Contracted Socket – Socket Reconstruction

Staged Orbital Rehabilitation: Implant · Mucous Membrane Graft · Prosthetic Fitting

A 22-year-old patient who underwent enucleation for retinoblastoma at the age of 5 presented with a severely contracted socket after years of living with cosmetic disfigurement and social awkwardness. Through staged socket rehabilitation — with secondary orbital implant placement, mucous membrane grafting and finally a customised ocular prosthesis — we were able to restore facial symmetry and a natural appearance. More importantly, the patient regained the confidence he had missed through much of his childhood and adolescence.

1. Operated elsewhere at 5 years of age
Childhood photograph after enucleation for retinoblastoma showing a contracted socket with no implant
Post-enucleation contracted socket. Patient had undergone enucleation for retinoblastoma in childhood with no implant placed at primary surgery.
2. Presentation at 22 years of age
Severely contracted socket with reduced fornical depth and inadequate conjunctival lining
Severely contracted socket with reduced fornical depth and inadequate conjunctival lining. Staged socket reconstruction planned.
3. Final outcome
Final outcome with a well-fitting custom ocular prosthesis and restored symmetric facial appearance
Excellent cosmetic rehabilitation with well-fitting custom ocular prosthesis. Symmetric facial appearance restored.
Sometimes, oculoplasty surgery is not just about reconstruction; it is about helping a person reclaim a part of their life.
Related service: Socket Reconstruction & Artificial Eye Rehabilitation →