Reconstructive surgery of the eyelids and upper face can improve the look and function of your eyes, eyelids, and face. Injuries, congenital (present at birth) defects, aging changes, and tumors can cause pain, permanent eye damage, loss of vision, and cosmetic disfigurement.

Our experienced surgeons offer a range of reconstructive surgery options for the facial structures, including:

• Correcting eyelid position problems, such as the eyelids turning inward or turning outward
• Inserting implants to raise drooping lower eyelids due to aging changes or thyroid eye disease
• Permanently removing eyelashes that rub on and irritate the eyes
• Reconstructing eye sockets in which the eye has been removed and you are not able to comfortably wear a prosthetic eye due to scarring changes
• Reconstructing eyelids after traumatic injuries or skin cancer excisions
• Removing benign (harmless) and malignant (cancerous) growths on the skin of the face and eyelids

What to Expect

Details vary greatly, depending on the specific surgery you receive. You may be under local anesthesia, local anesthesia with intravenous (by vein) sedation, or general (fully asleep) anesthesia for your procedure.

In most surgeries, you will be able to return home the day of surgery. Your ophthalmologist and team will answer all your questions and provide detailed instructions about the procedure, if or how long you will need to stay in the hospital, and how long your recovery period will be.

Who is a Candidate?

If you have any of the following conditions, reconstructive surgery may help improve the appearance and function of your eyes:

• Abnormally growing or misdirected eyelashes that touch the eyes
• Blepharospasm or hemifacial spasm (excessive involuntary blinking of the eyes)
• Brow ptosis (drooping eyebrows)
• Ptosis (drooping upper eyelids)
• Dermatochalasis (sagging and excess eyelid fat and skin)
• Eyelid cancer
• Fractures and lacerations in or around the eyes
• Graves’ disease/thyroid eye disease
• Orbital tumors (tumors in the tissues behind the eyes)
• Tear duct blockage resulting in excessive tearing
• Trauma requiring removal of the eye

Why Choose Bascom Palmer Eye Institute?

Ranked #1 by U.S. News & World Report. Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, part of the University of Miami Health System, is the top-rated facility in the country for the treatment of diseases and disorders of the eye, according to U.S. News & World Report. When you choose us for your eye care, you will receive the best care in the nation in a compassionate setting.

Full Spectrum Care for Multiple Eye Conditions. Eye injuries, disorders and diseases often have underlying medical conditions. Your multidisciplinary eye care team works together to preserve your vision and improve your appearance.