Epiblepharon Causes Persistent Eye Discomfort- How Treatment Can Help

It’s hard for most people to imagine how their eyelashes could scratch their eyes, but it’s an everyday reality for people with epiblepharon. This condition mainly occurs in children and is caused by the lower eyelid skin pushing the eyelashes against the eye. As a result, the lashes can interfere with vision and cause discomfort as they touch the ocular surface.

Dr. Scott likens the eyelid to a sandwich with a piece of bread on either side. Epiblepharon occurs when the front layer of skin and muscle on the lower eyelid doesn’t properly adhere to the back portion of the eyelid. An extra fold appears in the lower eyelid, pushing the lashes upward and posteriorly toward the eye. The condition is typically genetic and usually occurs in Asian, Hispanic, and Native American children. Although it is rare, epiblepharon can occasionally occur in the upper eyelid as well.

The good news is that the condition is asymptomatic in most children. Even better, they tend to grow out of it and don’t require surgery. But in a small number of cases, epiblepharon continues into adulthood and causes significant eye discomfort or damage. When severe enough, epiblepharon can cause the vertical eyelashes to scratch against the cornea. Patients can experience eye pain, redness, itching, watering, discharge, and sensitivity to light. It is common for individuals with this condition to have tried multiple home remedies before having their problem correctly diagnosed. They use eye drops and ointments, carry tissues everywhere, and wear sunglasses. Unfortunately, many doctors are unfamiliar with this condition or don’t realize that treatment is available. But when the condition does not improve spontaneously, an eyelid surgery can be performed to correct the problem and dramatically improve the patient’s quality of life.

Dr. Scott’s preferred method of epiblepharon correction involves making a small incision underneath the eyelashes and removing a very small “banana shaped” strip of skin and muscle. The wound is then sutured closed thereby reducing the extra lower eyelid fold, and this returns the eyelashes to a more standard position. Complications from this surgery are very rare.

If you suspect you have epiblepharon and experience chronic symptoms, you don’t have to live with this condition. You deserve to live a life free of eye discomfort and pain. Call Eye Plastic Associates to schedule a consultation at which Dr. Scott will assess your situation and determine the best path forward.

Meet Dr. Scott - Your Dedicated Oculoplastic Surgeon

Renowned for his commitment to enhancing your eyelid and facial appearance while prioritizing your safety. Dr. Scott is board-certified in Ophthalmology and has specialized fellowship training in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.  With extensive training at prestigious institutions, including the Medical College of Virginia, Manhattan Eye, Ear, & Throat Hospital, and the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Dr. Scott brings a wealth of expertise to his craft. His accolades, including recognition as a Top Plastic Surgeon by Northern Virginia Magazine, underscore his dedication to excellence. Dr. Scott's passion lies in helping you achieve the best aesthetic results while safeguarding your eyesight.

Location: Fairfax - Northern Virginia

Areas of Expertise: Cosmetic laser eyelid surgery ( blepharoplasty ), ptosis surgery, treatment of benign and malignant eyelid cancers, correction of eyelid malposition – ectropion, entropion repair, and Botox and filler treatment.