Blepharitis – Eyelid margin inflammation  

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid margin (the rim of the eyelid where the eyelashes are). Blepharitis is the most common eye condition. If the eyelids of 10 healthy people were examined carefully 7 of the 10 would have some degree of blepharitis. Most people don’t notice any problems relating to this inflammation because it is usually mild. Healthy eyelid margins sweep tears effectively over the surface of the eye and keep the eyes comfortable.

Blepharitis, however, can cause a number of problems: 

• Tear film instability  resulting in irritation (like something is scratching the eye), burning, itching and red eyes
• Dry eye symptoms are often exacerbated by blepharitis
• Reflex tearing: overproduction and overflow of tears due to irritation (watery eye)
• Punctal stenosis: narrowed tear duct openings can cause a watery eye
• Sticky eyes with lids matted together upon waking
• Red inflamed eyelid margins
• Infection of the eyelash follicles (stye)
• Cyst formation in the eyelid (chalazion)
• Loss of eyelashesInturning of the eyelid margins (entropion) resulting in painful rubbing of the eyelashes against the eyeball
• Corneal ulcer (marginal ulcer or marginal keratitis)  

What causes blepharitis?

There are 2 main types of blepharitis each having a different cause:

Anterior blepharitis: Dandruff-like flakes form along the bases of the eyelashes. Bacteria (staphylococcus) that live on everybody’s skin can cause anterior blepharitis in some people. Seborrheoic dermatitis (see below) can also cause these flakes to build up along the eyelid margin.

Your consultation

The success and safety of your eyelid surgery procedure depends very much on your complete candidness during your cosmetic eyelid surgery consultation. You'll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.

Please be prepared to discuss:

• Why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcome
• Medical conditions, drug allergies and previous medical treatments
• Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol & tobacco
• Previous surgeries

The following will also take place at your consultation

• Evaluation of your general health and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
• An assessment of your vision and a thorough eye examination including a slit-lamp examination of the eye.
• Photographs for your medical record
• A discussion about treatment options
• Recommendations for treatment most appropriate for you
• Discussion about likely outcomes of eyelid surgery and risks or potential complications
• The type of anaesthesia that will be used (This is usually “Twilight anaesthesia” using local anaesthesia with intravenous sedation administered by a consultant anaesthetist. However, a full general anaesthetic can be arranged if you prefer this option)

After the consultation I will send you a letter summarising your concerns and desires relating to your appearance along with my assessment and advice to you regarding treatment options.

You will also receive a quote for your proposed surgery and have the opportunity to attend for a further consultation prior to proceeding should you wish to ask any further questions.

Arrange a consultation