As one of the leading oculoplastic surgery practices in Los Angeles, the Eyesthetica team receives a lot of questions about their specialty. We thought it would be helpful to blog about oculoplastic surgery and what differentiates it from ophthalmology (and plastic surgery). Here, we share what you need to know about oculoplastic surgeons.
Basic Definition
An oculoplastic surgeon is an ophthalmologist with special training that evaluates and treats diseases and conditions affecting the eyelids, lacrimal (tear) system, orbit (bones and anatomical structures behind the eyeball), and adjacent areas of the face.
Background and Training
Oculoplastic surgeons graduate from medical school and complete an ophthalmology residency program, gaining certification as an ophthalmologist. After their residency, they complete an additional year or two of fellowship training that focuses on surgery of the eyelids and upper face. Through this training, the oculoplastic surgeon gains the experience needed to garner the safest and most aesthetically pleasing results of surgery.
Oculoplastic surgeons have the option of becoming members of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS), which is the primary organizing body for oculoplastic surgery. Admission to this elite organization requires the completion of an approved fellowship program and passing a rigorous examination of their knowledge and skills. All of the Eyesthetica doctors are members of ASOPRS.
Scope of Practice
Oculoplastic surgeons focus on diseases and conditions affecting the eyelids, orbit, and tear system. They evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of disorders, including the following:
- ptosis (drooping eyelids)
- malformations of the eyelids
- trauma or lacerations
- entropion (turned-in eyelid) or ectropion (turned-out eyelid)
- eyelid spasms
- thyroid eye disease (i.e., Graves’ disease)
- orbital tumors
- orbital fractures
- blocked tear duct
- abnormal tear drain
- trauma to the lacrimal system
- abnormal or unexplained tearing
Oculoplastic surgeons also work with patients that desire cosmetic rejuvenation of the eyelids, eyes, and surrounding face. They offer procedures to refresh aging, tired or drooping eyes and minimize noticeable lines, wrinkles, and under-eye bags.
Cosmetic procedures include the following:
- Upper and lower eyelid surgery
- Asian eyelid surgery to create a double fold (eyelid crease)
- Brow lift surgery
- Facial resurfacing
- Facial rejuvenation with Botox and dermal fillers
- Chemical peels
- Eyelash enhancement with Latisse
Speak with Our Oculoplastic Surgeons Today
If you would like to speak with a qualified oculoplastic surgeon regarding a medical or cosmetic concern about your eyelids, eyes, or adjacent areas of the face, please request a consultation with a member of the Eyesthetica team. Call us at (213) 451-6824 or send us an email today.