Eyelid and Lacrimal Duct Surgery
Eyelid and lacrimal duct surgery is one of our key areas of expertise.
With a subspecialisation in oculoplastic surgery, we are able to perform most assessments directly in our practice. Should surgery be necessary, it is carried out either in our modern in-practice operating room or at the Augenzentrum Zug in Baar.
From Examination to Surgery to Aftercare
During your consultation, we conduct a thorough examination and discuss any potential surgical procedures in detail. This includes explaining all advantages, disadvantages, risks, and the exact course of treatment. Most surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis under local anaesthesia. In many cases, sedation is provided by an anaesthesiologist to ensure the procedure us as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled at one week and six weeks after surgery, and are conducted in our practice.
Dermatochalasis (Hooded Eyelid)
Dermatochalasis is the presence of excess skin on the upper eyelid, which can cause cosmetic concerns or functional problems. Symptoms may include a feeling of pressure or heaviness on the eyelid, as well as restricted field of vision. In some cases, tears may overflow outside the skin fold. Compensatory raising of the eyebrow to improve vision can lead to headaches in the forehead and the formation of excessive wrinkles. Additionally, fatty tissue from the eye socket may sometimes protrude beneath the skin.
Frequently asked questions
- Will health insurance cover the procedure?
This procedure is not covered as a mandatory service by health insurance. Therefore, a coverage request must be submitted, which includes sending photos of the eye area and undergoing a visual field test. Alternatively, the procedure can be performed as a self-pay service.
- How does the operation work?
The surgery is performed under local anaesthesia, often combined with sedation for your comfort. While you lie down with your eyes closed, the excess skin is carefully marked. The surgeon then removes the excess skin, refines the eyelid shape, and closes the wound with non-absorbable sutures. After the procedure, your eyes remain uncovered, no dressing is needed.
- What is the recovery like?
Swelling and bruising are common after the procedure. Pain levels vary but are usually mild. Most of the swelling subsides after about one week, at which point the sutures can be removed. It is important to regularly cool the wound during the first few days to reduce discomfort. For approximately ten days, you should avoid sports, heavy lifting, and swimming pools to ensure proper healing. After two to three weeks, the procedure is barely noticeable. Your ability to work will only be temporarily affected during the recovery period.
- Is the surgery risky?
Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks involved, but complications from upper eyelid surgery are rare. We will gladly explain all details and address any concerns during your consultation.
- Conclusion
Whether performed for functional or cosmetic reasons, upper eyelid surgery can greatly enhance your quality of life with minimal risk and effort.
Other Surgical Treatments
Ptosis (Drooping Eyelid)
Ptosis refers to a condition where the upper eyelid droops lower than normal. While it may appear similar to dermatochalasis, the two are distinct conditions, though they often occur together. Treatment involves making a small incision in the natural crease of the eyelid to access and shorten the muscle responsible for lifting the lid. This outpatient procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia.
Ectropion
Ectropion occurs when the lower eyelid turns outward, causing redness, irritation, and excessive tearing due to impaired tear drainage. Correction involves shortening and tightening the eyelid at the outer corner. In some cases, a small skin graft may be required. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia in our modern outpatient setting.
Entropion
Entropion is a condition where the lower eyelid turns inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye. This can lead to significant irritation and discomfort. Surgical correction involves tightening and repositioning the eyelid, usually by shortening it at the outer corner. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia on an outpatient basis.
Tumours
Various tumours can form along the eyelid margin or surrounding skin. Benign or small tumours can usually be removed in our practice under local anaesthesia. If a malignant tumour is suspected, the procedure is performed in Baar with immediate frozen-section analysis to ensure complete removal. This is also done under local anaesthesia.
Chalazion (Stye / Meibomian Cyst)
If a stye becomes chronic, surgical removal may be necessary. This procedure is performed in our modern practice under local anaesthesia. The lesion is opened either from the inside or outside, and the inflammatory material is gently removed. The procedure takes less than 15 minutes, and only a light dressing is needed for approximately 30 minutes afterward.
Lacrimal Duct Treatments
Watery eyes can have various causes. If narrowing occurs before the tear sac, it can be treated by gently probing the duct and placing a silicone tube. This is performed under local anaesthesia, usually with light sedation. If the narrowing or blockage is located at the junction between the tear sac and the nose, surgical correction is required. This procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, typically during a short hospital stay.
Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Treatments
At our state-of-the-art practice in Goldau, we offer treatments to reduce unwanted wrinkles around the eyes, such as frown lines and crow’s feet, using muscle relaxants like (Azzalure®).