Blepharochalasis is a condition that causes extra skin to develop in the upper eyelid, leading to drooping and wrinkles. Surgery can be performed by an oculoplastic specialist to remove excess skin and tighten the eyelid. It is a cosmetic concern that can be managed with medical advice.
Blepharochalasis is a series of changes that occur in the upper eyelid, usually in both eyes, causing extra skin to develop and often forcing the eyelid to droop, in a condition called ptosis. There are surgical treatments available for blepharochalasis. An oculoplastic specialist is usually consulted when a patient is a candidate for surgery, as these surgeons specialize in plastic surgery around the eye and have extensive experience with conditions such as blepharochalasis.
This condition begins with periodic episodes of eyelid inflammation leading to edema, where the eyelid swells and fills with fluid. Only the upper eyelid is usually involved. The inflammation follows short cycles of several days each. Other times, the repeated swelling thins the upper eyelid skin and stretches it, creating fine, tissue-like wrinkles in the upper eyelid. The eyelid may start to sag and may appear papery or swollen, depending on whether there is a period of active inflammation.
Patients usually develop blepharochalasis when they are young, typically under the age of 30. This distinguishes it from dermatochalasis, the drooping of the upper eyelids that occurs with age. Patients with dermatochalasis also tend not to develop the characteristic thinning and wrinkled tissue seen in cases of blepharochalasis. The names for both conditions include the Greek root for “sagging,” which describes the hallmark of both conditions, a relaxation of the muscles that normally support the eyelids.
Candidates for surgery include patients with severe drooping or wrinkling who have not experienced eyelid inflammation for at least six months. If the cycle of inflammation is still active, surgery is usually contraindicated. A surgeon can perform a blepharoplasty procedure to remove excess skin and tighten the upper eyelid to remove wrinkles and fix sagging. Recovery from surgery can take a few days or weeks, and patients may choose to address other cosmetic concerns during surgery, depending on their preferences.
For the most part, blepharochalasis is not a dangerous condition. It is mostly a cosmetic concern, as the eyelid looks unusual and can attract attention. Patients who develop droopy eyelids may experience vision impairment, and rarer complications sometimes develop. Consulting an ophthalmologist is recommended to screen for potentially dangerous complications and to get advice on managing inflammation. If surgery is needed or desired, your eye doctor may refer you to an oculoplastic specialist. It may be a good idea to see several surgeons before selecting one to perform the procedure.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
