Dermatochalasis is a common age-related condition where excess skin and tissue develop on the upper or lower eyelids, causing them to appear heavy, droopy, or sagging. In some people, this extra skin can hang over the eyelid margin, giving a tired appearance and, in more severe cases, interfering with side or upper vision. Dermatochalasis is usually not harmful, but when it affects vision, comfort, or daily activities, surgical treatment such as blepharoplasty can be considered. 

Ptosis is a condition where the upper eyelid droops because the muscle that lifts the eyelid (the levator muscle) is weak or not working properly. This causes the eyelid margin itself to sit lower than normal and can partially cover the pupil, affecting vision and giving the eye a sleepy or uneven appearance. Ptosis can be present from birth or develop later due to ageing, nerve problems, injury, or previous eye surgery.

Dermatochalasis, by contrast, is caused by excess loose eyelid skin rather than a muscle problem. In dermatochalasis, the eyelid margin is usually in the correct position, but redundant skin folds over it, creating a heavy or hooded look. While both conditions can affect vision and appearance, ptosis involves eyelid muscle function, whereas dermatochalasis is primarily a skin and tissue laxity issue, and they are treated with different surgical approaches.

Ectropion is a condition where the lower eyelid turns outward and away from the eye, exposing the inner eyelid surface. This can cause watering, irritation, redness, dryness, and a gritty or burning sensation because the eye is no longer properly protected or lubricated. Ectropion most commonly occurs with ageing but can also result from facial nerve weakness, scarring, or previous surgery, and treatment may include lubricating eye drops or surgery to restore the eyelid to its normal position. 

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid, usually the lower eyelid, turns inward toward the eye. This causes the eyelashes and skin to rub against the surface of the eye, leading to irritation, redness, watering, light sensitivity, and pain. Entropion most commonly occurs with ageing but can also result from scarring, muscle imbalance, or previous eye disease, and treatment may involve temporary measures or surgery to correct the eyelid position and protect the eye. 

Eyelid cancers are abnormal growths that develop on the skin of the eyelids, often related to sun exposure, and may appear as a lump, sore, ulcer, or non-healing lesion. The most common type is basal cell carcinoma (BCC), which usually grows slowly and rarely spreads but can cause local damage if untreated. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is less common but more aggressive and has a higher risk of spreading, while melanoma is rare but serious, often appearing as a dark or changing pigmented lesion. Sebaceous gland carcinoma is an uncommon but potentially aggressive cancer arising from oil glands of the eyelid and can mimic benign conditions, making early specialist assessment and treatment essential. 

Epiphora is the medical term for excessive watering of the eyes, which occurs when tears either overflow or do not drain properly. Common causes include blockage of the tear drainage system (such as a blocked lacrimal duct), narrowing or malposition of the tear openings (punctal problems), eyelid conditions, or over-production of tears due to irritation or dry eye. Identifying the underlying cause is important, as treatment may range from eye drops to procedures that open the punctum, place a stent, or surgically bypass a blocked tear duct to restore normal tear drainage.