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Entropion

Specialist Care for Entropion Treatment and Restoring Comfort

Entropion is an inward turning of the eyelid, which causes the eyelashes to rub against the eye. This can lead to persistent discomfort, excessive watering, redness, and even long-term damage to the cornea. The condition most commonly affects the lower eyelid and is particularly frequent among older adults.
Although mild symptoms can sometimes be managed, surgery is usually required to correct the eyelid’s position and prevent any further complications.

Protect your eyesight, arrange an Entropion assessment today.

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Entropion becomes more common with age.

Entropion is primarily age-related, accompanied by the weakening of small muscles around the eye. Less commonly, this condition can also be caused by scarring, trauma, or other conditions that can affect the eyelid’s structural support.

In some cases, the position of the eyelid may worsen over time, leading to some more serious issues, including infection or ulcers developing on the cornea (corneal ulcer).

In the majority of cases where entropion is age-related, surgery is very effective in correcting the issue. Our oculoplastic surgeons perform a detailed assessment to identify the cause of the entropion and recommend the most appropriate treatment to restore the eyelid’s natural alignment.

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Definition of Entropion

What is Entropion?

Entropion is the inward turning of the lower eyelid. This unusual position typically causes the eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye, producing irritation and pain, which can worsen with blinking or eye movement.

This condition often progresses gradually, starting with infrequent symptoms and eventually becoming persistent. Without treatment, it can result in infections or ulcers on the cornea, which consequently can affect your vision.

Causes

Causes of Entropion

The most frequent cause of entropion is age-related weakening of the eyelid’s supporting muscles. As the small muscles around the eye lose elasticity over time, the lower eyelid may start to roll inward.

Congenital entropion, although rare, may be present from birth.

Whatever the underlying cause, it’s important to address entropion promptly to avoid damage to the cornea and any serious complications.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Entropion

  • A sensation of something in the eye
  • Redness
  • Irritation
  • Watery eyes

These symptoms can range from mildly irritating to severely painful, depending on how far the eyelid has turned inward and how long it has been left untreated.

Treatment

Treatments for Entropion

The primary treatment for entropion is surgical correction, which is typically performed as a day case under local anaesthetic. The goal of surgery is to restore the eyelid to its normal position so that it no longer turns inward and rubs against the eye.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision just below the eyelashes to access and tighten the eyelid’s underlying tissues. The eyelid is carefully repositioned, restoring its normal outward-facing posture.

The sutures are removed after one week, and most patients notice immediate relief from their symptoms.

We provide expert diagnosis and customised treatment plans for all types of entropion, helping patients regain comfort, vision, and confidence. Speak with our team to learn more about the options available to you.

Resources

Download More On Entropion With Our Useful Guide

Frequently asked questions

Entropion is a medical condition in which the eyelid (usually the lower lid) folds inward. It is usually uncomfortable, as the eyelashes continuously rub against the cornea causing irritation.

  • correction of abnormal position of eyelid
  • improved cosmetic appearance
    improved symptoms of excessive tearing, crusting of the eyelid, discharge and eye discomfort
  • reduced chances of sight-threatening corneal infection

If you choose not to have this surgery, the eyelid position and symptoms are unlikely to improve spontaneously. In some cases there is a possibility of damage to the cornea from exposure or from eyelashes that may result in sight-threatening corneal infections or scarring.

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