See the oculoplastic surgeon in our Melbourne facilities for relief from drooping eyelids and watery eyes

Watery Eyes

Also known as epiphora, the unexpected overflow of tears from the eye can be both bothersome and socially embarrassing. While most people will experience unexpected tearing from temporary circumstances such as allergy or irritation from a foreign particle in the eye at some point in their lives, for some patients, constant epiphora can be a significant and ongoing annoyance.

There are several causes of epiphora and some patients may present with more than one contributing factor. Counterintuitively, many cases of the watery eye are in fact due to dry eye. As the protective tear film over the surface of the eye thins and dissipates in a dry eye, the exposure of the sensitive cornea to the environment can trigger a reflex to the lacrimal gland to release more tears. An overproduction of tears results in the eye feeling watery.

Poor eyelid positioning or narrowing and blockage of the tear duct system can also cause epiphora. Movement and drainage of the tears produced on the surface of the eye are dependent on the eyelids being properly positioned against the eye and the ability to blink effectively, as this motion moves tears towards the small holes at the inner corners of the eyelids known as puncta. Loose eyelids, weak blinking, or blockages in the ducts of the nasolacrimal system can inhibit the normal drainage of tears from the eye’s surface, leading to an overflow.

We are well equipped for oculoplastic surgery in our Melbourne rooms with the facilities to surgically manage epiphora cases where appropriate, or by comprehensive dry eye management with referral to our dry eye clinic at Eye Laser Specialists in Armadale.

Eyelid Disorders

Poor positioning and function of the eyelids can result not only in epiphora as described above but various other symptoms including chronic eye irritation, red eyes, visual impairment, and even permanent corneal scarring in severe cases.

Ectropion is the outward drooping of the lower eyelid while entropion refers to the inward turning of the eyelid. Both conditions can irritate the eye’s surface, either by failing to adequately cover and protect the sensitive moist surfaces of the eye and lids as is the case of ectropion, or by bringing the eyelash line into contact with the delicate cornea in the case of entropion. Ptosis refers to the involuntary drooping of the upper eyelid, and in severe cases can even hinder vision on the affected side. These conditions are often best addressed with surgical management to correct the eyelid position.

Patients looking for relief from bothersome or potentially dangerous eyelid conditions are welcome to come under the care of our experienced oculoplastic specialist. Call us now to arrange your appointment.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.