Evaluation of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of dermatochalasis patients: A retrospective epidemiologic study in a tertiary care eye clinic

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate systemic and environmental risk factors, clinical findings and surgical trends in patients admitted to our clinic with the diagnosis of dermatochalasis. METHODS: Between January and March 2024, 114 patients with upper eyelid dermatochalasis were retrospectively analyzed cross-sectionally. Demographic data, history of systemic disease, surgical history, presenting complaints, tear tests (Schirmer, tear breakup time (TBUT)) and dermatochalasis grades were recorded. RESULTS: In the patient cohort, females constituted 66.66%, with a mean age of 53.08±6.35 years. The predominant complaint was a sensation of heaviness or fatigue in the upper eyelid, as reported by 41.22% of the patients. A substantial 70.17% of the participants presented with at least one systemic illness, with diabetes mellitus, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and rheumatologic diseases being the most common. Symptoms of dry eye were observed in 31.57% of the patients, with an average Schirmer test result of 11.03±3.07 mm and a TBUT of 5.87±1.86 seconds. No significant correlation was found between Schirmer and TBUT values and the severity of dermatochalasis (p>0.05). Among the patients, 37.71% were considering surgery, with 65.11% seeking it for cosmetic reasons and 34.88% for functional purposes. CONCLUSION: Dermatochalasis is a complex condition associated with functional and systemic effects and aesthetic problems. A history of systemic disease, dry eye symptoms and visual field limitation should be considered in managing the disease. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach should be adopted, and patient expectations should be considered in treatment planning. Prospective studies with a large sample size may better elucidate the etiopathogenesis and patient management.