Blepharitis is a very common condition. Patients will experience irritation, redness, foreign body sensation, crusting, watering, occasional intermittent blurred vision, pain, and discomfort. This commonly occurs when the oily secretions from the glands near the lashes build up. This can be a chronic condition and requires long term maintenance. Treatment involves putting hot compresses on the eye with a hot wet towel, proper lid hygiene, and artificial tears. In more advanced cases, treatment with eye drops or oral medicines is required.

Chalazion commonly presents as a bump on the eyelids. This occurs when the oil glands near the eyelashes become clogged. Initially, patients may develop some pain and redness with the bump. The treatment involves putting hot compresses with a hot wet towel three to four times per day for three weeks. Most often this helps to resolve the Chalazion. If conservative measures are not adequate then surgery can be performed in the office. Over the counter “sty medicines” are NOT effective.

Dermatochalasis is a condition often seen as people age. The skin over the eyelids becomes loose and this can hang over the lids causing vision problems. This can be repaired surgically with a same-day procedure called Blepharoplasty.

Ectropion occurs when the eyelids rotate outward away from the eyeballs. This can lead to irritation, watering, and scratchiness of the eyes. In mild cases, aggressive lubrication can help alleviate the symptoms. Surgery is the definitive treatment. This is performed on an outpatient basis.

Entropion occurs when the eyelids turn inward and the lashes start to rub against the eyeball. This causes the eye to become irritated, watery, and feel scratchy. Surgery is required to reposition the eyelid. Without treatment, the constant rubbing of the eyelashes can cause damage and scarring on the eyeball.

Bell’s Palsy is a condition that occurs when the nerve controlling the facial muscles around the eye becomes damaged. When this happens, the eyelids cannot close properly. This leads to constant exposure to the eyeball. Patients will experience irritation, redness, and scratchy sensation. The eyeball has to be aggressively lubricated to prevent drying. In untreated cases, scarring can develop on the eye that can lead to vision loss. Most cases improve a over few weeks. In some patients, surgery is required to help with the closure of the eyelid. Sometimes a temporary partial lid closure is performed while the Bell’s Palsy is healing.

Visit our clinic or schedule an eye exam now!