Reconstructive Surgery

When Is Reconstructive Surgery Needed?

Ophthalmic reconstructive surgery, as opposed to cosmetic surgery, is performed when structures of the eyes and surrounding area have been damaged due to:

• Trauma
• Birth Defects
• Developmental Abnormalities
• Disease or Infection
• Tumors
• Cancer
• Previous Surgery

While reconstructive surgery is typically performed to improve function and health, it may also be done to address cosmetic concerns as well. Your surgeon will perform a thorough examination and assess your situation to decide on the best course of action to restore both function and appearance.

Types of Reconstructive Surgeries

Reconstructive surgeries include:

• Eyelid Cancer Care – Procedures involving biopsy, complete excision, and/or reconstruction of the periocular region to clear you of cancer. Your oculoplastic surgeon may complete the excision and reconstruction solely or in combination with a Mohs surgeon (dermatologist) to remove skin cancer first followed by reconstruction the same day or, in rarer circumstances, in a delayed fashion.
• Eyelid Malposition Correction – The correction of the outward (ectropion), inward (entropion), or downward pull (lower lid retraction) of the lower eyelid.
• Eyelid Reconstruction – Undertaken to reconstruct the eyelids for a variety of reasons, including the removal of tumors or trauma.
• Lacrimal Surgery – Procedure undertaken to bypass an obstruction in the tear drainage system.
• Orbital Decompression – A surgery performed on a patient suffering from thyroid eye disease. The surgery expands the eye socket to make more space for a bulging eyeball to move back into place.
• Orbital Fractures and Traumatic Injury – Repairing injuries to the eye socket and surrounding tissue and bones.
• Orbital Tumors – Biopsy and removal of tumors found in the eye socket and surrounding area.
• Ptosis Repair – Lifting a droopy eyelid due to a weakened eyelid muscle or tendon.
• Revisional Plastic Surgery – Correcting complications of previous surgery.