Entropion

What is entropion?

Normally the upper and lower eyelids rest comfortably against the surface of the eye. They help to protect the surface of the eye and keep it moist and lubricated. Entropion occurs when the eyelid (usually the lower eyelid) rolls in towards the eye. The edge of the eyelid and the eyelashes can rub against the surface of the eye and irritate it. If not treated, entropion can lead to long-term tearing problems and scarring of the surface of the eye.

How does it occur?

Different types of entropion occur from different causes:

• Involutional entropion occurs if the eyelid tissues become too loose and cause the lower eyelid to roll in. Eyelid tissues usually get looser as you get older.
• Cicatricial entropion occurs when scarring of the inner surface of the eyelid pulls on the edge of the eyelid and causes it to roll inward. Scarring can be caused by injury, surgery, or irritation from eyedrops.
• Spastic entropion occurs when irritation of the eye causes the muscles of the eyelid to squeeze tightly closed. This can cause the edge of the eyelid to roll in against the eye.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of entropion include:

• gritty feeling
• watery eyes
• decreased or cloudy vision
• discharge
• redness of the eyes

How is it diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, examine your eyes, and perform tests. Tests you may have are:

• an exam using a special microscope (a slit lamp) to look closely at your eye
• photographs to document the appearance of your eyelids and to help in your follow up care

How is it treated?

If you have mild entropion with few symptoms your healthcare provider may recommend treatment with artificial tear drops and ointment to keep your eye comfortable. In some cases you may be asked to try using tape to keep your eyelid from rolling in.

For more severe entropion your healthcare provider may put stitches in the eyelid to try to keep it from rolling in against your eye or may recommend surgery to tighten the eyelid. Your healthcare provider may also recommend the removal of several eyelashes to prevent them from irritating the surface of your eye. This can be done with special tweezers, heat treatment or laser treatment.

How long will the effects last?

If entropion is not treated, your eyelid and eye may become more irritated over time. Sometimes, entropion will come back after surgery, and you may need to have more than one surgery.

How can I prevent entropion?

Entropion cannot be prevented.