At Pure Sight Eye Surgeons, Dr Joanne Teong assesses and manages a range of eyelid conditions, from common inflammatory disorders to structural problems that may require surgical correction.
Common Eyelid Conditions
Ptosis (drooping eyelid)
Ptosis is a drooping of the upper eyelid caused by weakness or dysfunction of the muscle that lifts it. It can affect one or both eyes and may be present from birth or develop with age. In adults, acquired ptosis is often caused by stretching or disinsertion of the levator muscle. Ptosis can obstruct the upper visual field and, in children, may interfere with visual development.
Ectropion
Ectropion occurs when the lower eyelid turns outward, away from the eye. This prevents the lid from properly protecting the ocular surface and distributing tears, leading to chronic irritation, tearing, and exposure of the conjunctiva. It is most common in older adults and is usually related to age-related laxity of the eyelid tissues.
Entropion
Entropion is the inward turning of the eyelid, most commonly the lower lid, so that the lashes rub against the surface of the eye. This causes irritation, redness, watering, and, if untreated, can lead to corneal damage. Like ectropion, it is more common in older adults and is typically due to age-related changes in lid structure.
Chalazion and Hordeolum (stye)
A chalazion is a painless lump in the eyelid caused by a blocked meibomian gland. It is different from a stye (hordeolum), which is an acute bacterial infection of the eyelid margin causing a red, painful swelling. Most chalazia resolve with warm compress therapy, but persistent ones may require minor surgical drainage. Recurrent or atypical chalazia warrant further assessment.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins, typically involving the base of the eyelashes. It is one of the most common eyelid conditions and is closely associated with meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye disease. Symptoms include redness, crusting, irritation, and fluctuating vision. Management is usually ongoing and includes lid hygiene, warm compresses, and sometimes medicated drops or oral antibiotics.
Dermatochalasis
Dermatochalasis refers to excess, redundant skin of the upper or lower eyelids, commonly caused by age-related changes in skin elasticity. In the upper lids, significant dermatochalasis can hang over the lash line and obstruct the upper visual field, in which case surgical correction may be considered.
Assessment
Eyelid conditions are assessed through a clinical examination of the eyelid structure, function, and surrounding tissues. Your doctor will assess lid position and movement, the degree of any obstruction to vision, and the health of the ocular surface. Photographs may be taken to document and monitor changes over time.
Book a Consultation
A referral from your GP, optometrist, or another specialist is required. To book, call 1300 DR CHIU (1300 37 2448) or request an appointment through our online form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a drooping eyelid always a sign of something serious?
In most adults, ptosis is related to age-related changes in the eyelid muscle or tendon and is not a sign of a serious underlying condition. However, sudden onset of ptosis, particularly if associated with double vision, pupil changes, or other neurological symptoms, should be assessed urgently as it can occasionally indicate a neurological or vascular problem.
Can eyelid conditions affect my vision?
Yes. Significant ptosis or dermatochalasis can obstruct the upper visual field, and entropion can cause corneal damage if untreated. In children, ptosis that covers the visual axis can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) if not corrected early.
Will I need surgery for my eyelid condition?
Not always. Many eyelid conditions, such as blepharitis and chalazion, are managed conservatively. Structural conditions like ptosis, ectropion, entropion, and significant dermatochalasis often benefit from surgical correction. Dr Teong will discuss the most appropriate management based on your individual assessment.