What is upper eyelid exposure?

Upper eyelid exposure occurs when the upper eyelid is unable to fully cover the eye, causing the cornea and the surrounding tissues to become exposed. This can result in symptoms such as dryness, irritation, redness, tearing, and sensitivity to light.

Causes of upper eyelid exposure can include age-related changes in the eyelid structure, conditions such as ptosis (drooping of the eyelid) or ectropion (outward turning of the eyelid), lid retraction from Graves' disease, or scarring from previous surgeries or trauma.

Treatment for upper eyelid exposure may involve lubricating eye drops or ointments to reduce dryness and irritation, eyelid taping or patching to help the eyelid fully cover the eye, or surgical interventions such as eyelid tightening or repair procedures.

It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of upper eyelid exposure, as untreated exposure can lead to corneal damage and vision problems. A healthcare provider can properly diagnose the underlying cause of the exposure and recommend appropriate treatment options.