Introduction to our functional procedures
Ophthalmology is the field of medicine that encompasses all aspects of eye care (medical, surgical and optical). Ophthalmic (eye) plastic surgery, or oculoplastic surgery, is a specialized area of ophthalmology that deals with the tissues and bones which surround, support and enhance the normal function of the eyes. Oculoplastic surgeons are ophthalmologists (medical doctors) that have specialized training in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery around the eye and mid-facial region, in addition to board certification in ophthalmology.
The field of ophthalmic plastic surgery may initially appear to be an exotic sub-specialty that is only needed for trauma or unusual situations. However, with casual observation you may find children and adults with problems such as, droopy or baggy eyelids, tearing, eyelid malpositions (turning out, turning inward or retracted), bulging eyes, significant eyelid asymmetry, birth defects, eyelid twitching, brow or forehead furrows, a mass (mole, lump or inflammation) of the eyelid or a small/deformed eye that an oculoplastic surgeon can repair or improve.
Functional Procedures offered
We offer a variety of functional procedures and services.
- Ptosis Surgery, also called "drooping eyelid" - Ptosis is caused by weakness of the muscle responsible for raising the eyelid, damage to the nerves which control those muscles, or laxity of the skin of the upper eyelids.
- Functional Blepharoplasty, is another way to have a drooping or puffy eyelid. A functional blepharoplasty describes a surgery performed specifically to improve vision. When excess skin restricts vision by overhanging the eyelid margin or excessively weighting the eyelid to a lower position, it can reduce the amount you see when reading or looking above.
- Botox for Eyelid and Facial Spasms is a safe and effective medication and has been used for treating muscle overactivity for decades. Dr Edelstein was involved as one of the clinical investigators in the mid-1980's.
- Tearing Problems - Symptomatic tearing is one of the most frustrating problems for patients. When tearing becomes excessive it can interfere with your vision, cause eyelid redness and irritation or be associated with an infection. Among golfers, tearing can add strokes to your game!
- Eyelid malpositions are the result of forces acting upon the eyelid margin. A normal eyelid should have a quick return snap to the eyeball.
- Thyroid eye disease is an immune system disorder, or body inflammation, that may result in minor or significant changes in the appearance and function of the eyes.
- Enucleation, or eye removal - Eye removal may be necessary due to ocular pain, glaucoma, trauma, globe shrinkage, infections, inflammation or tumors. The goal of the procedure is to remove the offending eye, protect the remaining eye, provide facial symmetry and allow movement of the ocular prosthesis(false eye).
- Eyelid & Orbital Tumors that commonly involve the eyelid and its surrounding structures usually require a surgical procedure to diagnose and/or treat. The advances in medical science over the past several decades have allowed us to successful diagnose, treat and even cure many tumors.
These problems may have profound effects on the function of the eyelids, the orbit (eye socket), the tear drainage system and the eye itself, which can directly interfere with normal vision. Insurance plans frequently cover the cost of repairing problems that may threaten vision. Although cosmetic surgery is rarely covered by insurance plans, the cost of addressing your cosmetic concerns may be less than you anticipate. Clearly, cosmetic surgery is no longer exclusively for "the rich and famous." We routinely provide written cost estimates in advance of the cosmetic surgery.
There are a variety of physicians and para-professionals with an interest in functional and cosmetic surgery of the mid-facial region. However, oculoplastic surgeons combine the skills of a board certified ophthalmologist with fellowship training in plastic surgery techniques to diagnose and treat both common and complex problems related to the eyes and surrounding structures. This role includes the integration of related specialists as a team, when necessary, for medical, surgical, optical or prosthetic restoration of the tissues and bones surrounding the eye. A membership in The American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Inc. indicates that your oculoplastic surgeon has exceptional training in this field.
* All procedure photos are Dr E’s patients pictured before and approximately five weeks after surgery