Functional & Reconstructive
Reconstructive and functional surgery is performed to improve the function or appearance of the face that is abnormal because of congenital deformities (birth defects) or developmental deformities (i.e. damaged from injury, infection, disease, surgery, etc.). Reconstructive surgery differs from cosmetic surgery, which is performed to change the appearance of a normal feature. To discover how our board-certified surgeons combine rigorous clinical training with dedicated patient care, visit our about page. You can learn more about how insurance criteria and clinical guidelines distinguish reconstructive procedures from elective treatments on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website.
Droopy Upper Eyelids (Ptosis Repair)
Drooping eyelids, or ptosis, may be congenital, the result of an injury or acquired over time as muscles thin and stretch through the normal aging process. This drooping occurs when the muscles that lift the eyelid are not strong enough to do so properly and may require surgical repair.
Eyelid Malposition
Laxity of eyelid tendons combined with weakening of muscles with age commonly cause entropion, although it could also occur as a result of trauma or scarring. Common causes of ectropion include age-related tendon laxity, trauma, scarring, or facial nerve paralysis associated with Bell’s Palsey.
Eyelid Reconstruction
In the unfortunate event of trauma or eyelid cancer, eyelid reconstruction may be necessary to maintain eyelid function and preserve vision while achieving an aesthetically natural appearance. Eyelid reconstruction, although not as involved as for cancer or trauma, can also come into play with conditions such as droopy eyelids or entropion/ectropion.
Orbital Tumors & Fractures
The orbit is a series of bones that comprise the eye socket. Orbital fractures can result from trauma and may require surgical repair if accompanied by double vision, difficulty seeing, or deformity. Such surgery may involve exploration of the area to determine the full extent of the injury and implantation of various materials to rebuild and reinforce the wall of the orbit.
Blocked Tear Ducts
Tears are naturally created by the lacrimal gland to lubricate the eyeball. When you blink, these tears are spread over the surface to keep it moist and healthy while excess lubrication is emptied into the tear duct and drained into your nose. If the tear duct is blocked, your tears back up and spill over your eyelids as if you are crying.
