I had lasix surgery about three years ago. When the surgery was performed, my doc told me that I had some sluffing of the epithelial layer in both eyes. As it turns out one of the eyes has healed well. The other eye had a partial sluffing of the epithelial layer, and I need to wear a contact to prevent corneal erosions in that eye.
Recently I've developed infections under the eyelids, and have had a problems with blepharitis.

How do I get a handle on the blepharitis and underlying infection, and what are my options in regards to correcting the problem with the erosions?

There are many ways to respond to epithelial problems, but one is the use of an excimer laser. Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK) is the application of excimer laser energy across the cornea in an attempt to “reset” the epithelial attachment to the underlying cornea. The purpose is not to correct refractive error, and the intent is to not change refractive error.

You really need to be fully evaluated and discuss your options with a corneal specialist.

As for blepharitis, from our website:

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids. It is a very common condition that can be associated with a low grade bacterial infection (staphylococcal blepharitis) or a generalized skin condition (seborrheic blepharitis).

Blepharitis is seen most commonly in adults. Factors believed to contribute to blepharitis include abnormalities in oil gland function and an alteration in bacterial colonies that normally live on the skin. Blepharitis is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another.

People with blepharitis will have red eyelid margins and persistent ocular irritation, however there are other ocular problems that will have similar symptoms. An ophthalmologist can help definitively diagnose this condition by careful examination of the eyelid margins. In some instances, dry eye symptoms and underlying skin conditions can be associated with blepharitis.

The inflammation around the eyelids can be improved by increased lid hygiene. Gently scrubbing the eyelid margins with baby shampoo diluted with water can decrease the amount of flaking skin and oil in the area. A cotton tipped applicator or a washcloth wrapped around the index finger can be used to apply the shampoo. Warm compresses applied to the lids for several minutes a day can also be helpful. In some select cases, your ophthalmologist may also choose to prescribe an antibiotic ointment or drop.

Blepharitis is a chronic condition that often requires long-term treatment in order to prevent exacerbations.

Glenn Hagele
Council for Refractive Surgery Quality Assurance
http://www.USAeyes.org
http://www.ComplicatedEyes.org

I am not a doctor.