Last updated on
10 November 2025
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Eyelid conditions are among the issues that cause people to seek eyelid surgery in Singapore. They can affect individuals of all ages and can range from minor issues to ones that affect vision.
Recognising symptoms early is crucial for timely intervention with eyelid conditions. It can help prevent complications and improve outcomes.
This article provides a guide to common eyelid conditions, their effects, and the signs that one should seek treatment from a specialist.
The eyelids play an important role in eye protection. They keep the surface of the eye moist and help us maintain clear vision.
When the eyelids come down during a blink, it spreads tears evenly across the eye surface. This prevents dry eyes and irritation.
When something happens to alter the position or structure of the eyelid, function may be altered as well. It can lead to discomfort, blurry vision, or even possible eye damage in some cases.
Such risks demonstrate why eyelid health should not be ignored.
Ptosis refers to a condition where the upper eyelid droops unnaturally. It can affect one eye or both.
Causes of ptosis include age-related weakening of the eyelid muscles, nerve problems, congenital issues, or trauma to the eyelid.
Some of the common symptoms are the need to tilt the head back or raise one’s eyebrows to see more clearly from the affected eye. Severe cases may involve obstructed vision and eye strain due to the droopy eyelid.
Entropion happens when the eyelid turns inwards. This causes the lashes to rub against the surface of the eye, which can irritate or even damage it.
Most cases of entropion are related to age. However, the condition may also be caused by eye trauma (as a result of scarring), inflammation, or a previous surgery.
Patients often report symptoms such as eye redness, excessive tear production, and a gritty feeling in the eye. Left untreated, the condition can lead to complications like scratches on the cornea, infections, and visual problems.
This is the opposite of entropion. In ectropion, the eyelid turns outwards instead of inwards, causing the inner part of the eyelid to be exposed.
Possible causes of ectropion are age-related tissue loosening, scarring, and facial nerve weakening. The condition can lead to the patient suffering from excessive tear production, irritation, and eye dryness.
It can also lead to complications like infections and exposure keratopathy.
A stye is also called a hordeolum. This is a red, tender swelling on the eyelid and is often caused by infection of an oil gland.
The most common symptoms of styes are localised swelling and tenderness. One of the main complications to watch out for is the possibility of the infection spreading to the entire eyelid (blepharitis). Styes can also irritate the cornea.
A chalazion may be mistaken for a stye at times, but they are two different conditions. Chalazia (the plural form) are firm and often painless, unlike styes.
A chalazion appears when an eyelid oil gland is blocked. It may feel slightly tender, but not painful. It can grow slowly and eventually press on the cornea, which can impair vision.
Many eyelid conditions may appear mild, but they carry risks of complications. Moreover, there are certain warning signs that indicate prompt medical review is already advisable.
These are some of the signs that you should seek treatment for eyelid problems:
Diagnosis of eyelid conditions begins with a comprehensive eye examination from a healthcare professional.
At ERS Suntec City, our doctors will assess your eyelid structure, overall eye health, and whether other medical conditions are related to the issue.
Eyelid problem treatment options can often be broken up into these categories:
Recovery for eyelid condition treatment depends on the procedure.
Temporary swelling or bruising is common. Most patients can return to routine activities within days.
The exceptions are complex surgeries, which may require several weeks for recovery. Regular follow-ups can help monitor healing and prevent complications.
Eyelid conditions may be common, but they still carry risks of complications. Early diagnosis and treatment can often address such risks before they materialise.
See one of our doctors at ERS Suntec City for an assessment if you believe you have an eyelid condition. We can provide an evaluation and recommended treatment plans for you afterwards. Book a consultation today.
