What is Oculofacial Plastic Surgery?
Oculofacial plastic surgery is a unique subspecialty that involves both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery around the eyes, eyelids, orbits, and face. Oculoplastic surgery combines ophthalmology, facial plastic surgery, dermatology, and cosmetic medicine to address the tissues of the eyelids, area around the eye (like the brows), deep orbit, and tear drainage system.
Sometimes patients have trauma or skin cancer that require extensive reconstruction. Other patients want to rejuvenate their appearance with cosmetic procedures such as laser resurfacing, cosmetic injections, or a brow lift. Either way, the fundamental commitment to ensure protection of eye health is what separates oculofacial plastic surgeons from other providers.
Common procedures performed by oculofacial plastic surgeons involve:
Eyelid Surgery – Surgical procedures like a blepharoplasty or eyelid lift can improve vision and appearance. Reconstructive surgery of the eyelids can repair traumatic injuries or rid skin cancer.
Brow Lift and Forehead Lift – An upper face lift addressing droopy brows can increase peripheral vision and make patients look younger and happier
Orbital Surgery – The eye is a complex organ, and the tissues surrounding the eye, within the orbit, can only be managed by a highly skilled expert. Orbital tumors, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, and blow-out fractures involve the eye socket and delicate orbital tissues.
Orbital Surgery – The eye is a complex organ, and the tissues surrounding the eye, within the orbit, can only be managed by a highly skilled expert. Orbital tumors, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, and blow-out fractures involve the eye socket and delicate orbital tissues.
Nasolacrimal Surgery – Like a clogged pipe, a problem with the tear drainage system can backflow and cause very annoying tearing issues.
Facial procedures – Biostimulators (Sculptra), dermal fillers, laser skin resurfacing of the face, and even facelifts are within the repertoire of an oculofacial plastic surgeon.
What does it take to become an Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon?
The road to become an oculofacial plastic surgeon requires years of commitment, experience, and expertise. Dr. Murdock then took her career to the highest level and became certified with the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The ASOPRS Oculofacial Society is the most elite academic society that requires an unwavering commitment to education, scientific research, and patient care. Dr. Murdock has completed:
College: 4 years achieving a bachelor of science degree with minor in art history
Research Fellowship: 1 year of mastering the rules and regulations of clinical research
Medical School: 4 years of rigorous medical education
Ophthalmology Surgical Residency: 4 years of specialized microsurgery training
Oculofacial Plastic Surgery Fellowship: 2 years of an ASOPRS Oculofacial Society certified training program to focus specialized surgical skills
Certification: Board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and passing the ASOPRS written and oral board exams
Altogether, Dr. Murdock, as an oculofacial plastic surgeon, has dedicated her career to providing exceptional patient care, mastering fine surgical techniques, and advancing medicine and education. She enjoys the rare opportunity to blend science and art together and bring her genuine enthusiasm to all aspects of her practice.
