Entropion is the condition in which the eyelid, usually the lower one, turns inward, causing the skin and eyelashes to touch and irritate the cornea. It can occur intermittently or be permanent, or it can occur when the patient closes their eyes tightly.
Entropion is usually caused by aging, which leads to a loss of strength in the eyelid muscles. Spasm or relaxation of the muscles around the eyelids can lead to entropion. Other causes of entropion include injury, congenital abnormalities, or inflammatory conditions. Patients who have had facial surgery or have facial scars that disrupt the normal curve of the eyelids are at greater risk for entropion.
Moisturizing eye drops can reduce the symptoms of entropion, such as dry eyes. Temporary relief from symptoms can also be provided by Botox or special adhesive tapes (steri-strips) that hold the eyelids in their correct position, or even special stitches placed in strategic places for the same purpose. However, the only permanent solution is surgery, in which the eyelids are placed in their correct position.
The area is numbed with a local anesthetic. For entropion caused by muscle weakness, surgery involves removing a small portion of the eyelid to tighten the muscle in the area. When entropion is caused by scarring or previous surgery, a skin graft may be needed to reposition the eyelid.
It is the condition in which the eyelid, usually the lower one, turns outward. Due to the outward rotation of the eyelid, the conjunctiva and the inner part of the eyelid are exposed either partially or in its entire extent. This leads to the inability of proper drainage of tears, resulting in irritation and tearing. The most common causes of ectropion are age-related loosening of the collagen around the eyelids, sun damage, tumors, burns or the removal of more skin than necessary during blepharoplasty. In some cases, ectropion may be congenital or the result of facial nerve palsy.
Moisturizing drops can reduce the symptoms caused by ectropion, such as dry eyes from corneal exposure. However, the only permanent solution is surgery, in which the eyelids are placed in their correct position.
The area is numbed with a local anesthetic. For ectropion caused by muscle weakness, surgery involves removing a small portion of the eyelid to tighten the muscle in the area. When the ectropion is caused by scarring or previous surgery, a skin graft may be needed to reposition the eyelid.