What Is Oculoplastics?
Oculoplastic Surgery, or Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, is a term used to define a subspecialty of the field of Ophthalmology. It entails treatment of conditions affecting the eyes and surrounding areas including brows, cheeks and face.
Oculoplastic surgeons are ophthalmologists who undergo further training and specialization in medical and surgical management of conditions affecting the periorbital and facial tissues, including the eyelids, eyebrows, orbit (bony cavity or eye socket), lacrimal (tear) system, cheeks and forehead.
To understand it better, the term Oculoplastics can be broken down into its derivates: Oculo- pertains to the eye and plastos is Greek for “formed or molded”. As a whole the term Oculoplastics defines plastics surgery pertaining to the eye and surrounding areas.
The reason why this specialty has been given such importance and significance is that the eyelids and periorbital regions are extremely complex, intricate and delicate structures with a vital role in preservation of sight and protection of the eye itself. Abnormalities and deformities of the oculofacial areas can cause devastating and sometimes irreparable vision loss. By the same token, aesthetically-enhancing procedures that go awry in this area can also cause more than just facial deformity…they can result in irremediable damage to vision.
Oculoplastic surgeons undergo advanced training to gain the level of expertise that sets them apart in this specialty. After completing medical school, they complete a 1-year internship and then a 3-year residency in the competitive field of ophthalmology. It is after this that they embark on highly-coveted fellowship training in Ophthalmic Plastic, Reconstructive and Orbital Surgery.
It is particularly noteworthy that during fellowship training, Oculoplastic surgeons spend their entire time training on the oculofacial areas and orbit, giving them an unparalleled level of experience and training to perform this delicate surgery and provide care to the eye itself. This is what makes Oculoplastics so unique and sets apart Oculoplastic Surgeons from their general plastic surgery colleagues.
We believe that choosing the right surgeon is a critical decision in your choice to have cosmetic or reconstructive surgery around your eyes. Dr. Sami has both the experience and reputation of providing exceptional results and compassionate care.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sami, please do not hesitate to contact us at 713-668-1264 so we can help enhance your life.