Last updated on
07 November 2025
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Oculoplastic surgery is a subspecialty branch of ophthalmology that focuses on the surgical procedures for the eyelids, tear ducts, eye sockets or orbits, and adjacent facial regions.
The primary aim of an oculoplastic surgeon is to address functional issues that affect vision or eye health.
While oculoplastic procedures in Singapore may sometimes lead to a patient’s appearance, cosmetic results are always secondary or even incidental. The main goal remains restoring eye function and health.
Oculoplastic surgery is a procedure performed by an ophthalmologist who has undergone training for plastic and reconstructive techniques around the eye.
Examples of conditions treated by oculoplastic surgeons include drooping eyelids (ptosis) and dermatochalasis (excess eyelid skin). Block tear ducts and eyelid tumours are other examples.
Interventions through oculoplastic procedures are designed to restore function or impaired vision, while also aiming to prevent complications that may arise from these conditions.
This distinguishes them from cosmetic enhancement procedures, where the main aim is simply to achieve a change in appearance, not in function or health.
For example, ptosis surgery performed to correct a drooping eyelid that impairs vision falls under oculoplastic surgery. Double eyelid surgery performed for aesthetic purposes is considered a cosmetic procedure.
The likelihood of needing an oculoplastic surgery increases with age.
Over time, the eyelid muscles weaken and the skin loses its elasticity. This can lead to various issues that may require oculoplastic intervention.
People who have thyroid eye disease, diabetes, or a history of ocular trauma and infection may be at higher risk. These conditions can affect the eyelid muscles and skin, causing them to weaken or age faster.
Early evaluation can help detect conditions that can be treated with oculoplastic surgery. Additionally, early intervention can prevent them from progressing to more serious problems.
Certain signs may indicate the need to consult your eye specialist for potential oculoplastic treatment. Below are some of the most common:
With early assessment, you can get a timely diagnosis from your eye doctor. From there, you may receive treatment to prevent further vision loss or obstruction.
There are oculoplastic surgeries that can help with various issues.
ERS Suntec City offers a comprehensive range of oculoplastic procedures of this type. They aim to restore eye and eyelid function as well as comfort.
These procedures are performed by oculoplastic surgeons following clinical guidelines. Consultations involve a thorough evaluation of each patient’s symptoms, condition, medical history, and other relevant factors to determine suitability for treatment.
Oculoplastic surgery costs will vary according to the procedure’s complexity and the individual case's requirements. Components contributing to cost include these:
Some procedures may be claimable under medical insurance or MediShield Life. It may depend on your policy and whether the procedure is truly oculoplastic (vs cosmetic).
At ERS Suntec City, we encourage our patients to discuss claim eligibility with our team. It's to ensure our specialists and staff can offer transparent and personalised guidance.
Recovery varies for individuals after oculoplastic surgery.
Most patients experience mild swelling or bruising for about two weeks after the procedure. Full recovery may take a few months.
Some possible side effects are the following (with most being temporary):
Warning signs that should prompt a call or visit to the doctor are the following:
Your doctor or treatment team should provide detailed post-operative care instructions. ERS Suntec City provides comprehensive post-operative instructions accompanied by scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.
Oculoplastic surgery plays a vital role in restoring impaired eyelid function and protecting your eye health. If you suspect you may have a condition that requires specialist attention, seeking an early consultation can facilitate prompt diagnosis and timely treatment.
To that end, consider scheduling an appointment with us at ERS Suntec City. Our doctors can provide professional evaluation and expert guidance tailored to your situation.
