EPIBLEPHARON

Does your child have constantly red or watery eyes? The cause could be an in-turning of their eyelashes – a condition common in Asian children.

What is Epiblepharon?

Epiblepharon refers to an in-turning of the eyelashes in the presence of a normal eyelid position. This condition is typically seen in children and young adults of Asian descent. Affected patients have an abnormal congenital horizontal fold of skin near the upper or lower eyelid. This causes the eyelid lashes to be directed towards the eye surface. The constant rubbing of the lashes against the cornea can cause irritation of the cornea and lead to red eyes. In some cases, the cornea may even become scratched and scarred.

Example :
 
 
  Upper and lower lid lashes         Lashes rubbing against the cornea 
  touching the cornea                 causing scratches  
 

How do I know if my child has Epiblepharon?

Children with this condition often have the following symptoms:
• Itch and tearing
• Redness of the eyes
• Constant and frequent rubbing of eyes
• Photophobia (glare from bright lights)

What kinds of treatment are available for Epiblepharon?
 

Epiblepharon can be mild or severe and the treatment depends on the severity and the presence of corneal damage caused by the constant rubbing of the lashes against the cornea. Some children with mild epiblepharon can grow out of the condition. This occurs with maturation 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 removing a small area of excess skin and muscle just below the lid margin to help the lashes rotate outwards. There may be a faint line where the incision is made, but this usually becomes less obvious with time as seen in the photos below.

Example :
 
 
  Faint scar soon after surgery   Months after surgery where the
                                                 scar is no longer visible

Please visit the following relevant links :-

Oculoplastic & Aesthetic Eyeplastic Service
Outcome Results on Oculoplastic & Aesthetic Eyeplastic Procedures
Oculoplastic & Aesthetic Eyeplastic Clinical Staff
I Want an Eye Examination / an Appointment
Feedback

Read more on related Eye Conditions and Treatments:

Aesthetic Eyelid Surgery
Entropion
Orbital Disorders
Ptosis
Socket Reconstruction
Tearing Disorders
Thyroid Eye Disease