Conjunctivochalasis

Conjunctivochalasis is a common eye surface condition characterized by the presence of excess folds of the conjunctiva located between the globe of the eye and the eyelid margin

Between the eye and eyelid, is a layer of tissue called the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva extends from the edge of the cornea to the inside of the eyelids and acts like a pocket for holding a reservoir of tears that keeps your eyes lubricated.

For some people, this tissue can loosen or wrinkle with age, disrupting the normal process of keeping the eyes protected with tears. This condition is called Conjunctivochalasis or CCH. The excess conjunctiva fills the pocket previously filled by tears, moisture is forced out and dry eye can occur. The eyes can become severely irritated and red. The eyes can feel tired and in extreme cases vision may become impaired. Conjunctivochalasis is a problem that affects many patients but it is commonly looked as the cause of dry eyes in many cases. Since dry eye symptoms are usually the same regardless of the cause, a misdiagnoses may occur. Treatments for dry eyes, such as artificial tears or prescription medications will not resolve the effects of conjunctivochalasis because the condition prevents the eye from holding liquid medication. If signs of CCH are visible, your doctor may recommend the procedure to correct its effects. The most effective method for treatment of conjunctivochalasis is through a simple safe and relatively painless procedure to remove the excess tissue that is forcing tears away from the eye. After the incision is made, a membrane tissue is applied that restores the normal smooth surface of the eye and allows proper tears distribution.

With the new tissue in place, a reservoir of tears can form properly to keep the eye lubricated and reduce or eliminate the dryness caused by Conjunctivochalasis (CCH). When CCH is the cause of the dryness, physicians are able to provide their patients with a simple, yet highly rewarding solution by alleviating dryness and discomfort to make vision a comfortable experience again.

 

Conjunctival Chalasis is a common and frustrating eye problem that causes discomfort and pain. Chalasis refers to relaxation of muscles and tissues. Conjunctivochalasis (CCH) represents one of the most common age-related eye diseases and is characterized by the presence of redundant folds of the conjunctiva that typically are detected between the eyeball and the eyelids. It is commonly found along the lower lid margin and   mechanically interferes with the normal distribution of tears giving rise to unstable tear film (dry eye) and delayed tear clearance (epiphora).