Who is a good candidate for oculoplastic surgery?

Have you recently been considering whether or not oculoplastic surgery is a suitable option for you and something that could benefit you? If so, this article will more than likely contain key bits of information you have been seeking as esteemed consultant ophthalmologist, Mrs Kapka Nenova, outlines the most common types of oculoplastic surgery, and tells us who is suitable for these different types of operations.

What are the most common types of oculoplastic surgery?

Some of the most common are ectropion surgery, entropion surgery, blepharochalasis, and surgery for lid skin cancers. Not only do these conditions cause severe discomfort, but they can also have an adverse cosmetic impact, so surgery is always advisable.

How safe are these types of procedures?

The most common risks are infection, bleeding, bruising, asymmetry, scarring, as well as recurrence of the condition. You might be advised to stop some of your regular medications for certain amounts of time prior to the surgery in order to reduce the risk of complications.

Who is a good candidate for oculoplastic surgery?

Patients with healthy skin and who have a normal coagulation status have better chances of a quicker recovery and less scarring with the surgery. Patients who suffer from conditions such as eczema, acne, rosacea, psoriasis, lupus, and other autoimmune skin conditions, are at a high risk of developing post-operative infection and scarring, as well as poor healing or recurrence of the condition.

Is plastic surgery painful?

This type of surgery is typically performed under local or general anaesthetic depending on the patient's preference and ability to tolerate pain. Once the local anaesthetic is injected, there will be minimal to no discomfort, and it is usually tolerated very well.

Whilst recovering, you may experience soreness to touch, tightness, and discomfort. Pain, redness, and discharge are usually symptoms of infection and so you should seek medical advice if you notice any of these specific symptoms.

What is involved in the recovery period following oculoplastic plastic surgery?

Generally, you will be advised to apply cold ice for the first 24 hours to reduce the risk of bruising and bleeding again. You might be given oral antibiotics or topical cream to apply for between five to seven days. You should avoid rubbing or touching the site of the operation. Usually, the stitches used are resorbable and fall off spontaneously within two months, but can be removed sooner if they cause discomfort.

To schedule in an appointment with Mrs Kapka Nenova, simply head on over to her Top Doctors profile today.