For this guest feature, Tristan Reuser, an Oculoplastics Consultant at Midland Eye, guides us through oculoplastic surgery, also known as eye plastic surgery. Below, he explains the benefits of this branch of ophthalmology, covering aspects such as functional and aesthetic concerns and the associated costs.
Eye plastic surgery plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health and improving the quality of life for many individuals. Those working in this specialised field focus on the supportive structures that are vital for proper eye function and facial aesthetics—not the eyeball itself.
Oculoplastic surgery encompasses procedures involving the eyelids, tear ducts, orbit (eye socket), and the surrounding facial structures. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions, which can be broadly categorised into trauma cases, medical issues affecting vision, and cosmetic concerns.
Trauma Cases
Trauma to the eye area can result in severe injuries requiring immediate attention. These traumatic incidents commonly include falls resulting in facial injuries, foreign object injuries (such as children accidentally poking themselves with pencils), violent assaults, and animal bites, particularly dog bites.
Oculoplastic surgeons often work alongside emergency room physicians to provide specialised care in these situations, aiming to restore both function and appearance.
Medical Issues
Many medical conditions can significantly impact vision and eye health. Some of the more common medical issues that can be addressed with eye plastic surgery include:
Ptosis: This condition, characterised by drooping upper eyelids, can obstruct vision if severe. Ptosis repair surgery can lift the eyelid to its proper position, improving both vision and appearance.
Ectropion and Entropion: These conditions involve the eyelid turning outward (ectropion) or inward (entropion), leading to irritation, tearing, and potential corneal damage. Ectropion can cause runny eyes, while entropion may lead to a scratchy sensation and even vision loss if left untreated. Surgical correction can restore proper eyelid position and protect the eye.
Chalazion: These are blocked oil glands in the eyelids that can cause redness, swelling and discomfort. While often resolving on their own, persistent chalazia may require surgical intervention.
Many of these medically necessary procedures are covered by the NHS, subject to specific criteria and local funding policies. However, it’s worth noting that coverage can vary depending on your local Integrated Care Board’s policies.
Cosmetic Concerns
While not medically necessary, cosmetic eye procedures can significantly impact self-esteem and perceived quality of life:
Blepharoplasty: Often called an “eye lift,” this procedure removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids, creating a more refreshed and youthful appearance. In some cases, upper eyelid blepharoplasty may be covered by the NHS if excess skin significantly impairs vision.
Under-eye Rejuvenation: Various techniques, including fat repositioning or filler injections, can address under-eye hollows and dark circles.
Eyebrow Lifts: This procedure can restore a more alert and youthful appearance to the upper face.
It’s important to note that purely cosmetic procedures are not typically covered by the NHS. However, many clinics offer financing options to make these treatments more accessible, and some may be available via private health insurance.
The Eye Plastic Surgery Process
The journey typically begins with a comprehensive consultation. If surgery is recommended, patients receive detailed information about the procedure, including potential risks and expected outcomes.
For cosmetic procedures, there’s typically a two-week cooling-off period to allow patients time to consider their options or seek a second opinion.
Many eye plastic surgeries can be performed under local anaesthesia, allowing patients to return home the same day. This approach is often preferred as it requires less recovery time and carries fewer risks than general anaesthesia.
Recovery times vary depending on the specific procedure. With any eye plastic surgery, some bruising and swelling is expected due to the sensitivity of the tissue around the eye. Depending on your profession, most patients can resume normal activities within one to two weeks, though complete healing may take several months. Surgeons provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results and minimise complications.
Waiting Times and Costs
Waiting times for eye plastic surgery can vary significantly depending on whether you’re pursuing treatment through the NHS or privately. NHS waiting times can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the urgency of your condition and local resources. Private treatment typically offers shorter waiting times, with many clinics able to schedule procedures within a few weeks.
Costs for private treatments vary depending on the specific procedure. As a general guide, treatment for small lumps and bumps might cost around £500, while more complex procedures like correcting drooping eyelids could be in the region of £2,500. Many clinics offer detailed pricing information on their websites or during the initial consultation.
If you suffer from an eye condition, it’s always best to consult your GP or a specialised eye clinic to ensure it isn’t the result of a more serious underlying condition. Even if the issue is purely cosmetic, that doesn’t mean you need to suffer. Eye plastic surgery provides the care you need to maintain healthy, functional, and confident eyes throughout your life.
About the Author
Tristan Reuser is an Oculoplastics Consultant at Midland Eye. Midland Eye was founded by four ophthalmic surgeons who wanted to provide patients with a comprehensive, specialist service for diagnosing and treating all eye conditions.
The team is a leader in their field and offers a consultant-only service to all patients requiring eye care or surgery. Every consultant is qualified to treat common eye conditions such as cataracts but each one also has a particular area of specialisation, ensuring that patients get the best possible outcome, no matter what the diagnosis.
Private patients can benefit from access to collaborative care and facilities with the latest technology. The clinic’s approach is designed to be convenient for people who lead busy lives and have limited time to seek medical advice and treatment.