Entropion

The in-turning of the eyelid causing the eyelashes to rub against the eye is called entropion. It can affect upper or lower eyelid, and is caused by laxity of the eyelid tissues, chemical injury, or eye surface disorders and may produce tearing, infection, vision impairment, and damage to the cornea. Repair of the supporting structures of the eyelid by an Oculoplastic surgeon can correct this problem.


Inturning of the lower eyelid (entropion) can be due to several reasons, but is treatable with simple eyelid surgery.

Surgical Technique:
In the upper eyelid, surgery involves incision on the back surface of the eyelid to correct the inturning, and allow it to heal in an out-turned manner with the help of temporary sutures. In the lower eyelid, it is commonly caused due to aging and laxity of tissues, and needs simple tightening of the supporting structures of the eyelids (retractors).

Surgical Time and Recovery:
Eyelid Surgery is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia and takes about 45 minutes. Discomfort is minimal, and stitches are removed in 5-7 days. Most patients are back to light work within a week. Minimal bruising may persist for 1-2 weeks.

Note:
Severe cases with history of past surgeries may need mucous membrane graft (taken from the inside of your cheek or lip), cartilage graft or more complex eyelid reconstructive procedures. Despite a successful surgery, occasional abnormal lash might require removal by electrolysis. Entropion surgery may be combined with mucous membrane graft, amniotic membrane graft, electrolysis, or complex eyelid reconstruction in severe cases.

Insurance:
Health insurance will cover the costs of entropion surgery, since it is a functional surgery.

Other Procedures:
Other commonly performed reconstructive procedures include correction of Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty), Ectropion, Eyelid Drooping, Eyelid and Skin cancer reconstruction, Facial Spasms, Facial Paralysis, Watering Eyes, Thyroid Eye Disease, Orbital Surgery, and Trauma and Maxillofacial Surgery.