Enucleation and evisceration are delicate procedures performed at Lunata Eyelid and Cosmetic Surgery, involving the removal of a damaged or diseased eye to treat conditions such as severe trauma, cancer, or untreatable pain. Our board-certified oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgeon ensures precise care for the orbital socket, promoting swift healing and optimal results that honor your natural anatomy.
When you have severe trauma, cancer, or untreatable pain…
Enucleation and evisceration are surgical procedures that involve the removal of an eye due to conditions such as severe trauma, cancer, or untreatable pain. The procedures aim to alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications. Orbital socket care involves the post-surgical management of the eye socket to ensure proper healing and functionality. This includes fitting an ocular prosthesis, monitoring for infections, and addressing any changes in the surrounding tissue. Proper care is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of the orbital area following enucleation.
Benefits of enucleation, evisceration, and orbital socket care
- Relief from severe pain or discomfort
- Prevention of further complications or disease spread
- Improved quality of life and daily functioning
- Enhanced appearance with a well-fitted ocular prosthesis
- Reduction of infection risks in a diseased or damaged eye
- Promotion of swift and effective healing
- Maintenance of the orbital socket’s structural integrity
The steps involved in your enucleation and orbital socket care
During enucleation, Dr. Eliasieh will carefully remove the affected eye while preserving the surrounding structures. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Eliasieh makes an incision to access the eye, detaches it from the ocular muscles and optic nerve, and then removes it from the socket. A spherical implant is often placed in the socket to maintain its shape and support future prosthesis fitting. The incision is then closed, and a pressure dressing is applied to minimize swelling and bleeding.
During evisceration, Dr. Eliasieh will carefully remove parts of the eye, and leave the white shell of the eye (sclera) and extraocular muscles intact. A spherical implant is placed in the socket similarly to maintain shape and support future prosthesis fitting.
After the procedure, you will receive detailed instructions for post-operative care. Dr. Eliasieh will monitor your healing process through follow-up appointments, ensuring that the socket heals properly and that there are no signs of infection or complications. Once healed, you will be fitted for an ocular prosthesis to restore the appearance of your eye. Ongoing care includes regular check-ups to ensure the prosthesis fits well and the socket remains healthy.
When will I see the final results?
You can expect to see the final results of your enucleation/evisceration and orbital socket care within a few months. Initially, there will be swelling and healing, which may gradually diminish over a few weeks. Dr. Eliasieh will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. Once your socket has healed, typically within 6-8 weeks, you will be fitted for an ocular prosthesis. The final outcome, including the appearance and functionality of your prosthesis, will be fully realized once the healing process is complete.
Enucleation, evisceration, and orbital socket care aftercare guidelines
- Follow all post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Eliasieh
- Take prescribed medications to manage pain and prevent infection
- Keep the surgical site clean and dry
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for monitoring
- Report any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge
- Do not touch or rub the surgical area
- Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling, as advised
- Wear the pressure dressing as instructed
- Follow guidelines for ocular prosthesis care and maintenance
- Maintain regular check-ups to ensure proper fit and socket health
- Contact Dr. Eliasieh immediately if you experience severe pain or changes in vision
Schedule a consultation
Lunata Eyelid and Cosmetic Surgery provides personalized care with a gentle touch. Our board-certified oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Eliasieh, specializes in enucleation and orbital socket care, ensuring precise, compassionate treatment tailored to your needs. Schedule a consultation at our Berkeley clinic to discover how enucleation and orbital socket care can help you live a long and quality life.
