Entropion (eyelid turned in) Repair

An entropion occurs when an upper or lower eyelid is turned in with the skin or eyelashes rubbing against the surface of the eye.  This rubbing creates irritation, discomfort, redness, and sensitivity to sunlight, and it may lead to excessive tearing.  If left untreated, an entropion may lead to damage to or infection of the eye with the potential for vision loss.  An entropion may have a number of causes, but the most common reasons for the development of an entropion are the gradual loosening of the tissues and changes to the anatomy of the eyelids that occur with aging.  

There are temporary treatments that may help to alleviate the symptoms of or complications resulting from an entropion.  These therapies include treating with a lubricating or antibiotic eye ointment, or placement of temporary stitches.  However, the definitive way of repairing an entropion is with an outpatient surgical procedure that will return the anatomy to more appropriate and natural position.  This procedure is performed with local anesthesia and light sedation.