Oculoplastic Surgery
(Eye Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)

If you’re looking for expert care for eyelid, orbital, or facial concerns, Emory Eye Center’s oculoplastic team is here for you. Our surgeons are nationally recognized and fellowship-trained, offering advanced treatments for both medical and cosmetic needs — from droopy eyelids and tearing to facial rejuvenation.

We specialize in complex conditions like thyroid eye disease, orbital tumors, and facial trauma, and we work closely with other Emory specialists to ensure safe, comprehensive care. You’ll be in trusted hands every step of the way.

Whether you need surgery for function or are exploring cosmetic options, we’ll help you feel confident, comfortable, and cared for. Call 404-778-2020 or request your appointment online — we’re ready when you are.

At Emory Eye Center, our oculoplastic surgeons specialize in treating conditions affecting the eyelids, brows, tear drainage (lacrimal) system, midface, and the bones surrounding the eyes. All of our surgeons are fellowship-trained through ASOPRS, the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery — a prestigious and highly selective group of eye surgeons known for rigorous training and exceptional expertise. With this advanced background, we are uniquely equipped to deliver the highest level of care for both functional and cosmetic concerns involving the delicate structures around the eyes.

Oculoplastic surgeries we offer include:

• Eyelid Surgery: Our most frequently performed procedures include upper and lower blepharoplasty to remove excess skin or fat and ptosis repair to lift droopy eyelids that impair vision. We also correct eyelid malpositions such as entropion (inward turning) and ectropion (outward turning) to improve eyelid function and comfort.
• Canthoplasty and Lower Eyelid Tightening: These procedures help restore proper eyelid position and closure. Tightening the eyelid reduces eye surface exposure, relieving irritation, redness, and dryness caused by incomplete closure.
• Tear Duct Surgery: We offer dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) and Jones tube placement to treat blocked tear ducts that result in excessive tearing or infections. These procedures restore normal tear drainage and improve daily comfort.
• Orbital Surgery: Our surgeons manage complex orbital conditions, including tumor removal, fracture repair, and orbital decompression for thyroid eye disease. Orbital decompression creates more space within the socket to relieve pressure and reduce eye bulging.
• Reconstructive Surgery: We provide reconstructive solutions such as artificial eye implantation, eyelid reconstruction after trauma or skin cancer, and correction of congenital or thyroid-related eyelid deformities.
• Cosmetic Services: We also offer cosmetic procedures to rejuvenate the eyes and face, including cosmetic blepharoplasty, various types of brow lifts, midface lifting, and non-surgical treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers. These services are tailored to enhance facial aesthetics with natural-looking results and minimal downtime.
• Innovative Therapies: Our team also offers emerging treatments at the forefront of oculoplastic care, including corneal neurotization to restore sensation to anesthetic or neurotrophic corneas, and minor salivary gland transplantation for patients with severe dry eye. These advanced procedures reflect our commitment to restoring function and quality of life in even the most challenging cases.

Each procedure is different. Depending on the type of surgery you need, we may perform it under sedation or general anesthesia. Many eye surgeries are outpatient procedures so you can go home the same day. However, some surgeries require overnight stays in the hospital.

1. Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising around the surgical area are common and usually peak within the first few days. These symptoms typically improve within 1–2 weeks.
   
   
2. Mild Discomfort or Tightness: You may feel mild soreness, tightness, or a pulling sensation around the eyes or incision sites. Most patients manage discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers.
   
   
3. Tearing or Dryness: Temporary tearing or dryness can occur after surgery. Your surgeon may recommend lubricating drops or ointment to keep your eyes comfortable.
   
   
4. Wound Care: You will be prescribed antibiotic ointment to apply gently to the incision sites, usually 2–3 times a day. This helps prevent infection and promotes healing. Most surgeries do not require eye patching; however, if a clear plastic eye shield is provided, you should wear it while sleeping or napping for the first few nights to protect the surgical area from accidental rubbing.
   
   
5. Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting, bending over, or strenuous activities for about 1–2 weeks to reduce the risk of bleeding or swelling. Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation.
   
   
6. Head Elevation: Keep your head elevated while resting or sleeping by using extra pillows or a wedge. This helps reduce swelling more quickly.
   
   
7. Vision Changes: Mild blurred or double vision may occur temporarily due to swelling or ointment use. This usually improves within a few days.
   
   
8. Suture Care: If your procedure involves sutures, they may be dissolvable or removed at your follow-up visit. Avoid rubbing or putting pressure on the incision area.
   
   
9. Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up visits so your surgeon can monitor healing and ensure the best outcome. Suture removal or adjustments may be made during these visits.
   
   
10. Gradual Results: You may notice improvement within the first few weeks, but final results can take several months as swelling resolves and tissues settle.