Plastic Surgery (Oculoplastics)

Oculoplastics deals with the structures around the eye such as the eyelids and eyebrows. Changes that occur in these structures can range from cosmetic to life threatening. The physicians at EyeHealth Northwest are trained to detect and treat these conditions. In addition, a fellowship trained Oculoplastics specialist (Dr. Prashanth Vallabhanath) is available for treatment, consultation and second opinions.

The most common eyelid conditions such as baggy skin (dermatochalasis) or droopy lids (ptosis) are age related. They are caused by gravity and stretching of the tissues in the lids-this can sometimes be enough to block the vision. Dermatochalasis and ptosis can often be repaired with an outpatient surgical procedure. If the vision is significantly affected by the lids, insurance may cover the procedure.

Ectropion	Entropion

The eyelids may also either turn out (ectropion) or roll inward (entropion). Ectropion often results in tearing and redness of the eyes. It is also caused by looseness of the lid structures caused by aging. Sometimes sun-damage to the skin can contribute to this problem. Entropion has similar causes, but in this case, the lids roll inward and cause eye pain and irritation from the lashes rubbing against the eye. Both of these are corrected with an out-patient surgical procedure which is usually covered by insurance.

Although tearing can be caused by lid malpositions, it is sometimes caused by a block in the tear drainage system. This usually causes fairly constant tearing without eye irritation. Sometimes a simple procedure can be used to open and dilate the drainage duct. Often, if the blockage is severe, a surgery is required to by-pass the tear drainage duct blockage.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

As the population ages, eyelid tumors are becoming more and more common. The most common lid tumor is also one of the most common skin cancers: basal cell carcinoma. Your ophthalmologist will check your lids during your exam for lid tumors. Often, the tumor can be surgical removed and the lid reconstructed with minimal scarring. Larger tumors will need more involved reconstruction.

Protecting your eyes and skin from sun damage is the best way to prevent these problems.

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