Does Inner Eyelid Surgery Worsen Dry Eye Symptoms?

Q: Does Inner Eyelid Surgery Worsen Dry Eye Symptoms?

Hello, Miss Tu： Generally speaking, there should be no relation. <br>Tears are secreted from the outer upper part of the eye, while the eye bag surgery is performed on the lower part. <br>In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursda

Is there a relationship between lower eyelid surgery and dry eye syndrome?

Hello, doctor.
I underwent transconjunctival blepharoplasty last August.
My eye condition was fine before the surgery, but since the beginning of this year, I have been experiencing frequent eye inflammation, with redness and yellow-green discharge in the mornings.
After examination at the hospital, I was diagnosed with dry eye syndrome leading to corneal abrasion.
I would like to ask if the transconjunctival blepharoplasty could potentially exacerbate my dry eye syndrome.
Thank you.

Tu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/10

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Miss Tu: Generally speaking, there should be no relation.
Tears are secreted from the outer upper part of the eye, while the eye bag surgery is performed on the lower part.
In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; it is still necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2021/05/10

More Info

Inner eyelid surgery, commonly referred to as transconjunctival blepharoplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess fat from the lower eyelids without making an external incision. While this surgery can effectively improve the appearance of the eyes, there are potential complications and side effects that patients should be aware of, particularly concerning dry eye symptoms.

Dry eye syndrome is a condition characterized by insufficient lubrication of the eye, leading to discomfort, inflammation, and potential damage to the ocular surface. It can be exacerbated by various factors, including environmental conditions, prolonged screen time, and certain medical conditions. After eyelid surgery, patients may experience changes in tear production or distribution, which could lead to or worsen existing dry eye symptoms.

In your case, it is plausible that the inner eyelid surgery could have contributed to the exacerbation of your dry eye symptoms. The surgery may have affected the eyelid's ability to close completely or altered the normal distribution of tears across the ocular surface. Additionally, surgical trauma can lead to inflammation, which may further compromise the tear film stability.

The symptoms you describe, such as morning eye redness, yellow-green discharge, and corneal abrasion, indicate that your eyes are not adequately lubricated. This could be a direct result of the surgery, especially if there was any disruption to the normal functioning of the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of the tear film. If these glands are not functioning properly, it can lead to evaporative dry eye, which is a common issue following eyelid surgeries.

It is essential to address these symptoms promptly. You should consult with an ophthalmologist who specializes in dry eye management. They can perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the severity of your dry eye condition and recommend appropriate treatments. These may include:
1. Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help alleviate dryness and provide temporary relief.

2. Prescription Medications: If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops, such as cyclosporine A (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra), to help increase tear production.

3. Punctal Plugs: These are small devices inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage, thereby keeping tears on the surface of the eye longer.

4. Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene: Regularly applying warm compresses can help unclog meibomian glands and improve oil secretion, while eyelid scrubs can help reduce inflammation and debris.

In conclusion, while inner eyelid surgery is not directly linked to causing dry eye syndrome, it can certainly exacerbate pre-existing conditions or contribute to new symptoms. It is crucial to seek professional medical advice to manage your symptoms effectively and explore treatment options tailored to your needs. Additionally, maintaining good eyelid hygiene and using appropriate lubricating agents can significantly improve your comfort and eye health.

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