An Oculoplastic surgeon is an Ophthalmologist (eye specialist) who is an expert in surgery of the “eyelids”.  The experience required to gain this title requires thousands of eyelid operations during Fellowship training.  When patients trust their eyelid surgery to an Oculoplastic surgeon, they can be assured that they are in the safe and steady hands of an expert that appreciates eyelid aesthetics as well as the complexity of the eyelid, the eye and its role in protecting the most precious of senses, vision.

Do not be mislead into believing that Eye lid surgery is limited to the removal of excess upper eye lid skin (Blepharoplasty) or making older eyes appear young.  That’s only part of the story.  Eyelid surgery is more complex and treats a broad range of conditions aimed at counteracting the effects of the sun, aging, gravity, infection, scarring, inflammation, skin cancers and trauma.  In addressing these conditions, the function of eyelid must be maintained to protect the eye, but the results also need to look good.

See Gallery page for Before and After Pictures performed by Dr Tai Smith.

Common surgical procedures include:

1. Disorders of eyelid position: blepharoptosis, ectropion, entropion, eyelid retraction, eyebrow lifts.
2. Blepharoplasty: upper eyelid skin reduction and lower eyelid removal of “bags”, cosmetic and medical (Medicare-eligible).  Using CO2 Laser to minimise bruising, swelling and shorten recovery time.
3. Reconstructive surgery: restoration of eyelid function and appearance after tumour excision or trauma.
4. Removal of unwanted eyelid lumps, cysts, chalazion, moles, xanthelasma and eyelashes.
5. Protection of the underlying eye: lower lid elevation, tarsorrhaphy and gold weight insertion.
6. Revisional oculoplastic surgery: improving symmetry or correcting outcomes of previous surgery; restoring confidence in disappointed patients.

Eyelid surgery is commonly performed as a day procedure under local anaesthetic, sometimes with sedation. Apart from children rarely does eyelid surgery require a general anaesthetic. Most oculoplastic procedures attract a Medicare rebate with a valid referral from your doctor or optometrist. Not all procedures need a hospital admission. Most procedures can be done in a dedicated “in rooms” procedure room for uninsured patients with significant cost savings.

Minor procedures can be done on the same day as the initial consultation eg., chalazion and biopsy procedures.

Dr Smith regularly sees paediatric patients with oculoplastic problems including congenital tear duct obstructions and chalazia (styes).