Kremer Laser Eye Center - Surgical Procedures

Richard Roth, M.D. is a Kremer Eye Institute surgeon, specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical correction of many ophthalmic disorders. His dual training in ophthalmic plastic surgery and ophthalmology gives him the ability to perform a variety of delicate procedures around the eyes, while taking advantage of opportunities to cosmetically enhance a patient's appearance.

Dr. Roth provides the following services and care at Kremer's Philadelphia-suburb office in King of Prussia, PA:
. Plastic Surgery of and around the eyes
. Ptosis
. Entropion & Ectropion
. Eyelid Tumors
. Tear Duct Problems
. Reconstructive Surgery
. Blepharoplasty
. Botox injections

To find out if a procedure is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Roth by calling 1-800-694-EYES (3937).

Adult Ptosis
The most common cause of ptosis in adults is the separation of the levator muscle tendon from the eyelid. This process can occur due to aging, injury or after cataract surgery or other eye surgeries. Dr. Roth may use blood tests, X-rays, or other tests to determine the best course of treatment. If treatment is necessary, it is usually surgical. There is a slight risk of infection or reduced vision, but those risks are low and very infrequent. We will work with you to determine the best and safest course of treatment for your individual needs.

Entropion
Entropion occurs when the upper or lower eyelid turns inward, causing the skin and eyelashes to rub against the eye. The cornea (the clear surface of the eye) is extremely sensitive to the misdirected lashes, resulting in redness, irritation, and decreased vision. Surgery involves restoring the eyelid to its normal position, and thereby, turning the eyelashes out and away from the eye.

Ectropion
Ectropion occurs when the lower eyelid sags and turns out, resulting in exposure of the eye. Tearing, scarring of the cornea, and decreased vision may result. Ectropion may be the result of aging, injury, eyelid growths, or facial paralysis. Surgical repair involves repositioning the eyelid against the eye by tightening the supporting lid.

Eyelid Tumors
Growths on the eyelids and face may be benign (cysts, nevi) or malignant (skin cancers). Growths that may be skin cancers are identified, and then, removed completely with surgery. Reconstruction of the eyelid is done with plastic surgical techniques, which may involve skin flaps and skin grafts in some patients.

Tear Duct Problems
Blockage of the tear ducts may occur at birth, or as a result of injury or disease. The symptoms include chronic tearing, crusting, and discharge. The tear sac may become acutely infected due to blockage of the tear duct system. The type of surgical repair depends on the age of the patient and location of the obstruction. One highly successful procedure involves the construction of a new "bypass" route connecting the upper tear ducts to the nose for drainage of tears.

Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructive surgery is done to restore cosmesis and function following injuries, burns, or birth defects. The eyelid is reconstructed to open and close properly and to protect the eye. Fractures of the orbital bones are internally repaired to restore the alignment of the facial bones and position of the eye within the orbit.

Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty is the reconstruction of the eyelids. Every blink, repeated billions of times in a lifetime, produces a tiny stretch of the skin and deeper tissues of the eyelids. Heredity and sun damage add to these changes, making us appear older. Excessive skin on the upper eyelids, drooping eyebrows and bags above and beneath the eyes can cause a tired, sad, or even angry expression. Sometimes sagging eyelids can interfere with vision.

Reconstructive blepharoplasty can be performed to correct these conditions when they also affect the eyes' function - vision. Many patients have recently become interested in eyelid and eyebrow surgery that can improve their appearance. The elective procedure to remove excess skin folds and fat pockets is referred to as "anesthetic blepharoplasty," and is performed under local anesthetic in most cases. These surgical results can enhance the patient's sense of well-being and relieve eye fatigue caused by excess skin.

Holding a consultation with Dr. Roth is the first step in knowing if this type of surgery is right for you. Call 800-694-EYES to schedule an appointment with Dr. Roth.