Oculoplastics is an important part of ophthalmology. Oculoplastic specialists treat both adults and children.

These are three structures of concern to the oculoplastic specialist: the orbit, the eyelids, and the tear duct drainage system. The orbit is the bony socket that protects the eyeball, orbital fat, eye muscles, and surrounding structures. The weakest part of the orbit is its floor, which is often the site of an injury called a blowout fracture. When this happens, double vision and facial numbness can occur. There is a window of time during which corrective action should be taken.

The eyelids protect the globe. We take them for granted but a lot can go wrong including droopy upper lids, sagging lower lids, eyelid tumors, and trauma. Surgery for these maladies is often needed. Knowledge of intricate anatomy and good technique is key. The upper lid has seven layers, depending upon where it is being transected!

The third component is the lacrimal drainage system. This system is comprised of the punctum, canaliculi, and lacrimal duct. Thousands of times per day tears (with the help of the eyelids) move through the punctum, canaliculi, and lacrimal duct to the inferior meatus area underneath the inferior turbinate.