Frequently Asked Questions

Will eyelid surgery change how I look?

This is one of the most important questions to explore before proceeding with any surgery.

It's essential that your expectations — and mine — align with what surgery can realistically achieve. To guide my approach, I work from three core principles:

Safety
Realism
Achievable outcomes

Most eyelid procedures, especially aesthetic ones, aim to make subtle enhancements to the area around the eyes. The goal is always a natural look — one that enhances rather than alters. When patients say they look “refreshed” or “well-rested,” that’s the best compliment.

For functional procedures — such as drooping lids, orbital changes, or tear drainage issues — the priority is restoring function while maintaining or improving symmetry.

We’ll always discuss expected outcomes in detail so you feel informed and confident moving forward.

What is the recovery time?

It depends on the procedure and your lifestyle. Here's a general guide:

Minor procedures (e.g. lesion removal, biopsy)

Most patients return to work the next day if the wound is protected.
Advice is tailored to your role and activity level.

Functional eyelid surgery (e.g. ptosis repair, ectropion/entropion correction)

A light dressing is worn for approximately 24 hours.
Vision is usually unaffected, though swelling and bruising may require a few days off depending on your profession.

More involved procedures (e.g. DCR, orbital surgery)

These often involve general anaesthetic. Estimated recovery times:

DCR (tear duct bypass): Around 1 week off
Upper lid blepharoplasty: Around 1 week off
Lower lid blepharoplasty: Closer to 2 weeks off

Every patient heals differently — I’ll provide individual guidance for your recovery plan.

Do you perform cataract surgery?

Yes — I continue to perform cataract surgery alongside my oculoplastic practice.

I’m a fully trained ophthalmologist, with comprehensive experience in medical and surgical eye care including cataract, glaucoma, retinal, and emergency cases.

Cataract Surgery Experience & Expertise

1. Comprehensive Training

Trained via the Irish National Training Programme — known for its exceptional surgical standards.
Exposure to a wide range of routine and complex cataract cases.

2. Public Consultant Role

Perform cataract surgeries and train junior surgeons in the national programme.

3. High-Volume Cataract Surgery

Provide surgeries via the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) for long-wait patients.
Lead post-operative care at Blackrock Clinic.

4. Quality Assurance

Regular audits using the EUREQUO tool to benchmark outcomes internationally.

5. ESCRS Member

Active in the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, attending global conferences to stay at the forefront of innovation.

If you’re experiencing cataract symptoms — such as glare, blurred vision, or difficulty driving — I offer comprehensive assessment and advanced surgical care.

Will my insurance cover the procedure?

Coverage depends on whether the procedure is functional or aesthetic.

Covered (Functional Procedures)

Typically includes:

Droopy eyelids affecting vision
Eyelid malposition (e.g. ectropion/entropion)
Tear drainage issues

You’ll receive:

A procedure code
Supporting documentation for your insurer
Confirmation from the surgical centre

It's always advisable to contact your insurer directly to confirm coverage for your specific procedure and facility.

Not Covered (Aesthetic Procedures)

Cosmetic blepharoplasty (for non-vision-impairing concerns) is not covered.
If a drooping eyelid obstructs your vision, it may be reclassified as functional and potentially covered.

We’ll always clarify the distinction before proceeding.

Will I be asleep for the operation?

It depends on the procedure and your preferences.

Most oculoplastic surgeries are performed using local anaesthesia with optional sedation. The best option is chosen based on your comfort, medical background, and procedure type.

1. Oral Sedation

A tablet to help relax — you're awake and breathing normally.

2. Intravenous (IV) Sedation

A lightly sedated state, ideal for longer procedures or patients with higher anxiety.

3. General Anaesthetic

Reserved for:

Orbital surgery
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)
Lower lid or combined blepharoplasty
Patient preference for greater comfort during longer procedures

4. Anaesthesia for Children

All paediatric oculoplastic surgeries are performed under general anaesthetic for safety and comfort.

5. Ensuring Comfort & Building Trust

Patient comfort is a cornerstone of my practice. I always:

Explain each step in advance
Check in during the procedure
Stop immediately if any discomfort arises
Use calming techniques to reduce stress

Each anaesthetic plan is fully tailored to you, often in consultation with your GP or specialist team if needed.

What happens if I do nothing?

This depends entirely on the nature of your condition — but it’s an important question to ask.

1. Life-Threatening Conditions

Some procedures are urgent and necessary to prevent disease progression.
Examples include:

Eyelid or orbital cancers
Biopsy or excision of orbital tumours
Aggressive conditions that can metastasise or affect overall health

Delaying treatment in these cases can complicate outcomes or risk your health.

2. Sight-Threatening Conditions

Some surgeries are necessary to preserve vision.
Examples include:

Thyroid eye disease with optic nerve compression
Corneal exposure due to eyelid malposition
Orbital masses affecting optic structures

Delaying these may lead to irreversible vision loss.

3. Quality-of-Life Conditions

These are not always urgent, but delaying them can lead to:

Worsening symptoms (e.g. tearing, redness, discomfort)
Structural changes over time
Impact on confidence and daily function

For example, a mild ectropion may start as a cosmetic issue but eventually affect eye health and comfort.