Oculoplastic surgery or ophthalmic plastic surgery is a dynamic and specialised field of ophthalmology. It focuses on the eyelids, eye socket, tear ducts and other associated structures around the eye. Oculoplastic surgery could be performed to correct a medical problem, to improve comfort, or for cosmetic reasons.
There are a wide variety of oculoplastic surgical procedures that include those for reconstructive or functional purposes and those for orbital oncology purposes. The ophthalmologists at Kloof Eye perform two common oculoplastic surgeries. Let’s take a look at each one in more detail.
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I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. You must avoid rubbing your eyes, wearing contact lenses, and heavy lifting for at least two weeks post-op. For our DCR patients in Constantia Park and Waterkloof, it is also critical not to blow your nose for the first 10 days to prevent air from being forced under the skin or causing a nosebleed. Medical aids typically cover DCR surgery and functional Blepharoplasty if a visual field test proves your sight is impaired. If the surgery is purely for aesthetic rejuvenation, it is classified as “cosmetic” and is usually an out-of-pocket expense; we recommend checking with providers like Discovery or Momentum regarding your specific plan benefits. A soft silicone tube is temporarily placed in the new drainage channel to keep it open while the internal tissues heal. This stent is usually invisible to others and is easily removed by our specialists in Pretoria during a quick, painless follow-up visit roughly 6 to 12 weeks after the procedure. Endoscopic DCR is often preferred because it is performed entirely through the nostril, leaving no external scar on the face. During your consultation at Kloof Eye, we will evaluate your nasal anatomy to determine if the “scarless” endoscopic approach or the traditional external method will provide the most reliable long-term drainage for you. A DCR is a specialised surgery to create a new drainage pathway between the tear sac and the nose to bypass a blocked tear duct. At our Erasmuskloof rooms, we perform this to resolve chronic “watery eyes” (epiphora) and prevent recurrent, painful infections caused by stagnant tears. Most patients return to work and social activities within 7 to 10 days, though full healing continues for several weeks. You should expect some bruising and swelling—often described as a “black eye” effect—which can be managed with cold compresses and by avoiding strenuous exercise in the dry Gauteng heat for the first two weeks. No, incisions for Blepharoplasty are carefully hidden within the natural creases of the upper eyelid or just inside the lower lid. At Kloof Eye, our surgical techniques focus on “invisible” healing; most patients find that any redness fades rapidly, leaving a refreshed look without obvious signs of surgery. Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin or fat from the eyelids, and it can be both functional and cosmetic. While many patients in Pretoria East seek eyelid surgery for a rejuvenated appearance, it is often medically necessary if sagging upper lids (ptosis) obstruct your peripheral vision or cause heavy eye strain. Oculoplastic Surgery FAQ