Introduction
Malpositions of the eyelids threaten or interfere with vision. Eyelids protect the eyes and help with the spreading of tears. Eyelid malpositions can be caused by aging, trauma, birth defects, or medical disease.
Ptosis, or drooping eyelids, is a medical condition that can affect one or both of the upper lids. Although most commonly associated with aging, there are many causes, and some people can be born with ptosis. Drooping eyelids can progress to block the upper half of one’s peripheral vision.
Dr. Enzer evaluates each patient for the cause of their ptosis, and whether it can be treated medically or surgically. Ptosis surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia.
Ectropion is an outward turning of the eyelid margin causing it to be displaced away from the globe (eye). As a result, the eye or eyelid may become dry, red, and inflamed. Some patients get recurrent infections or tearing.
Surgical tightening can reasonably restore the eyelid to a normal position, thereby relieving the patient’s discomfort and protecting the eye.
Entropion is the inward turning of the eyelid, causing the lashes to irritate the cornea (a sensitive part of the eye surface). The eye becomes red and irritated, sensitive to light and environmental factors. Left untreated, the eye can develop severe infections and scarring, which may compromise one’s vision. The solution is usually an out-patient surgical procedure, performed under sedation anesthesia to tighten the eyelids and direct the lid margin back to its normal position.
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