LAUSR

We have been constantly coming across a couple of questions from some mentors, peers, and trainees with regard to the use of the endoscope in the field of oculo-facial plastic surgery. The first question is why it is essential to utilize an endoscope when the conventional procedures are working just as well? The second is to what extent can it be beneficial? The answer to the first question is rooted in three concepts of modern medicine: less invasiveness, rapid recovery, and better quality of life. Ophthalmologists experienced the same scenario when phacoemulsification cataract surgery was first introduced against extracapsular cataract extraction procedure, and it is clear how the story went. This editorial highlights an update on the use of the endoscope in the field of oculo-facial plastic surgery to answer the second question. Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure which allows the physician to observe and manipulate the target organ through a keyhole or reach inaccessible targets. The basic instrument, the endoscope, includes a light source, delivery shaft, and a lens. There are various types available which are based on the length of the shaft and the strength and angulation of the lens. The most common ones used in our field are 4 mm and 2.7 mm diameter endoscope with zero, 30, and 45degree angulation of the lens. These are utilized in the lacrimal drainage system (LDS), orbital, and cosmetic surgery.