Frequently Asked Questions
General answers to help you prepare for a consultation. Every case is different, so nothing here replaces a proper assessment with Mr Sultan.
Oculoplastic surgeons manage conditions of the eyelids, tear drainage system, eye socket (orbit) and the tissue surrounding the eyes. This spans drooping eyelids (ptosis), lids that turn in or out (entropion and ectropion), eyelid lumps and cysts, a persistently watery eye, thyroid eye disease, orbital tumours, and eyelid skin cancers. Many oculoplastic surgeons, including Mr Sultan, also perform cosmetic eyelid and brow procedures.
An oculoplastic surgeon is first and foremost an ophthalmologist - trained fully in general eye disease and surgery - who then completes further fellowship training focused entirely on the eyelids, tear ducts, orbit and surrounding face. Unlike a general plastic surgeon, an oculoplastic surgeon's entire training and surgical practice is centred on the eye region, typically performing several hundred operations a year in this area alone.
An ophthalmologist is a doctor trained to diagnose and treat eye disease, including general eye surgery such as cataracts. An oculoplastic surgeon is an ophthalmologist who has gone on to complete additional specialist fellowship training in surgery of the eyelids, tear drainage system, orbit and the aesthetics of the face around the eyes.
Droopy eyelids may need treatment if they're affecting your vision, causing eye strain or headaches from compensating with your brow, or if their appearance is bothering you. At consultation, Mr Sultan assesses the underlying cause and how much it's affecting your visual field before recommending whether - and when - surgery is appropriate.
Yes. A functional procedure restores something - usually vision, comfort or the eye's protection - while a cosmetic procedure is chosen purely to improve appearance. Many blepharoplasty operations do both at once, improving vision and appearance together. Mr Sultan will clarify which applies to your situation, which can also affect insurance cover.
Your first visit includes a discussion of your symptoms, general health and any medications, followed by a detailed examination of your eyes and eyelids. Photographs are often taken for planning and to track your results. Mr Sultan will explain what's causing your symptoms, the treatment options available, and the likely outcomes and risks, before agreeing a plan together.
Most patients find eyelid surgery far more comfortable than they expect. The majority of procedures are performed under local anaesthetic, sometimes with light sedation for anxious patients, and afterwards discomfort is usually mild and well controlled with simple painkillers.
Incisions are placed wherever possible within the natural eyelid crease or on the inner eyelid surface, where they're very difficult to see once healed. Scarring is something Mr Sultan plans for carefully at every stage of surgery.
As with any surgery, there are risks - including infection, bleeding, dry eyes, temporary blurred vision, scarring, asymmetry or the need for further treatment. Serious complications are uncommon. Mr Sultan discusses the risks relevant to your specific procedure and health during consultation.
You may be asked to stop certain blood-thinning medications ahead of surgery, arrange for someone to take you home afterwards, and avoid smoking before and after the procedure to support healing. You'll receive tailored written instructions ahead of your surgery date.
Approximate guidance only - your surgeon will give you a timeline specific to your procedure and health.
| Procedure | Back to light activity | Bruising & swelling settle | Final result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cataract surgery | 2–3 days | Days | 4–6 weeks |
| Ptosis repair | Few days | 1–2 weeks | Few months |
| Blepharoplasty | 7–10 days | 1–2 weeks | Several months |
| Ectropion repair | Few days | 1–2 weeks | Few weeks |
| Entropion repair | Few days | 1–2 weeks | Few weeks |
It depends on how you're paying for your care. Private, self-funding patients can generally book directly with Mr Sultan's clinics without a GP referral. If you're using medical insurance, some policies require a referral letter from your GP - it's worth checking with your insurer before booking.
Mr Sultan accepts direct billing with Allianz, WPA and Aviva, alongside self-pay. See the Contact page for details.
Privately, at Kelsall Surgical Centre in Cheshire and iSIGHT Clinic in Southport. See locations & contact details.
Book a consultation and Mr Sultan will talk it through with you directly.