An orbital blowout fracture occurs when the thin bones of the eye socket (orbit) are fractured due to trauma, such as a sports injury, fall, or car accident. These fractures can impact both the function and appearance of the eyes, requiring expert surgical intervention to repair the damage and prevent long-term complications.
Dr. Robert Schwarcz, with offices on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in NYC and Rye, NY, specializes in orbital blowout fracture surgery, offering precise, personalized care to restore both function and aesthetics.
What Is an Orbital Blowout Fracture?
An orbital blowout fracture occurs when trauma causes one or more of the thin bones in the eye socket to break. The most commonly affected areas include the orbital floor and medial wall.
Symptoms of an Orbital Blowout Fracture:
Double Vision (Diplopia): Due to misalignment of the eyes or trapped eye muscles.
Swelling and Bruising: Around the eye and eyelid.
Restricted Eye Movement: Caused by muscle entrapment in the fracture site.
Sunken Eye Appearance (Enophthalmos): The eye may appear recessed due to loss of orbital support.
Numbness or Tingling: Around the cheek or upper lip due to nerve compression.
When Is Surgery Needed?
Not all orbital blowout fractures require surgery, as some minor fractures can heal on their own. Surgery is recommended when:
There is significant muscle entrapment causing restricted eye movement or double vision.
The eye appears sunken or the facial structure is noticeably asymmetrical.
The fracture is large and risks long-term deformity or functional impairment.
Persistent pain, swelling, or other symptoms do not resolve with conservative treatment.
Orbital Blowout Fracture Surgery
Goals of the Surgery:
Restore the natural shape and volume of the orbit.
Release entrapped muscles and tissues.
Improve eye movement and alignment.
Prevent long-term deformities or vision problems.
The Surgical Procedure:
Preoperative Planning:
Imaging studies such as CT scans are used to map the fracture and plan the repair.
Surgical Approach:
Incisions are made in inconspicuous locations, such as inside the lower eyelid or along a natural crease, to minimize visible scarring.
Fracture Repair:
The fracture site is reconstructed using biocompatible materials like titanium mesh or porous polyethylene implants to restore orbital support.
Entrapped muscles and tissues are carefully released to restore normal function.
Closure:
Incisions are meticulously closed to ensure minimal scarring and natural results.
Recovery and Aftercare
What to Expect After Surgery:
Swelling and Bruising: These are normal and usually subside within 1–2 weeks.
Vision Improvement: Double vision and restricted movement typically improve as swelling decreases.
Follow-Up Appointments: Regular visits ensure proper healing and monitor for any complications.
Aftercare Tips:
Avoid strenuous activities for several weeks.
Follow all post-operative instructions, including the use of prescribed medications.
Protect the eye from trauma by wearing protective gear if necessary.
Why Choose Dr. Robert Schwarcz for Orbital Blowout Fracture Surgery?
Dr. Robert Schwarcz is a leading oculofacial plastic surgeon with extensive expertise in repairing orbital fractures. His advanced surgical techniques ensure that function and appearance are restored with precision and care.
With offices on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in NYC and Rye, NY, Dr. Schwarcz provides compassionate, personalized care to help patients recover fully and regain confidence.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’ve suffered an orbital blowout fracture, prompt treatment is essential to prevent long-term complications. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert Schwarcz today. Request an appointment by clicking the button below to take the first step toward restoring your eye’s function and appearance.
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