Can Eye Socket Fracture Surgery Fix Eyeball Sunken Appearance?

Orbital bone fracture

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if there is a way to treat an eye socket fracture that has resulted in enophthalmos after surgery.
My mother had the surgery several years ago, and I am wondering if it is possible to restore her eye to normal, or if you could recommend a specialist for this condition.
Thank you for addressing my concerns.

Mantou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/18

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery

1.
Orbital fractures are classified into several types, depending on whether they are superior, inferior, medial, or lateral, and whether they are simple or complex.
Each type has different treatments and prognoses, so they cannot be generalized.
2.
Old fractures tend to have a poorer prognosis.
3.
You can consult the plastic surgery departments at major hospitals, as most of them offer consultations.

Reply Date: 2018/04/18

More Info

When it comes to the management of an eye socket fracture (orbital fracture) that has resulted in a sunken appearance of the eyeball (enophthalmos), there are several considerations to keep in mind. The surgical intervention for orbital fractures aims to restore the normal anatomy of the orbit, which can help improve both cosmetic appearance and functional aspects of vision.

1. Surgical Options: If your mother underwent surgery for an orbital fracture but still experiences a sunken eyeball, it is important to consult with an ophthalmic surgeon, particularly one who specializes in orbital surgery. There are various surgical techniques available, such as the use of implants or grafts to restore the volume of the orbit and reposition the eyeball. These procedures can help correct enophthalmos and improve the aesthetic appearance of the eye.

2. Timing of Surgery: The timing of any corrective surgery is crucial. If the initial surgery was performed a long time ago and the enophthalmos persists, it may still be possible to perform additional surgery. However, the success of such procedures can depend on the extent of the initial injury, the healing process, and any changes that may have occurred in the surrounding tissues over time.

3. Consultation with Specialists: It is advisable to seek a second opinion from a specialist in oculoplastic surgery or a facial plastic surgeon with experience in orbital reconstruction. They can evaluate your mother’s specific condition, review any imaging studies (like CT scans), and discuss potential surgical options tailored to her needs.

4. Post-Surgical Considerations: After any corrective surgery, there may be a recovery period during which swelling and bruising can occur. The final results may take some time to become apparent as the tissues heal. It is also important to monitor for any complications that could arise post-surgery, such as infection or changes in vision.

5. Non-Surgical Options: In some cases, if surgery is not an option or if the patient prefers to avoid further surgical interventions, there are non-surgical options such as fillers or other cosmetic procedures that can temporarily improve the appearance of enophthalmos. However, these are not permanent solutions and should be discussed with a qualified cosmetic specialist.

6. Psychological Support: The psychological impact of facial injuries, including those affecting the eyes, can be significant. It may be beneficial for your mother to seek support from counseling services or support groups that focus on recovery from facial trauma. This can help her cope with any emotional distress related to her appearance and vision.

In summary, while surgery can potentially correct a sunken appearance of the eyeball resulting from an orbital fracture, it is essential to consult with a qualified specialist who can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. Each case is unique, and a tailored approach will yield the best outcomes.

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