Oculoplastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Oculoplastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery is a subspecialty of ophthalmology that focuses on conditions affecting the eyelids, tear drainage system, orbit (eye socket), and surrounding facial structures. These procedures are often performed to restore eye function, comfort, protection, and appearance, particularly when normal anatomy has been affected by ageing, disease, trauma, or congenital conditions.
At Eagle Eye Centre, oculoplastic and reconstructive procedures are performed by oculoplastic surgeons — ophthalmologists with advanced training in eyelid, orbital, and peri-ocular surgery. This specialised expertise is essential due to the complex anatomy and functional importance of the eye and its surrounding structures.
What is Oculoplastic surgery?
Oculoplastic surgery encompasses surgical procedures involving the eyelids, tear drainage system, orbit, and surrounding facial areas. Unlike purely cosmetic surgery, oculoplastic surgery places strong emphasis on eye protection, vision, eyelid function, and ocular health, while also addressing structural and aesthetic concerns when appropriate.
These procedures often require a detailed understanding of both ophthalmology and reconstructive surgical principles.
Quick facts about Oculoplastic & Reconstructive Surgery
- Subspecialty of ophthalmology focused on peri-ocular structures
- Addresses functional, reconstructive, and structural conditions
- May involve eyelids, tear ducts, orbit, and surrounding tissues
- Performed by trained oculoplastic surgeons
- Many procedures are performed as day surgery
Conditions treated
Oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery may be indicated for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Drooping eyelids (ptosis)
- Excess eyelid skin affecting vision
- Eyelid malpositions (inward or outward turning eyelids)
- Under-eye or eyelid swelling
- Tear duct obstruction or excessive tearing
- Eyelid and peri-ocular tumours
- Congenital eyelid abnormalities
- Trauma to the eyelids or orbit
- Orbital fractures or deformities
Each condition requires individualised assessment to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
Reconstructive vs functional surgery
In many cases, procedures address both functional and reconstructive needs simultaneously. Oculoplastic surgery may be broadly categorised into functional and reconstructive procedures:
Functional surgery
Aims to restore normal eyelid position, eye protection, tear drainage, or vision when these functions are impaired.
Reconstructive surgery
Focuses on repairing or rebuilding eyelid or peri-ocular structures following trauma, tumour removal, congenital conditions, or disease.
Common oculoplastic & reconstructive procedures
Your surgeon will advise on the most suitable procedure based on diagnosis and clinical findings. Depending on the underlying condition, oculoplastic surgeons may perform procedures such as:
Entropion repair
correction of inward-turning eyelids that irritate the eye surface
Ectropion repair
correction of outward-turning eyelids that cause tearing and exposure
Ptosis surgery
correction of drooping eyelids affecting vision or symmetry
Blepharoplasty
removal of excess eyelid skin or fat for functional or reconstructive reasons
Tear duct surgery (Dacryocystorhinostomy)
to relieve tear drainage obstruction
Orbital fracture repair
restoration of eye socket structure after trauma
Eyelid tumour excision and reconstruction
removal of abnormal tissue with careful reconstruction to preserve eyelid function
Surgical assessment & planning
Before surgery, a comprehensive assessment is performed, which may include:
- Detailed eye and eyelid examination
- Functional evaluation (e.g. eyelid position, tear drainage)
- Imaging or additional tests when indicated
- Discussion of treatment goals, risks, and expected outcomes
Surgical planning is individualised to ensure both safety and optimal functional results.
Recovery & aftercare
Post-operative care instructions are provided to support recovery and reduce complications. Recovery varies depending on the type and extent of surgery performed.
- Mild swelling or bruising is expected in the early recovery period
- Most procedures are done as day surgery
- Follow-up visits are arranged to monitor healing and outcomes
Risks and safety considerations
As with any surgical procedure, oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, dry eye symptoms, or recurrence of the condition. These risks are minimised through careful patient selection, surgical planning, and specialist expertise. All risks and alternatives are discussed during consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Ask us anything about how we can help you understand eye care better!
Oculoplastic surgery is primarily medical and functional in nature, although some procedures also improve appearance as part of restoring normal anatomy and function.
Claim eligibility varies depending on the clinical indication and the specific procedure performed. Patients are advised to check with the relevant governing bodies or their own insurance provider regarding coverage or reimbursement.
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort, which is usually manageable with prescribed medication.
Recovery time depends on the procedure. Initial swelling and bruising typically improve within 1–2 weeks, while full healing may take longer.
Suitability depends on the underlying condition, eye health, and overall medical history. A consultation with an oculoplastic surgeon is required for assessment.
Our Specialists
Our team includes fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeons with extensive experience in conditions affecting the eyelids, tear drainage system, orbit, and surrounding facial structures. With advanced subspecialty expertise in functional and reconstructive procedures, we provide highly customized, evidence-based care focused on restoring normal eyelid position, eye protection, and overall ocular health.
Dr Jean Chai
Director of Cornea Services, LASIK Services and Refractive Surgery
- LASIK
- EPI-LASIK
- Trans PRK
- Zeiss SMILE
- ICL
- Kids Myopia
- Diabetic Eye
- Cataract
- Eye Inflammation
- Floaters
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- Cornea Transplant
- Incision & Drainage
- General Eye Check
- Dry Eyes
- Presbyopia
Dr Julian Theng Thiam Siew
Group Chairman and Medical Director of Eagle Eye Centre
- LASIK
- EPI-LASIK
- Trans PRK
- Zeiss SMILE
- ICL
- Cataract
- Eye Inflammation
- Floaters
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- Cornea Transplant
- General Eye Check
- Dry Eyes
- Presbyopia
Dr Lynn Yeo
Director of Refractive Surgery and Comprehensive Ophthalmic Services
- LASIK
- EPI-LASIK
- Trans PRK
- Zeiss SMILE
- ICL
- Diabetic Eye
- Cataract
- Eye Inflammation
- Floaters
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- Incision & Drainage
- General Eye Check
- Dry Eyes
- Presbyopia
WHAT YOU SEE MATTERS
Schedule an eye check up
If you have concerns involving your eyelids, tear ducts, or the structures around your eyes, our oculoplastic surgeons at Eagle Eye Centre can assess your condition and advise on appropriate treatment options.