Understanding and Treating Eyelid Malpositions

Functional and aesthetic eyelid correction for improved visual comfort and a natural appearance

Individual Solutions for Eyelid Malpositions

The eyelids perform a central protective function for the eyeball. In the event of external stimuli such as foreign bodies or strong glare, the eyelid closes reflexively, thereby protecting the eye. A healthy shape and correct position of the lids ensure that the eyeball is completely covered when the lid is closed.

Regular blinking distributes tear fluid evenly across the conjunctiva and cornea. This keeps the ocular surface moist and protects it from drying out.

Eyelid malpositions can be diverse. They often lead to impaired wetting of the ocular surface, which can manifest as increased tearing, a foreign body sensation, or increased sensitivity to light.

Healthy eyelids are therefore essential to reliably protect the eye from external influences.

Visual Field Restrictions in Eyelid Malpositions

Eyelid Malpositions

  • Entropion (Rolled Eyelid)

    When the eyelid margin turns inward, it is no longer the conjunctiva, but the eyelid edge with the eyelashes or even the outer eyelid skin that comes into contact with the eyeball. The eyelid is turned inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea.

  • Ectropion (Outward Turning)

    Ectropion refers to the outward turning of the eyelid margin. This condition almost exclusively affects the lower eyelid. The most common cause is age-related laxity of the eyelid ligaments and the tarsal plate, causing the lower eyelid to turn outward due to gravity.

  • Blepharochalasis (Drooping)

    Blepharochalasis is an age-related sagging of the upper eyelid skin. The excess eyelid skin can lead to a feeling of heavy lids and also to visual field restrictions.

  • Ptosis (drooping)

    Drooping (ptosis) of one or both eyelids is caused by paralysis of the eyelid elevator muscle, muscle weakness, or connective tissue weakness. Treatment of acquired ptosis depends on the underlying condition.

  • Hooded Eyelids (Upper Eyelid Lift)

    Drooping eyelids are commonly referred to as hooded eyelids. An upper eyelid lift is a surgical treatment for drooping eyelids. Hooded eyelids are primarily a functional issue—protecting the eye—as well as an aesthetic concern.

  • Lagophthalmos (Paralysis)

    In lagophthalmos, the affected individual cannot fully close their eye, which is often due to paralysis of the facial nerve. Lagophthalmos can be surgically corrected. Alternatively, treatment involves the use of ointments and a watch glass dressing.

Eyelid Surgery for the Correction and Tightening of Eyelids (Blepharoplasty)

Eyelid Surgery

Upper eyelid lifting enables a normal visual field and a clear facial expression.

Age-related conditions such as entropion, ectropion, dermatochalasis, blepharochalasis, and ptosis can be treated surgically.

Lagophthalmos, on the other hand, is corrected with the help of specialized glasses, ointments, and a nocturnal bandage.

Eyelid Complaints as a “Disease”

As we age, the skin of the eyelids also slackens, becoming more or less wrinkled. Upper eyelid lifts are also considered aesthetic surgeries.

Health insurance companies only cover the costs in selected cases—specifically when eyelids cause problems that have clinical significance.

For example, the lids must press on the cornea and the field of vision must be severely restricted, which must be documented by a visual field test.

Eyelid Corrections and Lifts (Blepharoplasty)

  • Natural Skin Aging and Eyelids

    The natural aging of the skin is a normal process and by no means pathological. The older we get, the drier and thinner the skin becomes. Wrinkles increasingly form, especially around the mouth and eyes. Skin aging develops individually. Illnesses or significant weight loss can accelerate skin changes. The visible aging process is based on […]

  • Eyelid Lift and Correction of Excess Skin

    The surgical procedure on the upper eyelid for a “drooping eyelid” involves the removal of excess skin, tailored to your individual needs. Depending on the findings, additional removal of protruding fatty tissue and a correction of the eyelid crease height may be necessary. Tightening the muscle surrounding the eye is often also beneficial to achieve […]

Appointments at Augencenter Wollishofen

If you cannot find an online appointment within a reasonable timeframe, please contact us by telephone.

Dr. med.
Dominique Mustur

Owner, Medical Director, Ophthalmologist, incl. Ophthalmic Surgery – FMH Specialist in Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Surgery

Scheduled Appointments (Terms Conditions):

If you are unable to attend your scheduled appointment, we kindly ask you to inform us as soon as possible. Appointments booked online can be canceled electronically up to 24 hours in advance. Unfortunately, appointments that are not canceled at least 24 hours in advance must be charged. An emergency surcharge may be applied to same-day appointments according to the valid tariff. Thank you for your understanding.