What Is Oculoplastic Surgery?
Oculoplastic surgery, also known as ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery, is a specialized field of medicine that combines ophthalmology (eye care) with plastic and reconstructive surgery techniques. An oculoplastic surgeon focuses on the structures surrounding the eyes, including the eyelids, tear ducts, eye socket (orbit), eyebrows, and upper face.
An oculoplastic surgeon is first trained as an ophthalmologist and then completes additional fellowship training in plastic and reconstructive procedures involving the delicate tissues around the eyes. This specialized expertise allows Dr. Lisa Bunin to address both functional and cosmetic concerns while protecting the health and vision of the eyes.
What Does an Oculoplastic Surgeon Do?
An oculoplastic surgeon is first trained as an ophthalmologist and then completes additional fellowship training in plastic and reconstructive procedures involving the delicate tissues around the eyes. This specialized expertise allows Dr. Lisa Bunin to address both functional and cosmetic concerns while protecting the health and vision of the eyes.
The Importance of Specialized Eye Care
Oculoplastic surgery combines the precision of ophthalmology with the artistry of facial plastic surgery. Whether treating a medical condition, repairing an injury, or enhancing appearance, oculoplastic surgeons focus on achieving results that protect eye function while improving comfort and confidence.
If you are experiencing eyelid, tear duct, or orbital concerns, consultation with an oculoplastic surgeon, like Lisa Bunin, M.D. can provide specialized treatment options tailored to your individual needs.
Lisa Bunin, M.D. appears as part of an esteemed panel of top surgeons in the country, at this year’s premier multi-specialty Global Aesthetics conference. Dr. Bunin spoke on Oculoplastic surgery as it is one of her specialized procedures at her practice in Allentown, PA.
The Global Aesthetics Conference was created to bring together key opinion leaders from the four core aesthetic specialties – Facial Plastic Surgery, Dermatology, Plastic Surgery, and Oculoplastic Surgery– in a collegial and apolitical environment. It is the only true Multispecialty event in the world that is not organized under the banner of a large corporate entity.
What Conditions Does an Oculoplastic Surgeon Treat?
Oculoplastic surgeons diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions affecting the eyelids, eye socket, tear drainage system, and facial structures around the eyes.
Eyelid Disorders
Common eyelid conditions include:
- Droopy eyelids (ptosis)
- Excess eyelid skin (dermatochalasis)
- Eyelid malposition (entropion and ectropion)
- Eyelid tumors and skin cancers
- Chalazion and recurrent styes
- Eyelid trauma and injuries
- Facial nerve paralysis affecting eyelid function
These conditions can cause irritation, dry eyes, tearing, and even obstruct vision.
Tear Duct Problems
Patients experiencing excessive tearing may have a blocked tear drainage system. Oculoplastic surgeons can evaluate and treat:
- Blocked tear ducts
- Chronic tearing (epiphora)
- Tear duct infections
- Congenital tear duct obstruction in children
Procedures such as dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) can restore normal tear drainage and improve comfort.
Orbital Disorders
The orbit contains the eye, muscles, nerves, and surrounding tissues. Oculoplastic surgeons treat conditions such as:
- Thyroid eye disease
- Orbital tumors
- Eye socket fractures
- Orbital infections
- Protruding eyes (proptosis)
- Congenital orbital abnormalities
These conditions often require advanced imaging, medical management, and delicate surgical intervention.
Cosmetic Oculoplastic Procedures
In addition to reconstructive surgery, Dr. Lisa Bunin performs cosmetic procedures designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes and face.
Popular cosmetic treatments include:
- Upper and lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
- Brow lifts
- Botox® injections
- Dermal fillers
- Laser skin resurfacing
- Eyelid rejuvenation procedures
These treatments can help patients achieve a more refreshed, youthful appearance while maintaining natural facial expressions.

