For patients affected by eyelids that turn outward or inward, entropion or ectropion eyelid surgery may be recommended to correct the condition. At the Carlsbad laser eye surgery center of Dr. Paul Chen, North County Laser Eye Associates, eyelid surgery can be performed to address entropion and ectropion, as well as other eyelid issues.
What Is Entropion?
Entropion is a condition affecting the eyelid. In entropion, the eyelid turns inward so that the eyelashes and skin rub against the eye surface. Entropion generally affects the lower eyelid and is common among older adults. The condition can cause irritation and discomfort. The eyelid may be turned inward at all times or only when forcibly blinking or tightly squeezing the eyelids shut. Vision loss may result from the eyelashes and the skin of the eye rubbing up against the surface of the eye.
Symptoms of Entropion
Symptoms of entropion, include:
- Decreased vision
- Sensitivity to wind
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye pain
- Eye irritation
- The feeling of something being in the eye
- Eye redness
- Excessive tearing
- Excessive mucous discharge from the eye
- Eyelid crusting
Entropion Eyelid Surgery
While there are non-surgical treatments available, they are not as effective as entropion eyelid surgery. There are multiple surgical techniques that may be utilized to treat entropion. At Dr. Chen’s practice in Carlsbad, eye exams are performed to determine the best surgical technique for a patient’s unique eye needs. The surgical technique utilized during the procedure is dependent upon the cause of the patient’s entropion and the condition of the surrounding tissues. To tighten the tendons and muscles of the eyelid, a small part of the lower eyelid may be removed during surgery. Stitches will be placed on the outside corner of the eye or just below the lower eyelid.
What Is Ectropion?
Ectropion is a condition affecting the eyelid. In ectropion, the eyelid turns outward, causing the inner eyelid surface to be exposed. Typically, ectropion affects the lower eyelid and is more common in older adults. Ectropion leaves the inner eyelid surface exposed and prone to irritation. Only one segment of the eyelid may sag away from the eye, or the entire length of the eyelid may be turned outward.
Symptoms of Ectropion
Symptoms of ectropion, include:
- Excessive dryness
- A feeling of sand in the eyes
- Excessive tearing
- Eye irritation
- Burning in the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
Ectropion Eyelid Surgery
As with entropion, the surgical technique utilized to correct the ectropion will depend upon the cause of the ectropion and the condition of the tissues surrounding the eyelid. During surgery, a small part of the lower eyelid at the outer edge may be removed. Once the eyelid is sutured back together, the muscles and tendons of the eyelid will be tighter, allowing the eyelid to lie properly on the eye. Stitches may be placed just below the lower eyelid or on the outside corner of the eye.
Learn More about Entropion and Ectropion Eyelid Surgery
To learn more about entropion or ectropion eyelid surgery, call, visit, or email North County Laser Eye Associates today. Dr. Chen and his team look forward to serving all of patients’ eye care needs.
