A variety of eyelid conditions can impact vision, comfort and appearance. Ptosis is a medical term for drooping upper eyelids. The most common cause is aging, when the eyelid muscles tend to weaken. However, some people are born with the condition, and trauma, contact lens wear and certain neurological conditions are risk factors at younger ages. Ptosis may impact one eye or both. Treatment typically involves surgically shortening the muscles that open the eyelid.

Excess eyelid skin, caused by stretching of this very thin tissue, is another condition that can affect vision. The excess skin can be removed by a procedure called blepharoplasty, a form of plastic surgery.

Ectropion is a condition when the lower eyelids and lashes sag and turn outward. As a result, the eyelids don't function properly, causing ineffective tear lubrication of the eyes, along with eyelid redness and a sensation of irritation. If untreated, ectropion can lead to cornea damage or eye infection. Surgery is used to move the eyelid back to its normal position.

Entropion is a somewhat related condition; in this case the eyelids fold inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. Entropion is most often caused by anatomical factors. Corrective surgery involves tightening weak ligaments within the lids; ideally, the surgery will take place before serious damage to the cornea occurs.

Corrective surgery for these eyelid conditions usually takes about an hour or less. Local anesthetics are most often used, but sometime general anesthesia is the preferred choice. Patients are almost always back home the same day.

For more information on eyelid conditions and treatment:
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