Over time, gravity slowly affects all body tissues. In many cases, the skin’s natural elasticity slowly wanes, resulting in slight drooping of the upper eyelids, or loosening of the lower eyelid, resulting in a turn of the eyelid into, or away from, the eye. This natural process can sometimes cause irritation and dryness of the ocular surface, or loss of the upper part of the visual field.
An upper eyelid blepharoplasty, more commonly known as a blepharoplasty, can improve the superior visual field, and allow improved visual acuity. It has the secondary effect of also often making a patient appear “younger.” MSP covers upper eyelid blepharoplasty when the visual field is compromised.
Chalazia, commonly known as “styes,” are very common, and are associated with meibomian gland dysfunction. Meibomian glands are small, thin, vertical glands that secrete fluid onto the surface of the eye to prevent evaporation of the tear film. In many cases, these can resolve with hot compresses, and artificial tears for comfort. Sometimes, these do not resolve, or granulate/scar. This can be treated with a small incision from the inside of the eyelid and manual removal of the meibomian gland contents. This is done in the office under local anesthesia (small needle with anesthetic). The cosmetic outcome of this procedure is generally very favourable.