Laurence T Sperber

Repair of Conjunctivochalasis

Conjunctivochalasis is defined as nonedematous, redundant conjunctiva which can cause a wide range of symptoms related to the ocular surface and disruption of the tear film. Conjunctivochalasis causes symptoms by the mechanical action of the redundant conjunctiva interfering with tear flow and disruption of the tear film. This is a frequently overlooked condition as the symptoms are similar to those caused by the most common causes of ocular surface disease, dry eye and blepharitis, both of which are also associated with aging. On slit-lamp examination, one sees prolapse of the conjunctiva over the lower lid margin. It is most commonly seen temporally, but it can extend nasally as well. Once recognized, the indication for surgical correction is when the symptoms cannot be controlled by medical management of the ocular surface.