Dermatochalasis

What is dermatochalasis?

Dermatochalasis is an optical health condition that causes excess skin to form on the upper or lower lids of a patient's eyes. Though often cosmetic in nature, as the problem progresses patients can begin to experience vision obstruction. In severe cases, dermatochalasis can disrupt over 50% of the visual field.

What causes dermatochalasis?

Dermatochalasis can be caused by a genetic predisposition that causes excess skin on the eyelids to form naturally. Congenital dermatochalasis often affects patients around 20 years of age. In rare cases, dermatochalasis can be the symptom of an illness or disease occurring elsewhere in the body. However, in most cases dermatochalasis is caused by the natural onset of aging. Patients as young as 40 years of age can begin to experience a loss of elasticity in the tissue that works to connect the structures of your eyelid, causing drooping and excess skin.

The symptoms of dermatochalasis include:

• Eyes which appear to be constantly tired
• Drooping lids
• Wrinkles in the lower eyelids
• Bags in the lower or upper lids of the eyes
• Excess skin in the upper or lower eyelids
• Blurry or obstructed vision
• Loss of vision in the superior visual field

How is dermatochalasis diagnosed?

Dermatochalasis can be diagnosed by a simple optical examination from an ophthalmologist. Our doctors will go over your medical history to ensure a personalized course of treatment.

What are the treatment options for dermatochalasis?

Dermatochalasis can be treated successfully for both cosmetic as well as medical needs through a state of the art surgical procedure known as blepharoplasty. In this treatment, an eye surgeon works to remove the excess skin, fat, and muscle of your lower and upper eyelids. Surgery is typically recommended for severe cases in order to improve both the appearance of your eyelids as well as to remove visual obstructions from with your sight.