Eyelid Defects

An eyelid defect means that part of the eyelid tissue is missing. This can happen for many reasons:

  • Some babies are born with it.
  • It can be caused by injuries or burns.
  • It can happen after surgery to remove eyelid cancer.

The size and the place of the defect decide how difficult the surgery will be. Doctors often use skin from the nearby area to fix the eyelid. Sometimes, they may take skin or tissue from:

  • the other eyelid,
  • behind the ear,
  • inside the mouth,
  • or other parts of the body.
The main goals of this surgery are:
  • to protect the patient’s vision,
  • to make sure the eyelid works properly,
  • and to improve the appearance of the eye.
Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the size and position of the defect. Doctors may use skin from nearby areas or take tissue from another eyelid, behind the ear, inside the mouth or other body parts. The goal is to protect vision, restore function and improve appearance.