Oculoplastic Surgery

What is Oculoplastic Surgery?

Oculoplastic Surgery, also known as Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive, Oculofacial or Eye Plastic Surgery, is a surgical subspecialty of Ophthalmology that deals with the medical and surgical management of deformities and abnormalities of the eyelids, lacrimal (tear) system, orbit (bony socket) and the adjacent face. An Oculoplastic Surgeon is an Ophthalmologist (medical doctor and eye surgeon) who has completed additional advanced training in plastic surgery as it relates to the eyes and surrounding structures.

The word plastic is derived from a Greek word that means to mold or to give form. Plastic surgery is surgery that molds or reconstructs parts of the human body. Oculoplastic Surgery is plastic surgery as it pertains to the area around the eye. The eyelids and surrounding areas are extremely complex and delicate structures that are vital to the preservation of sight and are important features of a normal facial appearance. Since surgery in this area can affect one’s ability to see, Oculoplastic Surgeons are uniquely qualified to perform this delicate surgery and to provide care the eye itself may need during surgery.

After medical school, a future Oculoplastic Surgeon will complete a 5 residency in Ophthalmology, after which time two additional years are spent in advanced fellowship training in Ophthalmic Plastic, Orbit and Reconstructive Surgery.

This gives the Oculoplastic Surgeon an unparalleled level of training and experience to deal with the complex issues involved in plastic surgery pertaining to the eye and oculofacial region.