Eyelid Conditions
& Eyelid Surgery

At Palmetto Eye & Laser Center our team is ready to tackle any eyelid condition challenge you might have including:

  • Eyelid malpositions
  • Eyelid growths
  • Eye watering and excessive tearing (dry eye)

EYELID MALPOSITIONS

Malposition is defined as an abnormal position. If you have an eyelid malposition, your eyelid has moved into an awkward position. It can turn inward or outward leading to eye discomfort, irritation, infection, excessive tearing, dry eye, light sensitivity and more.

  • Ectropion: eyelid turns out, often occurring in the lower eyelid
  • Entropion: eyelid turns in so eyelashes rub against the eye

Doctors can assess the cause of your eyelid disorder and recommend the best course of action. Surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. A small part of the eyelid may be removed to tighten and reposition the eyelid. If the cause is from scar tissue, a skin graft may be necessary to allow the eyelid to rest properly on the eye. The small stitches used to close the incisions will dissolve within two weeks.

Expect mild bruising and swelling on the eye for approximately two weeks after surgery. Following your doctor’s post-op instructions will help minimize discomfort. Medications, antibiotic ointments and cold compresses will most likely be prescribed to help your eyes heal.

If you are suffering from an abnormal eyelid position, contact our doctors to schedule your appointment and find out what types of relief are available for your eyes.

EYELID GROWTHS

There are several types of growths that can appear on the upper or lower eyelids. Besides being unattractive, they can also interfere with vision. Not all eyelid growths are serious, but they should be checked by an ophthalmologist to ensure they are not cancerous.

Common Types Of Eyelid Growths

  • Xanthelasma: yellow-white bump on the eye caused by an accumulation of fat. These may be caused by high cholesterol levels and are not cancerous.
  • Chalazion: soft or firm lump on the middle of the eyelid caused by an obstruction of the meibomian gland in the eye. These are not cancerous.
  • Styes: small, painful lump on the edge of the eyelid caused by an infected meibomian gland in the eye. This is an abscess that will be filled with pus. These are not cancerous but can recur.
  • Basal cell carcinoma: shiny bump that increases in size and can break open and bleed/scab. This is a common form of skin cancer that occurs around the eyes. A biopsy will be recommended.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma: scaly, thick growths that do not heal. This is another form of skin cancer that will require a biopsy.

At Palmetto Eye & Laser Center we can treat eyelid growths as well as remove eyelid lesions for biopsy.

If you are experiencing any type of eyelid growth, contact our office to schedule an appointment and learn about your treatment options

EYELID SURGERY

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is a very popular and effective technique used to improve the appearance and function of your eyelids. Just like other areas of your body, your eyelid skin can lose elasticity as you grow older. This can cause sagging of the upper eyelids and bags under the eyes. Not only can this make you look older and tired, drooping eyelids can also interfere with your vision.

HOW EYELID SURGERY WORKS

At Palmetto Eye & Laser Center we perform eyelid surgery in Spartanburg, South Carolina, as an outpatient procedure.

  • Local anesthetic is administered.
  • Incisions are made in the natural creases of the upper eyelid.
  • Excess fat, skin and muscle is removed.
  • The incisions are closed with small stitches that dissolve naturally.

Because the incisions are made in the natural creases, scarring is usually minimal. To achieve the most natural-looking results, it is important to have eyelid surgery performed by a board certified ophthalmologist that has extensive training and experience with this delicate procedure. Our eyelid surgeons have a strong track record of successful procedures and can share their experience and results with you.

EYELID SURGERY RECOVERY

It is common for the eye areas to have mild bruising and swelling for a week or two after surgery. Your eyes might also be sensitive to light and be prone to tearing. These are typically temporary side effects that can be minimized by following your doctor’s instructions for applying lubricating ointments, cold compresses, medications, etc.

Eyelid surgery is a great method of facial rejuvenation and vision enhancement – if it is done correctly. If you are unhappy with the appearance or function of your eyes, contact us today to discuss your individual situation and find out if eyelid surgery might help you enhance your life.

Possible Complications of Eyelid Surgery

Your doctor should explain all of the potential complications that may occur with eyelid surgery, including:

  • Scarring
  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Dry eyes
  • Temporary lid lag
  • Blurry vision
  • Pain
  • Vision loss
  • Revision surgery