Understanding Dermatochalasis

When considering your eyes and eye health, it’s important to remember that some conditions that may affect your vision de

velop outside or around your eyes rather than within them. One such condition is ptosis, where the upper eyelids begin to droop, sometimes to the point that they interfere with one’s ability to see and carry out daily tasks properly.

Ptosis, however, is not the only condition that can interfere with a patient’s eyesight. A similar issue, dermatochalasis, can also cause problems and may even require medical intervention in some cases. Understanding how to treat dermatochalasis early can help prevent complications and preserve your vision. Because of this, it’s important for everyone to understand what this condition entails and what to do should they find that they need treatment. 

About Dermatochalasis

“Dermatochalasis” describes a condition where the elastic tissues and fibers underneath of the skin around our eyes are unable to maintain their elasticity and so lose the ability to hold on to their normal shape and structure. As this happens, our skin tissues will begin to stretch and expand, creating excess skin that hangs or droops downwards; this loss of elasticity also often leads to thinning of the skin, wrinkling, and/or drooping.

This condition is sometimes called “baggy eyelids” outside the medical community. Symptoms of baggy eyelids often include a tired appearance, loose skin, and occasional vision obstruction. However, while general cases of “baggy eyelids” are not particularly uncommon, extreme cases of dermatochalasis can still be problematic. In some cases, dermatochalasis can lead to brow aches. Like ptosis, dermatochalasis can also potentially interfere with one’s ability to see properly if it develops on the upper eyelid. Unlike ptosis - where the drooping occurs due to muscle problems - dermatochalasis occurs over time and often does so due to the natural side effects of aging.

Symptoms Of Dermatochalasis

Dermatochalasis, also known as 'baggy eyelids,' can present with various symptoms including:

• Excess skin on the upper or lower eyelids.
• Tired or aged appearance around the eyes.
• Drooping or sagging of the eyelid skin.
• Wrinkling or thinning of the skin around the eyes.
• Brow aches, especially in severe cases.
• Interference with peripheral vision, particularly if the excess skin affects the upper eyelids.

Causes of Dermatochalasis

Dermatochalasis is caused by a loss of elasticity in the healthy connective tissue supporting the structure of the front portion of the eyelid. This loss of elastic tissue can be attributed to natural aging processes, including the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers that provide support and structure to the skin.

Other factors that may contribute to the development of dermatochalasis include:

• Genetic predisposition.
• Chronic sun exposure and UV damage.
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Poor skincare habits.

Treating Dermatochalasis

Dermatochalasis can’t be prevented, but there are steps that anyone and everyone can take to reduce its progression. Since dermatochalasis is a skin aging issue, these steps revolve around one theme: good skin care.

To reduce your own risk of developing dermatochalasis, make sure that you:

• Do not over-wash your face, as this can create more skin problems
• Keep your skin well moisturized - this will help keep it healthy
• Avoid smoking and excessive drinking, which can damage your skin
• Use sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and avoid spending more time in the sun than necessary to prevent some aging-related skin issues

If you're exploring how to manage dermatochalasis with skincare, a consistent routine that includes sun protection, moisturization, and antioxidant-rich products is essential. As mentioned earlier, the development of dermatochalasis - baggy eyelids - is normal, especially if you’re over the age of 50. But the condition should not interfere with your ability to live a normal life. If it does, you should speak with your eye doctors about eyelid surgery - or blepharoplasty treatments, which remove the problematic excess skin.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing dermatochalasis, including:

• Aging, as skin elasticity naturally decreases over time.
• Family history of dermatochalasis or other skin-related conditions.
• Prolonged and repeated sun exposure without protection.
• Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of dermatochalasis is typically made through a comprehensive eye examination by an eye care professional. They will assess the physical symptoms and inquire about any potential vision concerns or discomfort.

In some cases, additional diagnostic tests, such as visual field testing, may be performed to evaluate the extent of vision obstruction caused by the excess eyelid skin.

Management

While dermatochalasis cannot be prevented, effective management strategies can help reduce its impact and improve quality of life. Some management options include:

• Good skin care practices, such as gentle cleansing, regular moisturization, and sun protection.
• Habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to skin damage and accelerate aging.
• Using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to alleviate dryness or discomfort caused by the condition.
• Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty surgery) may be recommended in severe cases when dermatochalasis significantly interferes with vision or daily activities.  There are two main types: upper eyelid blepharoplasty and lower eyelid blepharoplasty.
  • Upper blepharoplasty focuses on removing excess skin, muscle, and orbital fat from the upper lids to improve sagging and drooping. It can also address issues like brow ptosis (droopy brows) that contribute to dermatochalasis.
  • Lower eyelid blepharoplasty, on the other hand, targets the lower eyelid and aims to reduce under-eye bags and improve fine lines. This procedure may involve an incision below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival approach).

Prioritizing Your Eye Health with Everett & Hurite Eyecare Specialists

While some stretching and drooping of the skin can be expected as we all age, cases where these developments interfere with your ability to see and live a normal life should not be ignored. By taking care of your skin now, you may be able to retard the development of severe dermatochalasis. If you ever notice the skin around your eyes sagging more than you’d expect, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor immediately. 

At Everett & Hurite Eyecare Specialists, we understand dermatochalasis's impact on your vision and overall quality of life. Our team of experienced eye care specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care and tailored treatment options to address your specific needs.

You can take proactive steps toward maintaining optimal eye health by scheduling an appointment with us. Our experts will evaluate your condition, recommend appropriate treatments, and guide you through the process to achieve the best possible outcome.

Don't let dermatochalasis hinder your visual potential and well-being. Contact Everett & Hurite Eyecare Specialists today to schedule your consultation. Together, we can work towards improving your eye health and enhancing your quality of life.

When is Eyelid Surgery Necessary?

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, becomes necessary when dermatochalasis significantly impacts a person’s quality of life. While mild cases often present cosmetic concerns, severe dermatochalasis can obstruct vision, particularly peripheral vision, making everyday tasks like reading, driving, or even walking more challenging. If you find that excess eyelid skin is hindering your ability to see clearly, it may be time to consult an eye care specialist about surgical options.

• Persistent vision obstruction: due to drooping upper eyelid skin.
• Difficulty keeping the eyes fully open: causing strain or brow aches.
• Interference with daily activities: such as reading or driving.

Blepharoplasty is a safe and effective procedure that removes excess skin and restores both function and appearance, offering relief and improving quality of life. Wondering when should you have eyelid surgery for dermatochalasis? It's time to consider it if you're experiencing vision loss, brow strain, or functional limitations due to excess eyelid skin.

Risks of Dermatochalasis and Its Effects on Vision

Dermatochalasis, or the drooping of eyelid skin, poses more than just cosmetic concerns—it can also lead to significant vision impairment if left untreated. The excess skin folds caused by this condition can obstruct peripheral vision, making it difficult to perform day-to-day activities like driving, reading, or even navigating crowded spaces. Vision impairment from dermatochalasis often worsens over time, underlining the importance of early detection and management.

• Peripheral vision loss: due to overhanging skin that blocks the visual field.
• Eye strain and brow aches: from overcompensating to keep the eyelids raised.
• Difficulty focusing on tasks: requiring precision, such as reading or crafting.

Understanding these risks is crucial for addressing the condition promptly and maintaining visual health. An eye care specialist can determine the best course of action, such as eyelid surgery, to alleviate these challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions