment is recommended. You will also be given an information sheet about your particular surgery and if you are on medication, you will be advised on whether this is safe to take prior to your operation or if you should stop. You may be required to undergo a general health check by your general practitioner, including heart and blood tests.
What is blepharoplasty - eye lid lift?
This is a surgical procedure to remove excess tissue – skin, muscle and sometimes fat, from the upper and/or lower eyelids. It is often done in conjunction with other treatment such as a brow lift and Botox. There are cosmetic and functional reasons for blepharoplasty surgery.