Entropion
Entropion (Inward Turning of the Eyelid): Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment
Entropion is a condition in which the eyelid turns inward toward the eye, causing the eyelashes and skin to rub against the ocular surface. This constant friction may lead to irritation, pain, tearing, corneal damage, and, if left untreated, serious vision-threatening complications.
At Özel Sistem Eye Medical Center, entropion diagnosis and treatment are performed by our experienced ophthalmology and oculoplastic surgery team using advanced functional eyelid surgery techniques designed to restore both eyelid anatomy and ocular surface health.
What is Entropion?
Entropion is an eyelid malposition disorder characterized by inward rotation of the eyelid margin.
As the eyelid turns inward, the eyelashes continuously contact the cornea and conjunctiva, creating chronic irritation and mechanical damage to the eye surface.
The condition most commonly affects the lower eyelid and is frequently associated with aging-related tissue laxity.
Causes of Entropion
Several conditions may contribute to the development of entropion, including:
- Age-related weakening of eyelid tissues and tendons
- Scar tissue formation after trauma, infection, or surgery
- Chronic inflammation or irritation
- Muscle spasm affecting eyelid position
- Congenital eyelid abnormalities
A detailed ophthalmic and oculoplastic examination is essential to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment approach.
Common Symptoms
Patients with entropion may experience:
- Foreign body sensation in the eye
- Persistent eye irritation and redness
- Excessive tearing (epiphora)
- Light sensitivity
- Eye pain or burning sensation
- Mucus discharge or crusting
- Blurred vision due to corneal irritation
Without treatment, continuous eyelash friction may result in corneal abrasions, infection, or corneal ulceration.
How is Entropion Treated?
Temporary conservative measures may provide short-term symptom relief in selected patients, including:
- Lubricating eye drops and ointments
- Protective contact lenses
- Eyelid taping techniques
- Botulinum toxin injections in selected cases
However, definitive treatment is generally surgical.
How is Entropion Surgery Performed?
Entropion surgery aims to restore the eyelid to its normal anatomical position and eliminate eyelash contact with the eye surface.
The surgical technique depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.
In age-related entropion, surgery commonly involves:
- Tightening of loosened eyelid tendons
- Repositioning of eyelid tissues and muscles
- Stabilization of the eyelid margin
In scar-related cases, reconstructive techniques or tissue grafting procedures may be required.
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and usually completed as outpatient surgery.
Recovery After Surgery
Recovery after entropion surgery is generally rapid and well tolerated.
Temporary swelling, bruising, mild irritation, or tearing may occur during the first several days after surgery. Cold compress application and regular use of prescribed medications help support healing.
Most patients experience immediate relief from eyelash irritation following correction of the eyelid position.
Possible Complications if Untreated
Untreated entropion may lead to serious ocular surface complications, including:
- Corneal abrasions
- Chronic keratitis
- Corneal ulceration
- Eye infections
- Permanent corneal scarring
- Vision loss in advanced cases
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to protect long-term eye health and vision quality.
When Should You Consult an Ophthalmologist?
Professional evaluation is recommended if you experience:
- Eyelashes rubbing against the eye
- Persistent tearing or redness
- Chronic eye irritation or pain
- Light sensitivity
- Visual discomfort caused by eyelid malposition
At Özel Sistem Eye Medical Center, our experienced ophthalmology and oculoplastic surgery team provides comprehensive evaluation and advanced surgical treatment for functional eyelid disorders using modern microsurgical techniques tailored to each patient's individual needs.