Epiblepharon

Erosions on cornea due to the lashes

Epiblepharon refers to an in-turning of the eyelashes caused by an abnormal congenital horizontal fold of skin near the upper or lower eyelid. This condition is typically seen in children and young adults of Asian descent.

Symptoms:

The most common symptoms that these patients have are itch and redness of the eye, tearing, and children especially are noted to have frequent rubbing or blinking of the eyes. These symptoms arise due to the constant friction from the lashes which touch the clear surface of the eyes (cornea). If chronic, it can even lead to permanent scarring of the cornea.

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and whether there is evidence of permanent damage to the cornea surface. Some children with mild epiblepharon get better on their own as they get older. This occurs with growth and elongation of the facial structures. Mild cases can therefore be treated with lubricating eye drops or ointment. In severe cases, surgery may be required. Surgery involves stitches to turn the lashes out accompanied by the removal of a small amount of skin and muscle, through a small cut just beneath the lashes in the lower lid and through the double fold in the upper lid. In children, the surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia while in adults, it is usually performed under local anesthesia. Surgery usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour and some bruising and swelling is expected, which can last about a week.