Eyelid conditions can negatively impact your eyesight just as much as eye conditions.
When you think of conditions that affect the eyes, you most likely think of the eye itself. However, numerous conditions affect the eyelids and surrounding areas.
If you have an ongoing eyelid issue or condition, schedule an appointment with an eye care professional at The Laser Eye Care Center.
Any time you notice worrying symptoms regarding your eyes or eyelids, you should seek professional help as soon as possible to prevent possible vision damage or loss.
Common symptoms of serious eyelid conditions include:
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to schedule an eye exam with one of our eye care professionals.
Ptosis is an eyelid condition that results in drooping eyelids. While this is very common in seniors, it can also occur during your 50s and 60s. In certain instances, ptosis hinders eyesight. In severe cases, amblyopia or astigmatism can result if ptosis is left untreated.
The treatment for ptosis is oculoplastic surgery.
Eyelid cancer occurs when cancerous cells develop on the outer surface of the eyelid. Eyelid cancer can take several forms, including:
Eyelid cancer needs to be correctly diagnosed and treated with oculoplastic surgery and/or radiation therapy, depending on individual circumstances.
Dermatochalasis is a condition that causes excess skin growth on the upper and/or lower eyelid. Dermatochalasis is part of the aging process; nevertheless, it can become problematic when reducing peripheral vision or inducing headaches. Heavy smokers and those with congenital or thyroid issues are more likely to develop dermatochalasis.
Oculoplastic surgery is the recommended treatment.
Blepharitis is a common problem resulting in inflammation of the eyelid and symptoms such as:
This condition is often associated with other skin and eye conditions, such as dry eyes. It can develop into cornea-damaging inflammation and eyelashes growing in the wrong direction or shedding.
Eyelid tumors can develop as either cancerous or non-cancerous. Diagnosis by a professional is necessary to determine the proper treatment.
In either case, removal of the tumor by an oculoplastics doctor is needed, followed by treatment of the underlying cause, if necessary.
Trichiasis is an eyelid condition that results in eyelashes turning inward. This condition can generate significant cornea irritation, including discomfort and pain.
A chalazion is a growth on the eyelid frequently mistaken for a benign sty. A chalazion can grow as large as a pea. These growths are caused by an oil blockage in the meibomian gland, which causes a lump to form.
Entropion is an eyelid condition where the eyelid is abnormally turned inward. Aside from discomfort, entropion can cause irritation and possible damage to the cornea.
This condition is often present at birth and may require the skills of an oculoplastics doctor for correction.
Eyelid conditions are caused by several factors, such as:
After treatment of your eyelid issue is complete, your doctor will provide recommendations for treating the underlying cause or preventing a recurrence of the problem. Individual circumstances will vary.
Eyelid conditions are diagnosed using a variety of methods, such as:
The diagnostic process for eyelid conditions is determined by the symptoms present. The most important aspect of an eyelid condition diagnosis is expediency. No matter the condition, getting a medical diagnosis and immediate treatment is imperative to avoid permanent damage and/or vision impairment.
Several treatment options are available for eyelid conditions, including oculoplastic surgery. Treatment will depend on the condition, severity, and case details.
Your oculoplastics doctor will discuss available treatments during your visit. If you or a loved one experiences any of the symptoms listed above, or if you suspect an eyelid condition, please contact your eyecare professional at the The Laser Eye Care Center.