Eyelid disorders can significantly impact both your vision and appearance. Eyelids are essential for protecting your eyes, keeping them moist, and maintaining clear vision. However, conditions such as entropion, ectropion, and ptosis can compromise these functions and affect your daily life. This is where oculoplastic surgeons come in—specialists who focus on both the functional and aesthetic aspects of eyelid care.
In this blog, the pros at New York Eye & Face explore common eyelid disorders, the symptoms you may experience, and how skilled oculoplastic surgeons effectively treat these conditions to restore eye health and appearance.
What is Oculoplastic Surgery?
Oculoplastic surgery is a specialized field that focuses on the delicate structures around the eyes, including the eyelids, tear ducts, and orbit (eye socket). Oculoplastic surgeons, like Dr. Anaïs Carniciu at New York Eye & Face, undergo extensive training in ophthalmology and plastic surgery, making them uniquely qualified to treat eyelid disorders. Their expertise allows them to balance the functional needs of the eyes with the cosmetic aspects, ensuring optimal results for their patients.
Common Eyelid Disorders and How They Are Treated
Entropion: Inward-Turning Eyelids
Entropion is a condition where the eyelid, usually the lower one, turns inward, causing the eyelashes and skin to rub against the eye's surface. This constant irritation can lead to discomfort, excessive tearing, redness, and even corneal damage if left untreated.
Symptoms of Entropion:
- Eye irritation and redness
- Watery eyes or excessive tearing
- Sensitivity to light and wind
- Mucous discharge or crusting
Treatment:
Oculoplastic surgeons correct entropion by repositioning the eyelid to prevent inward turning. This is often achieved through a minor surgical procedure that tightens the muscles around the eyelid, restoring its normal position and function. Realigning the eyelid alleviates irritation and the risk of long-term eye damage.
Ectropion: Outward-Turning Eyelids
Ectropion is the opposite of entropion; the eyelid turns outward, exposing the inner eyelid surface. This exposure leaves the eye vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and infection, as the eyelid can no longer appropriately spread tears across the eye's surface. Ectropion most commonly affects the lower eyelid and is often related to aging, trauma, or facial paralysis.
Symptoms of Ectropion:
- Dry, gritty eyes
- Excessive tearing
- Chronic eye infections
- Irritation or redness
Treatment:
In most cases, ectropion is treated surgically by tightening and repositioning the eyelid to ensure proper closure and protection. This straightforward procedure restores the eyelid's ability to function correctly, reducing irritation and protecting the eye from further damage.
Ptosis: Drooping Eyelids
Ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid droops over the eye, potentially obstructing vision. While ptosis can result from aging, it can also occur due to injury, congenital conditions, or muscle weakness. In severe cases, ptosis can significantly affect a person’s ability to see, especially when the drooping eyelid covers part of the pupil.
Symptoms of Ptosis:
- Drooping of one or both upper eyelids
- Impaired vision
- Difficulty keeping the eyes open
- Eye strain and fatigue, especially after reading or performing tasks that require focusing
Treatment:
Ptosis is commonly treated with surgery to lift and reposition the eyelid. The procedure, known as a ptosis repair strengthens or shortens the muscles responsible for elevating the eyelid. This improves vision and enhances the overall appearance, giving the patient a more refreshed and youthful look.
Why Choose an Oculoplastic Surgeon for Eyelid Disorders?
Oculoplastic surgeons like Dr. Carniciu offer the specialized care needed to address eyelid disorders' functional and aesthetic concerns. With her background in ophthalmology and plastic surgery, she can provide comprehensive solutions that restore the health of your eyes while maintaining or enhancing the appearance of your eyelids. This combination of expertise ensures the best possible outcomes for patients with entropion, ectropion, and ptosis.
Restore Comfort and Vision with Expert Care at New York Eye & Face Oculoplastic Surgery
If you are experiencing discomfort from drooping, inward-turning, or outward-turning eyelids, seeking specialized care from an experienced oculoplastic surgeon is essential. At New York Eye & Face Oculoplastic Surgery, Dr. Anaïs Carniciu provides expert diagnosis and treatment for various eyelid disorders, helping patients restore both function and appearance.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you manage your eyelid condition. Your eyes deserve the best care, and we are here to provide it.
