While many people think of eye doctors as professionals who help patients to see better, the experts at Clarity Eye Group put a focus on treating the whole eye for good health. This includes conditions that may afflict the eyelids. Patients in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa and Orange County who develop a problem with their eyelids are often referred to us first because we treat a wide range of eyelid problems, including:
Chalazion
When the oil glands near the base of the eyelashes become clogged, a chalazion (or small lump) can form on the edge of the eyelid. A chalazion is not painful, but it can blur vision when it presses against the eyeball. Medication and use of a warm compress can help accelerate its disappearance. Although a chalazion should not be popped, it can be drained by one of our eye doctors if it does not subside over time with other treatments.
Stye
Often confused with a chalazion, a stye is an infection that causes a round abscess around a hair follicle or gland. Using a warm compress or medicated eyedrops can help to address the stye and prevent germs from spreading since styes are contagious. By removing the lash at the center of the stye, the stye usually drains without requiring a more intricate procedure.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis describes a condition in which the eyelids are chronically red, swollen and sore. The eyelids may feel itchy and develop crust. While blepharitis rarely causes any lasting damage to one’s vision, it can be enough of a nuisance that treatment is warranted. Blepharitis is most often caused by either a staph infection or seborrhea (a scaly skin condition). Both types are best treated with medicated drops and regular, thorough scrubbing of the eyelids to keep them clean.
Ptosis
While some people are born with droopy eyelids, many more develop this condition as they age. Most patients consider it a cosmetic issue, but an upper eyelid that sags significantly may impact the field of vision. With eyelid surgery (or blepharoplasty), a trained surgeon can tighten the eyelid muscles and remove a small amount of excess skin to allow the eyelid to open more fully.
Entropion & Ectropion
Eyelids that turn inward (entropion) or outward (ectropion) cannot properly protect the cornea. In most cases, the eyelid folds because the facial tissue has become soft and loose with age. For both entropion and ectropion, the best treatment is usually surgery to correct the positioning of the eyelid.
Schedule an Appointment
You do not need to worry about identifying the problem before you come in. We give each of our patients a thorough examination and can even perform an eyelid biopsy to test a suspicious growth. No matter what issue is bothering your eyelid, we are happy to help. To make an appointment, please call (714) 842-0651.