A minor procedure with major implications: eyelid margin hygiene in everyday ophthalmological practice Review article

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Published: Mar 31, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24292/01.OT.270726
Keywords:
blepharitis, ocular allergy, eyelid hygiene, cataract surgery

Main Article Content

Joanna Przybek-Skrzypecka
1. Department and Clinic of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw. 2. Independent Public Clinical Eye Hospital in Warsaw
http://orcid.org/0000-0002-7015-0931

Abstract

Blepharitis is one of the most common ophthalmic disorders and represents a significant clinical challenge due to its chronic course, recurrent nature, and frequent coexistence with dry eye disease. Proper eyelid hygiene is a fundamental component of the supportive management of ocular surface diseases, as it facilitates the removal of bacterial biofilm, secretions, desquamated epithelial cells, and allergens, thereby reducing chronic inflammation. In patients with allergic ocular surface diseases, regular eyelid cleansing supports tear film stability, improves meibomian gland function, and alleviates clinical symptoms. In conjunctivitis, eyelid hygiene reduces the microbial burden and promotes restoration of the ocular surface. In the perioperative setting, adequate eyelid preparation improves ocular surface health, reduces microbial colonization, enhances the accuracy of intraocular lens power calculations, and may decrease the risk of postoperative complications, including endophthalmitis. Current evidence indicates that regular eyelid hygiene is a safe, well-tolerated, and effective component of both the prevention and comprehensive management of ocular surface diseases.

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How to Cite
1.
Przybek-Skrzypecka J. A minor procedure with major implications: eyelid margin hygiene in everyday ophthalmological practice. Ophthatherapy [Internet]. 2026Mar.31 [cited 2026Oct.4];13(1):A0016. Available from: https://www.journalsmededu.pl/index.php/ophthatherapy/article/view/3561
Issue
Vol 13 No 1 (2026)
Section
Diagnostics

Copyright: Medical Education sp. z o.o. License allowing third parties to copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format and to remix, transform, and build upon the material, provided the original work is properly cited and states its license.

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