The orbit is the bony socket in the skull that contains and houses the eye and all the associated structures that support the function of the eye, including muscles, nerves and blood vessels. The eye and these other structures are surrounded by fat which acts as cushion to protect the eye as we run around or if we inadvertently get hit in the eye.
What Causes Orbital Problems?
There are various problems that can affect the orbit and its contents, including tumors, infections, trauma (orbital fracture), congenital, and inflammatory conditions (Graves or thyroid eye disease).
Above left, a patient with an orbital tumor is pictured. Right, the same patient 6 weeks post tumor excursion.
Symptoms of Orbital Problems
Whenever orbital problems arise, patients generally tend to experience a wide variety of symptoms and varied pain levels including double vision, loss of vision, swelling, and bruising. Evaluation with a trained specialist is important to appropriately evaluate and treat the underlying problem at hand, which could be a number of medical issues including tumors, infection, orbital fractures, sports injuries, or a more serious inflammatory disease.
Prevention and Treatment
Though some orbital problems such as tumors and diseases cannot be prevented, it's important to take the proper precautions to protect your eyes in order to prevent unnecessary injury. To stop unwanted bacteria and infections from causing orbital problems, always wash your hands before touching your eyes or handling your eye wear, i.e. glasses or contacts. If you participate in sports or fitness activities, it's always important to wear protective safety glasses or goggles to avoid orbital fractures from occurring due to strenuous or rough physical activity.
Depending on the severity of the orbital problem, treatment options vary from individual to individual. If you're experiencing any of the problems listed above, it's always best to contact an expert ocular plastic surgeon to learn more about what can be done to assist you.
Who Should Treat Orbital Disease?
The orbit is a small, compact and complex structure. Oculoplastic surgeons have undertaken the extra training to deal with the nuances of treating orbital disease and injuries. An oculoplastic surgeon, who is a member of American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS), is someone who is a board certified ophthalmologist who has completed additional 2-year fellowship training in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery of the eyelids, orbits (eye socket), lacrimal system( tearing system) and surrounding structures. Dr. Taban is triple board certified by American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS), and American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). Dr. Taban is an oculoplastic surgeon in Beverly Hills and Santa Barbara with extensive knowledge in the treatment of orbital fractures, orbital disease, and other orbital problems. To learn more about treatment options that may be suitable for you, schedule your initial consult with Dr. Taban today at his Beverly Hills or Santa Barbara office.
Dr. Taban is a board certified ocular plastic surgeon and has extensive knowledge in the treatment of orbital fractures, orbital disease, and other orbital problems. To learn more about treatment options that may be suitable for you, schedule your initial consult with Dr. Taban today at his Beverly Hills or Santa Barbara office.
Next, learn about orbital fractures.