Eyelid Surgery Newcastle | Mr Chris Matthews Consultant Ophthalmologist

Specialist Eyelid Surgery

Many people find that their eyelids cause increasing problems as they get older. A drooping upper eyelid, a persistently watering eye, or an eyelid that turns in or out may seem like a minor inconvenience at first, but over time these conditions can significantly affect comfort, vision and quality of life.

If something about your eyelids has been troubling you, you are in the right place. I am a Consultant Ophthalmologist and Oculoplastic Surgeon based in Newcastle, and I specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of eyelid and tear duct conditions. This is my area of expertise, and I see patients with these problems every day.

Book Appointment

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A specialist you can talk to

I know that coming to see a surgeon for the first time can feel daunting, particularly if you are not sure what is wrong or whether anything can be done. I want to reassure you that my approach is unhurried, straightforward and friendly.

I will listen carefully to what has been bothering you, explain clearly what I think is causing the problem, and discuss the options available to you in plain language without jargon, and without any pressure to proceed with treatment. If surgery is not the right answer, I will tell you so honestly.

Many of my patients tell me that they wish they had come sooner. Most eyelid conditions are very treatable, and a straightforward consultation is often all it takes to understand what is happening and what can be done.

Conditions I treat

I see patients with a wide range of age-related eyelid problems, including:

Drooping upper eyelids (ptosis) — where the eyelid falls lower than normal, sometimes affecting vision
Excess upper eyelid skin (dermatochalasis) — where loose, overhanging skin causes heaviness and visual obstruction
Inward turning lower eyelids (entropion) — where the lashes rub against the eye causing irritation and watering
Outward turning lower eyelids (ectropion) and watery eyes — where the eyelid sags away from the eye, disrupting tear drainage
Drooping eyebrows (brow ptosis) — where a descending brow adds to the heaviness around the upper eyelids
Eyelid lumps, cysts and skin growths — including benign cysts and skin tags, as well as careful assessment for less common growths

Day case surgery under local anaesthetic

All procedures are performed at the Newmedica Eye Clinic in Newcastle upon Tyne, a modern, comfortable, purpose-built facility. Every operation is carried out as a day case under local anaesthetic, meaning you will be awake but completely comfortable throughout, and will be able to go home the same day.

The procedures I perform are well established, generally well tolerated, and can make a significant difference to comfort, vision and everyday life.

Based in Newcastle, treating patients across the North East

I was born, raised and trained in the North East, and I have spent my entire career here. I am an NHS Consultant Ophthalmologist at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, and I offer private consultations and surgery for patients who would prefer not to wait for NHS treatment.

I see patients from across Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, Durham, Teesside and the wider North East region.

Arranging a consultation

If you would like to discuss your eyelid concerns, I would be very happy to see you. Appointments are straightforward to arrange and I aim to offer them promptly. You do not need a GP referral to book a private consultation, though many patients do come with one.