The eyelids are two structures, an upper mobile lid and a lower, les mobile lid. They play a protective role and help spread a tear film over the cornea that allows us to see correctly. Eyelashes act as an extension of the eyelids, acting as sensors for foreign bodies.

Interventions in the eyelids comprise the correction of congenital malformations and malpositioning, resection of benign or malignant tumor masses, the repair of traumatic sequelae, and functional or cosmetic procedures aimed at facial rejuvenation.

The eyelid may be totally or partially absent at birth, and this condition requires surgical treatment. Colobomas may affect one eye or both.

In 60% of all lid ptosis cases, the upper eyelid appears to be drooping since birth, although there are also acquired cases. In both situations, treatment is almost always surgical. Not all cases of ptosis require the same kind of surgery and, for this reason, it is important to classify them in order to select the right surgical technique. There are a few cases that do not lend themselves to surgery and they are followed by observation.

The condition where the lower eyelid is turned outward is called ectropion. In this situation, the exposed conjunctiva becomes irritated, giving rise to tearing and a burning sensation. It is seen at birth in association with a rare condition called Blepharphimosis Eurhyblepharon Ichthyosis Syndrome. The vast majority of ectropion cases are acquired and are associated with weakness of the palpebral structures and of the skin of older people. It requires surgical correction and several surgical techniques can for this purpose, depending on the severity of the condition.

Ectropion may also occur because of scarring, in particular in people with chemical or sunburns, or in cases of badly sutured wounds. In these cases, the pulled skin causes the eyelid to turn outward, leading to problems such as corneal dryness. It requires surgical correction.

There is also a paralytic form of ectropion that occurs as a result of facial nerve paralysis. Blinking is prevented and the eye is left without protection, subject to a potentially severe corneal damage. It may be observed at birth or it can be acquired (Bell’s paralysis), or secondary to tumors or injuries. It requires surgical correction.

The condition where the lower eyelid is turned inward is called entropion. In this situation, the lid skin may come into contact with the eye, giving rise to tearing, mucus discharge and foreign body sensation, and potentially affect vision. It may be seen at birth (epiblepharon) or as a result of aging. It requires surgical treatment.

The eyelids may sustain blows and wounds in automobile accidents, fights, sports, etc. These injuries must be dealt with appropriately in order for the eyelids to be able to play their protective role.