Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery is the care and treatment of problems affecting the eyelids, tear system, orbit, and adjacent area of the face. Disorders of these structures threaten ocular health and vision. Such disorders may result from birth defects, injury, disease, or from the normal aging process. The eyes are the focal point of the face, and any improvement in this area enhances your overall appearance. Looking better often helps you feel better.
Our patients enjoy an intimate and private setting dedicated to the practice of ophthalmic plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. You will appreciate Dr. McKinstry's attention to fine detail that comes from her training in microsurgery, as well as her feminine artistic sense. Dr. McKinstry and her staff are committed to giving you their utmost personal care.
Our Doctor
After graduating from Yale Medical School and training in Ophthalmology,
Dr. McKinstry completed her specialty in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA. Dr. McKinstry is currently on staff at several hospitals in the area and is Chief of Ophthalmology at Mission Hospital. She is an Assistant Clinical Professor at
UCLA. She resides in Laguna Hills with her husband where she is an active and involved mother of two children.
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift or tuck, is an operation that removes excess skin and puffiness from the upper and lower eyelids. Lower eyelid puffiness may be corrected with no skin incision. This procedure results in a more youthful and rested look, can improve peripheral vision, and can lessen the feelings of fatigue and eyestrain. People of any age, sex, or race may be good candidates for this surgery.
Eyebrow and Forehead Lift
Brow ptosis, or sagging eyebrows, is caused by loose forehead skin. The brow lift elevates the eyebrows and diminishes forehead wrinkles and frown lines.
Ptosis Repair
Ptosis, or droopy upper eyelids, results from inadequate eyelid muscle function. The muscle may be shortened by a variety of surgical techniques to raise the eyelid.
Loose Lower Eyelid Repair
Looseness of the lower eyelid may result in an out-turning of the lid (ectropion) or an in-turning (entropion), so that the eyelashes rub against the eye. Either condition can be irritating, unsightly, and even dangerous to the eye.
Permanent Eyeliner and/or Eyebrow Liner
Permanent eyeliner is an attractive solution for women who like the look but not the bother of makeup. It can be applied during blepharoplasty surgery or as a separate procedure.
Relief from Tearing
Tearing often results from blockage of the nasolacrimal system, which normally drains tears from the eye into the nose and throat. A new drainage canal can be constructed.
Blepharospasm
Blepharospasm is an involuntary twitching or spasm of the eyelid muscles, often leading to functional blindness and facial disfigurement. Non-surgical office treatment relieves the symptoms in up to 92% of patients
Removal of Lesions and Tumors
Eyelid nodules may be benign or malignant, as well as unattractive. They should be evaluated as soon as possible. If removal is required, the defect can be repaired to restore a normal appearance.
Reconstruction After Injury
Injury to the area of the eye may result in complex lacerations or fractured bones with possible subsequent scarring, deformity, and visual loss. Results are best if specialty care is provided soon after the injury; however, much can be done to correct these deformities resulting from old injuries.
Rehabilitation of Thyroid Eye Disease
Thyroid eye disease results in a bulging, wide-eyed look and can even threaten vision. Treatment to preserve sight and restore a more normal appearance can be both medical and surgical.
Outpatient Surgery
Eyelid surgery is an outpatient procedure which can be done in the hospital, ambulatory surgical center, or office minor surgery room.
Complications
Complications can occur with any surgical procedure. In eyelid surgery, complications are infrequent but may include infections, excessive scarring, and undesirable asymmetry. Most complications can be resolved with further treatment.
Costs
Insurance and Medicare generally pay for surgeries to correct medical or functional problems but not for procedures that are classified as cosmetic. Fees and payment for
planned surgery will be discussed with the doctor or one of the office staff. The fees include surgery follow up visits for three months.