Oculoplastics is the term used to describe corrective surgery procedures which treat conditions relating to the eye lid, eye socket or tear ducts. Oculoplastic surgery is often required where patients are experiencing vision problems, severe irritation and discomfort.
Thanks to our highly experienced team of expert ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons at ACES, we offer treatments for a number of oculoplastic lid conditions that aid visual function including tear duct surgery to clear blocked tear ducts and upper and lower blepharoplasty to repair drooping eyelids.
Dry Eye
Dry eye is an irritating condition which causes the eyes to feel gritty, sore and tired. It is caused by a blockage in the eye’s oil-producing glands within the eyelids, which causes the water in the eye to evaporate quickly whilst being unable to reproduce at the same rate.
Drooping Eyelids (ptosis)
Ptosis occurs when there is a problem with the muscles or nerves in the eye lids which cause the lid to hang lower than normal. In more severe cases the eyelid can droop low enough that it covers the pupil, causing visual impairment. Ptosis is typically found in older people when muscles begin to deteriorate with age but some people can also be born with the condition. Ptosis can also develop through long-term contact lens use or from trauma to the eye.
Outward Turning Eyelids (ectropion)
Ectropion occurs when the lower eyelid sags and turns outward away from the eye, exposing the under surface of the eyelid. This condition often causes eyes to become red, sore and irritated and affects the drainage of the eye, resulting in dry eye and in some cases serious eye infections.
At ACES our team of clinical experts will assess your eye condition and recommend if treatment is required. Based on their analysis, a treatment plan will be recommended to you.
Each oculoplastics treatment plan is designed specifically for each individual patient’s eye conditions, from minor procedures to more complex surgeries. Treatment options available at ACES include:
Upper and lower blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) – cosmetic surgery which removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids.
Dacryocystorhinostomy (Tear duct surgery) – A procedure which reopens the passage for the flow of tears to a normal state. Plastic tubes are temporarily inserted in the passage to keep it open and allow for optimal healing. These are typically then removed 6-8 weeks following surgery.
Your ACES consultant will discuss your best course of treatment and fully discuss your options with you.
Not all oculoplastic procedures are available on the NHS and each condition is assessed on a case by case basis. The majority of patients who are eligible for treatment with NHS funding are those who are suffering functional difficulty due to their condition. Your GP or optometrist will be able to make an initial assessment and if necessary, refer you to ACES where our experienced consultants will carry out a further assessment and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
