What is the goal of subcutaneous infiltration of local anesthesia in ophthalmic procedures?

The goal of subcutaneous infiltration of local anesthesia in ophthalmic procedures primarily focuses on providing adequate pain relief in specific areas. In fact, the infiltration technique targets an area around the surgical site, which can include nerves that innervate not just the eyelids but also nearby muscles like the orbicularis oculi. By achieving localized numbness, the procedure allows for better patient comfort and minimizes reflexive actions during surgery.

While the muscle paralysis of the orbicularis oculi may occur as a consequence of local anesthesia injection, it is not the primary objective of the infiltration. Instead, the overarching intent is to provide localized anesthesia that allows for a pain-free surgical experience while still enabling the surgeon to communicate any necessary responses during the procedure.

Other options refer to broader effects that are not the specific purpose of subcutaneous infiltration. For instance, numbing the entire head would not be practical nor necessary, as the focus is on the localized area around the eye. Reducing swelling typically involves different interventions, such as the application of ice or other anti-inflammatory measures. Enhancing the effectiveness of topical medications is also more related to the use of adjunct therapies rather than the primary aim of infiltration. Thus, while local anesthesia can influence various underlying functions and sensations