Oculoplastics at Spectrum Eye Physicians
The eyelids and surrounding eye structures play a crucial role in protecting your eyes, maintaining clear vision, and enhancing facial symmetry. Given their delicate nature, any condition affecting the eyelids—whether functional or cosmetic—requires a specialized surgical approach. Dr. Tarek El-Sawy is a highly trained oculoplastic surgeon specializing in corrective and reconstructive procedures for the eyelids, tear ducts, and orbit.
Our oculoplastic services are available across the Bay Area, including locations in Cupertino, Santa Cruz, and Los Gatos.
Droopy Eyelids (Ptosis Repair)
What is Ptosis?
Ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid droops over the eye, which can lead to vision obstruction, eye strain, and an aged or tired appearance. This condition can affect one or both eyes and is often caused by:
- Aging-related weakening of the eyelid muscles
- Congenital ptosis (present at birth)
- Neurological disorders affecting eyelid control
- Previous eye surgery or trauma
Ptosis Repair
Ptosis surgery focuses on tightening or repositioning the eyelid muscles to restore a natural, lifted appearance while improving the field of vision. The procedure thas a quick recovery time, with most patients resuming normal activities in 1 to 2 weeks.
Eyelid Malposition
What Are Entropion & Ectropion?
Entropion: The eyelid turns inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the cornea, leading to irritation, tearing, and potential damage.
Ectropion: The eyelid turns outward, leaving the eye exposed and prone to dryness, irritation, and infection.
Causes & Symptoms
The most common cause of eyelid malposition is aging-related tissue laxity, which weakens the eyelid’s natural support structure. However, it can also result from previous eye surgery, trauma, or nerve damage.
Patients experiencing chronic eye irritation, redness, excessive tearing, or discomfort may have an underlying eyelid malposition.
Treatment Options
Eyelid tightening surgery is an effective solution to restore the normal position of the eyelid, improving function and appearance. With quick healing times, patients can experience relief while preventing further eye damage caused by prolonged exposure or friction.
Eyelid Reconstruction
Eyelid reconstruction is a procedure that restores the form and function of the eyelids following:
- Trauma or injury
- Eyelid cancer removal (Mohs surgery)
- Congenital eyelid defects
Surgical Approach
Using tissue grafts and flap techniques, surgeons carefully rebuild lost tissue while ensuring the eyelid retains its natural movement and protection for the eye. Each procedure is tailored to achieve the best possible aesthetic and functional outcome, allowing for a smoother recovery and improved eye health.
Blocked Tear Ducts & Excessive Tearing
Excessive tearing, known as epiphora, is often caused by blockages in the tear drainage system or malfunctioning tear ducts. Without proper drainage, tears overflow, leading to constant eye watering, irritation, and blurred vision.
Treatment Options
- Minimally invasive tear duct procedures to restore proper drainage
- Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)—a surgical procedure that creates a new drainage passage
- Stenting techniques to keep the tear ducts open
Thyroid Eye Disease
What is Thyroid Eye Disease?
Thyroid eye disease (TED), often linked to Graves' disease, is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the tissues around the eyes. This leads to:
- Bulging eyes (exophthalmos)
- Lid retraction and swelling
- Double vision and discomfort
- Pressure or pain around the eyes
Treatment Approaches
- Eyelid surgery can help correct eyelid retraction, allowing the eyelids to close more fully and protect the eyes.
- Orbital decompression surgery reduces pressure around the eyes by creating more space in the eye socket, helping to relieve bulging and discomfort.
- In some cases, medications are used to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
What is Oculoplastics?
Oculoplastics is a field covering surgical treatment of the structures surrounding the eyes, including the tear glands, eyelids and orbital or facial bones.
More Than Meets the Eye
Oculoplastics is one of the few medical specialties that blends ophthalmology with plastic surgery, allowing specialists to address function and aesthetics.
Advanced Oculoplastic Surgery in The Bay Area
- Specialized training in oculoplastic procedures ensures precision and expertise.
- Personalized approach focused on both aesthetic and functional results.
- Minimally invasive techniques for a natural look with optimal healing.
- Advanced surgical methods for eyelid, tear duct, and orbital corrections.
Ready to take the next step in restoring function and enhancing the appearance of your eyes? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tarek El-Sawy to learn more about our personalized treatments and advanced care options.