Adult Oculoplastic Surgery in Sydney with Dr Hugo Lee

Conditions such as ptosis (drooping eyelids), ectropion (outward-turning eyelids), and entropion (inward-turning eyelids) can significantly affect vision, eye comfort, and the eye’s natural protective function.

Ptosis may require treatment when eyelid droop interferes with vision or peripheral vision. Ectropion can cause excessive tearing, dryness, and irritation due to poor contact between the eyelids and the eye surface. Entropion may cause the eyelid to rub against the cornea, leading to redness, a foreign-body sensation, and, in severe cases, corneal damage.

In some situations, changes in eyelid position may also be an early sign of eyelid skin cancer, where abnormal tissue growth alters normal eyelid anatomy. Early assessment is therefore important to protect both eye health and overall well-being.

Both benign and malignant eyelid lesions require careful and accurate assessment. When surgical removal is indicated, the priority is complete tumour excision while preserving normal eyelid function and achieving the best possible cosmetic outcome. Tumour clearance may be confirmed during surgery by a pathologist (for example, via frozen-section analysis) or through collaboration with a Mohs surgeon, depending on the lesion type and location.

Following tumour removal, meticulous eyelid reconstruction is performed to restore eyelid function and appearance. When complete anatomical restoration is not possible, protecting the eye and maintaining eyelid function are prioritised, followed by achieving the best possible eyelid symmetry.

Excess upper eyelid skin, known as dermatochalasis (sometimes called blepharochalasis), can create a heavy, tired appearance and may restrict vision. Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin to restore a more open visual field and a refreshed, natural look.

Achieving an optimal outcome requires careful surgical planning and precise tissue removal to maintain eyelid symmetry and a youthful appearance. This must be balanced against the risk of complications such as eyelid retraction or incomplete eyelid closure (lagophthalmos), which can occur if too much tissue is removed. We strive to prioritise both eye protection and long-term comfort while enhancing appearance.

Malformations, infections, inflammation, and tumours are common disease processes that can affect the eye socket (orbit). These conditions often require detailed assessment and targeted investigations to establish an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Because many orbital conditions occur deep within the eye socket and are not visible on routine examination, the diagnosis may not be immediately apparent.

We work closely with patients and collaborate with multidisciplinary specialist teams to develop comprehensive management plans. When required, these teams are embedded within major tertiary centres, including Sydney Eye Hospital and St Vincent’s Hospital, ensuring access to specialised imaging, pathology, and surgical expertise.

Conditions such as nasolacrimal duct obstruction can lead to constant tearing, eye irritation, or recurrent infections. In adults, a blocked tear duct often benefits from definitive surgical treatment. While eye drops, nasal sprays, or oral antibiotics may provide temporary relief, they usually do not resolve the underlying blockage or provide a permanent solution.

The most appropriate surgical approach depends on the location and cause of the obstruction. Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), the most commonly performed procedure for adult tear duct blockages, creates a new drainage pathway for tears. This surgery is frequently performed endoscopically through the nose, avoiding any external skin incision and leaving no visible scar.

Cosmetic procedures aim to refresh the eye area while preserving natural expression, facial balance, and most importantly, eye health. While surgical, laser, and medical treatments of the periocular region can achieve excellent aesthetic outcomes, the safety and function of the eyes remain our highest priority. 

Through careful, patient-centred discussions and methodical planning, we deliver clinically safe, effective, and natural-looking results in cosmetic eyelid rejuvenation. We take the time to understand your goals and to clearly discuss what can realistically be achieved, including the limitations of both surgical and non-surgical options, while always remaining within safe clinical boundaries.