Orbital surgery in Valencia
DR. SONIA PEÑARROCHA
Specialized diagnosis and treatment for orbital diseases.
The orbit is the bony cavity that protects the eye and contains the essential structures responsible for vision, including the muscles that move the eyeball, orbital fat, the lacrimal gland, blood vessels, and nerves. When any of these tissues are affected, symptoms such as proptosis (bulging eyes), double vision, inflammation, eye pain, changes in eye position, or visual disturbances may occur.
Orbital surgery is a highly specialized subspecialty of ophthalmology focused on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the orbital tissues, including thyroid eye disease, orbital tumors, and certain inflammatory disorders. This type of surgery requires accurate diagnosis, meticulous planning, and a delicate surgical approach to preserve both visual function and the natural appearance of the eyes.
As an ophthalmologist specializing in orbital surgery in Valencia, my goal is to provide personalized, safe care tailored to your individual needs, helping you preserve your vision, improve ocular comfort, and restore the natural harmony of your eyes.
Orbital conditions I treat
Thyroid eye disease
- An autoimmune condition in which the orbit is affected by thyroid dysfunction.
- Common symptoms include proptosis (bulging eyes), eyelid retraction, inflammation, dry eyes, double vision, and, in more advanced cases, compression of the optic nerve that may threaten vision.
- Treatment depends on the stage of the disease. During the active phase, the priority is controlling inflammation, while stable cases may require surgical procedures such as orbital decompression.
Orbital tumors
- A broad range of benign and malignant lesions that can affect the different tissues of the orbit.
- Symptoms vary depending on the type, size, and location of the tumor, but may include bulging or displacement of the eye, inflammation, pain, or visual disturbances.
- Treatment begins with a thorough diagnosis using advanced imaging techniques. Depending on the findings, it may include observation, surgery, or specific therapies such as oncological treatment.
Types of orbital surgery I perform
Orbital decompression surgery
Orbital decompression surgery is primarily performed in patients with thyroid eye disease who have significant proptosis (bulging eyes), compression of the optic nerve, or considerable functional and aesthetic impairment.
The aim of the procedure is to create more space within the orbit, reducing pressure on the eye and the surrounding structures. This can improve the position of the eyeball, relieve pressure on the optic nerve, and help preserve or restore visual function and the natural appearance of the eyes.
Orbital tumor surgery
Orbital tumor surgery involves the removal or reduction of lesions located within the orbit. The goal is to treat the lesion while preserving vision, eye movement, and the natural appearance of the tissues around the eye whenever possible.
The surgical approach is tailored to the type, size, and location of the tumor, as each case requires careful planning to access the lesion in the safest and most effective way, ensuring optimal disease control while minimizing potential complications and long-term effects.
How orbital surgery in Valencia works
Orbital surgery requires careful planning and a fully personalized approach. Every patient presents a unique situation, so the process is tailored according to the diagnosis, the stage of the condition, and its impact on vision and eye function.
These are the main stages of the orbital surgery process I follow in Valencia:
1. Personalized assessment and diagnosis
During the initial consultation, I perform a comprehensive eye examination to evaluate the condition of the orbit. In many cases, this assessment is complemented with imaging studies to accurately determine the extent of the condition and guide the most appropriate treatment plan.
2. Individualized treatment plan
Based on the findings, I develop the most suitable treatment approach for each patient. Surgery is not necessary in every case, so I carefully assess whether an operation is indicated or whether other treatment options should be considered first, always adapting the plan to the patient’s specific needs.
3. Surgical procedure
When surgery is recommended, it is performed in a specialized hospital setting, usually under general anesthesia. Depending on the procedure, it may require a short hospital stay or an overnight admission. The goal is to treat the condition safely while protecting vision and preserving the delicate structures of the eye.
4. Postoperative follow-up
After surgery, I provide detailed postoperative care instructions and prescribe any necessary medication. Regular follow-up appointments allow me to monitor your recovery and ensure the best possible outcome. Recovery time varies depending on the procedure, but most patients experience gradual improvement during the first few weeks.
Sonia Peñarrocha: orbital surgery specialist in Valencia
Advanced technology
Personalized care
Extensive training
I use state-of-the-art equipment that enables highly accurate diagnoses and efficient treatments tailored to my patients’ needs
Every patient is unique. I take the time needed to listen, carefully evaluate your case, and explain every step of the process, fully tailored to you
Extensive training in oculoplastics in both Spain and the United Kingdom, including a two-year fellowship at the prestigious Moorfields Eye Hospital
Do you have any doubts?
I am here to help you. Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.
Frequently asked questions about orbital surgery
When is orbital surgery necessary?
Orbital surgery is recommended when a disease or lesion affecting the orbit requires a biopsy to establish a diagnosis or when it threatens vision or affects the position or movement of the eye. Every case requires an individual assessment to determine whether surgery is necessary and to identify the most appropriate treatment.
Is orbital surgery painful?
No. Orbital surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during the procedure. After surgery, it is normal to experience some mild discomfort or swelling, which is temporary in most cases and can be effectively managed with the prescribed medication.
How long does recovery take after orbital surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and each patient’s individual circumstances. In general, most patients begin to notice improvement within the first few weeks, although a full recovery may take longer in some cases.
Can orbital surgery improve proptosis?
Yes. In selected cases, such as thyroid eye disease, orbital decompression surgery can help reduce proptosis (bulging eyes), improving both eye function and the natural appearance of the eyes.
What are the risks of orbital surgery?
Orbital surgery is one of the most complex procedures in oculoplastic surgery because it is performed around the eye and the optic nerve. Like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks, including bleeding, infection, changes in eye movement, double vision, or changes in vision. In very rare cases, permanent vision loss may occur. For this reason, every procedure requires careful planning and specialized follow-up care.
How much does orbital decompression surgery cost?
The cost of orbital decompression surgery varies depending on the type of procedure and the complexity of each case. As an orbital surgery specialist, I carry out a thorough assessment during the initial consultation, after which I can provide a personalized treatment plan and an estimate tailored to your specific needs.
Request an appointment for orbital surgery in Valencia
Are you experiencing eye discomfort, changes in the position of your eye, or vision problems?
I’m Dr. Sonia Peñarrocha, an ophthalmologist specializing in orbital surgery in Valencia. I provide personalized assessments for the diagnosis and treatment of orbital conditions, including thyroid eye disease and orbital tumors, always with a precise, patient-centered approach.
If you’re looking to improve your eye comfort, preserve your vision, and restore the natural harmony of your eyes safely and effectively, get in touch using the contact form and take the first step toward a personalized treatment plan.