What is an entropion?

Entropion is the turning in of an edge of the eyelid, causing the eye lashes to rub against the eye.  The condition may cause the lid to turn in constantly or only when the eyes are tightly closed.  

Entropion usually results from ageing as the muscles around the eyes progressively weaken.  Other possible causes include injury, skin infections, congenital defect and a variety of inflammatory conditions.

You may develop entropion following facial surgery or as a result of facial scarring affecting the natural curve of the eyelid.

What does treatment involve?

 Eye drops can prevent the eye from becoming dry and may relieve symptoms however surgery is required to permanently correct the condition.

The brief surgical procedure repositions the eyelids under local anaesthetic or light sedation.  This may involve the removal of a small section of eyelid so as to tighten the muscles.  If the entropion is caused by scarring or prior surgery, a skin graft may be used to allow the repositioning of the eyelid.

What are the risks involved?

Surgery to correct entropion is generally a very safe operation.  Nonetheless, all surgery and anaesthetic have some risk associated.  Risks to all surgeries include infection, excessive bleeding, adverse reaction to anaesthetic or blood clotting.