Facial skin aging and multiple medical conditions can affect a patient’s vision and other practical abilities, creating the need for corrective functional procedures in Detroit. At Michigan Oculofacial Specialists, board-certified ophthalmologists Dr. Lawrence Handler and Dr. Zachary Pearce are highly qualified and experienced in this delicate science.

Common Functional Conditions and Their Treatments

Oculofacial procedures can have multiple cosmetic benefits, but eye and upper face functionality issues can significantly impact a person’s daily life. Diagnosis will be necessary for every patient, but here is a brief description of some of the most common functional conditions and their respective treatment options:

Congenital Disorders

Eye conditions caused by genetics or childbirth itself can include droopy, deformed, or torn eyelids and orbital disorders. Corrective surgery is often the best course of action.

Droopy Upper Eyelids

Known as ptosis, the condition of a drooping upper eyelid can be caused by genetics. However, many patients will be born with fully functional upper eyelids, only for them to eventually sag over time as the skin loses its elasticity from the aging process.

While frequently an aesthetic concern, patients might also struggle with peripheral vision loss. The upper blepharoplasty surgical procedure is used to remove this excess skin, improving the field of vision.

Eyelid and Facial Spasms

Eyelid spasms can happen occasionally but usually go away on their own. During the blepharospasm condition, abnormal spasms can lead to eye irritation and loss of consistently clear vision due to the increased blink rate. For some patients, the spasms are experienced in both eyes or even the side of the face. Botox® is typically used to temporarily inhibit these muscles’ ability to contract, causing the spasms to diminish.

Eyelid Lesions

Lesions are lumps and bumps found on or around the eyelids, eyebrows, or elsewhere on the face. Your doctor may need to perform an examination and order testing to determine if the lesion is cancerous. In most cases, it only needs to be observed or can be quickly removed without general anesthesia or sutures.

Eyelid Malpositions

As the name suggests, an eyelid malposition is when an eyelid is out of its standard positioning, either turned out (ectropion) or turned in (entropion). It is usually treated with reconstructive surgery.

Ingrown Eyelashes

A condition known as trichiasis, an ingrown eyelash occurs either due to an eyelid malposition or because the lash is growing in the wrong direction. Treating the malposition should correct this concern. Alternatively, the ingrown eyelash itself is removed.

Orbital Tumors

An abnormality in the bony eye socket is called an orbital tumor (which is not necessarily cancerous). If the tumor is causing pain, vision problems, or is malignant, it could be removed or treated with radiation, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. Treatment for orbital tumors is very patient-specific and needs to be discussed with your doctor.

Thyroid-Related Eye Problems

Patients with thyroid conditions can sometimes experience eyelid swelling and eye bulging. Once the thyroid condition itself is under medical treatment, your doctor may recommend medication or surgery to treat the eye problem.

Tearing Problems

Excess tearing in one or both eyes could indicate an issue with the eyelids or the tear duct drainage system. Treatments include clearing a tear duct blockage, eyelid malposition correction, or medication.

Your Consultation

For proper diagnosis, you’ll need to come in for a consultation with Dr. Handler or Dr. Pearce. This will involve an examination of your symptoms and medical history, as well as an honest conversation where you can ask any questions you may have. If needed, additional testing or a biopsy may be ordered. Your provider can then develop a treatment plan tailored to your functional and aesthetic needs.

Functional Surgery Process

Pre-Operative Preparation

Before surgery, we provide detailed instructions to ensure you are fully prepared. This includes comprehensive medical evaluations to determine your overall health and suitability for surgery. We also provide guidelines on medications to take or avoid and specific instructions on fasting, hygiene, and other necessary preparations.

Surgical Procedure

At our Detroit facility, our ophthalmologists perform functional oculofacial procedures with precision and care. The surgical process begins with administering anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free. Carefully made incisions in strategic locations allow access to the affected areas while minimizing visible scarring.

Using advanced techniques, our ophthalmologists correct the specific issue, whether it involves repositioning tissues, removing obstructions, or repairing structures. Throughout the surgery, your vital signs are closely monitored to ensure your safety. Once the necessary corrections are made, the incisions are meticulously closed to promote optimal healing and minimal scarring.

Cost of Functional Procedures

The cost of functional oculofacial procedures varies based on the specific surgery and individual patient needs. During your consultation, we provide a detailed estimate, including surgical fees, anesthesia, and facility costs. Our office is committed to offering affordable options and assisting with insurance claims where applicable.

Contact the Michigan Oculofacial Specialists

Our functional procedures in Detroit have helped countless patients get back to enjoying their daily lives. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology Michigan Society of Eye Physicians & Surgeons American Medical Association American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery ASOPRS Michigan State Medical Society