Dr Michéal O'Rourke
Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
MR MICHÉAL O’ROURKE is a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon who specialises in plastic surgery around the eye. He graduated with honours from Trinity College, Dublin (MB BCh BAO) in 2007. He was particularly drawn to the area of ophthalmology, studying the highly evolved structure of the eye - an outgrowth of the brain which makes up such a crucial component of our sensory system. Following years of intensive training on the Irish Ophthalmic Surgery training programme, indicating proficiency in all areas of ophthalmic medicine and surgery, he was enrolled as a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (FRCSI(Ophth)) in 2019. By examination, he was also awarded Fellowship of the European Board of Ophthalmology (FEBO). He holds a substantive public post at the Mater Misericordia University Hospital, Dublin and also works at Blackrock Clinic which includes his cataract surgery service.
Ophthalmology overlaps with many specialties – in particular dermatology - where a collaborative approach benefits the patient through optimising medical and surgical approaches to the periocular skin – the thinnest of anywhere in the body. Mr O’Rourke’s area of expertise is Oculoplastic Surgery. As a dual-trained surgeon, he combines the precision of intraocular micro-surgery and the aesthetic and reconstructive aspects of plastic surgery. This blend of training provides an essential balance between cosmetic and corrective surgery while maintaining the natural form and function of the eyelid and periocular area. His knowledge and experience understanding the complex anatomy of this delicate area yields a very natural result.
‘Functional’ oculoplastic surgery treats eyelid malposition (ectropion / entropion), droopy lids (ptosis), lash misdirection, removal of lesions around the eye, reconstructive surgery following excision of cancers, management of dry eye or watery eye. He is one of the few in Ireland trained in scarless endoscopic surgery for blocked tear ducts. He has a particular interest in thyroid eye disease and alongside the multi-disciplinary approach with colleagues, he offers the full service for surgical rehabilitation. Aesthetic surgery includes blepharoplasty surgery – one of the most common performed procedures world-wide which aims to restore a more youthful appearance to the eyes.
He dedicated 3 years of intensive, high-level fellowship training at international centres of excellence at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, UK and The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia including The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne. His aesthetic training includes The Jules Stein Institute, UCLA, California. Through exposure to a high volume of complex cases, learning niche skills and innovative techniques he gained invaluable experience under the tutorage of highly respected leaders in the field which now enables him to deliver the highest standard of care for his patients.
In parallel, he has amassed a strong research portfolio. He completed a PhD in the area of ocular immunology with translational and clinical components. He presented his results at national and international meetings, yielding many accolades and bursaries and published his results in high impact factor journals. He has authored over 20 peer-review journal articles, 5 book chapters and was a director of the Research Foundation at the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital. He continues to publish clinical research, including international collaborations which further our understanding of rare conditions and improve treatment options for patients. In recognition, he was recently appointed as Assistant Clinical Professor, UCD.
Michéal remains patient centric and strongly advocates for his patients. He is a committee member of the Thyroid Eye Disease Charitable Trust (TED CT) which provides peer-support for patients with this disfiguring disease. He compiled patient information leaflets on a variety of oculoplastic conditions, so you can make an informed decision regarding your condition. He is currently working on more interactive educational experiences in collaboration with his patient network. Using new media channels, shared experience and knowledge empowers patients. He is a member of the British Oculoplastic Surgery Society (BOPSS), the European Society of Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ESOPRS) and an International Associate Member of the American Oculofacial society (ASOPRS). He is also a board member of the Irish College of Ophthalmologists.
He is honoured to be invited to join the team at The Institute of Dermatologists whereby collaborating with expert dermatology colleagues, a seamless treatment plan incorporating his medical and surgical oculoplastic skillset with the single aim of providing you with the best possible care is realised.
Contact Details
Secretary: Charlotte
Phone: 01-9123420