Ocuplastic, Orbital, and Lacrimal Disease and Surgery

The WVU Eye Institute’s oculoplastic surgeons specialize in evaluating and treating diseases and abnormalities of the eyelid, the structures around the eye (known as the orbit), and the tear drainage system, or the lacrimal system.

Common problems that require oculoplastic and orbital surgery include:

• facial fractures and injuries
• tumors
• droopy eyelids
• blocked tear ducts
• skin cancer
• birth deformities
• thyroid eye disease

Eyelid position problems can occur as people age or from disease. The eyelid can become droopy; the eyelid skin can become redundant (too much skin); and sometimes the eyelid can turn in or out. The position of the eyelid is vital to the health of the eye, and our oculoplastic surgeons can correct problems with incorrectly positioned eyelids.

Skin cancer can occur in the eyelids and around the eyes. Any discoloration, bump, or new growth on the eyelid should be examined by an eye doctor. Problem signs include bleeding, rapid growth, or destruction of the normal eyelid appearance.

There are many diseases that affect the eyelid and the structures around it. The range of orbital disease and surgery encompasses problems such as

• thyroid eye disease (Graves orbitopathy)
• cancer
• infection
• congenital and vascular malformations

The WVU Eye Institute has a specialized clinic for patients with thyroid eye disease.

Cancer and other diseases and malformations of the orbit can often involve surrounding structures, like the sinuses and brain. At West Virginia University, we have a team of neurosurgeons, head and neck surgeons, and interventional radiologists who work together on these complex diseases. Our oculoplastic surgeons contribute to this skull base team, and have experience not only in treatment of theses orbital processes but in reconstruction of the orbit as well.

A common complaint of many patients, both children and adults, is tearing. Tearing can occur for many reasons, including a blocked tear drainage system. Our doctors specialize in treatment of nasal lacrimal duct obstruction. New methods, including endoscopic surgery are done here at WVU.

There are many disorders of facial movement, including benign essential blepharospasm and hemi-facial spasm. These can sometimes be treated with BOTOX. BOTOX is purified botulinum toxin, which when injected locally, prevents a muscle from contracting. Ophthalmologist have been using BOTOX for many years in the treatment of these disorders. BOTOX can also be used for cosmetic purposes. Follow this link to learn more about our enhanced cosmetic procedures.