What is an Oculoplastic Surgeon?

What is an Oculoplastic Surgeon?

Eyelid, lacrimal and orbital surgery is a highly specialised area within Ophthalmology itself.  In Australia, functional and cosmetic eyelid surgery is generally performed by Ophthalmologists who have specific training in examining the eye, diagnosing pre-existing Ophthalmic conditions and treating post-operative eye issues. This rigorous and highly specialised extra training is often a fellowship which lasts for 1-2 years and is solely dedicated to teaching and learning these types of surgical procedures only. 

How do Oculoplastic Surgeons differ from Plastic Surgeons?

Plastic surgeons usually have some training in general eyelid surgery as part of their general training, but not to the level of detail fellowship trained ophthalmic plastic surgeons possess. The table below summarises the key differences in relation to patients undergoing oculoplastic (Eyelid, Lacrimal and Orbital) surgery.