Entropion & Ectropion

The eyelids are a delicate but essential factor in the overall health and comfort of your eyes.

When any part of the structure of the eyelid is compromised, the risk of infection or other eye issues increases, and you may experience painful symptoms. Entropion and ectropion are two types of issues that may affect the function and structure of the eyelids.

Ectropion:

The eyelid turns outward, away from the surface of the eye
Occurs more commonly in lower eyelids
More exposure to air causes irritation, dryness, discharge, redness, or issues with tear drainage
Increased risk of conjunctivitis or other infections

Entropion:

Eyelid and eyelashes turn inward
May cause damage to the cornea due to lashes scraping the eye while blinking
Eyelashes chafing the eyeball may cause persistent redness, irritation, and tearing
Increased risk of scarring, infection, ulceration, or even vision loss

What Are the Treatments for These Conditions?

There are a variety of nonsurgical and surgical options for treating entropion and ectropion. Although the nonsurgical treatments may relieve the symptoms temporarily, the most lasting results will come with surgery.

Depending on the symptoms, some conservative nonsurgical options would include lubricating eye drops, ointments, or even BOTOX injections combined with taping. In cases of entropion, contact lenses may be used to protect the cornea surface.

For long-lasting relief, eyelid surgery would repair the damaged tissues and restore the eyelids to their natural function, which would improve the overall health of the eyes.

blond woman in trench coat sitting on a chair with her legs crossed

Am I a Good Candidate?

While eyelid issues may not seem that important, when left for too long, they can create more serious problems that could be harder to repair. Treating the issues promptly can prevent any damage and restore your eyes to their optimal health. If you are noticing any unusual symptoms affecting your eyes, contact our office in Boulder today. As a board-certified ophthalmic plastic surgeon, Dr. Cox is skilled in advanced techniques to correct abnormalities or damage to the eyelids and restore them to their natural structure and function.

What Can I Expect from the Procedure?

In cases where a permanent correction of ectropion is desired, reconstructive eyelid surgery is the most effective route, and the specific surgical plan will depend on the exact manifestations of ectropion in the individual patient.

Dr. Cox will tighten and reposition the lower eyelid using incisions hidden along the crease of the eyelid to prevent visible scarring.

When treating entropion, lower eyelid surgery will realign the eyelid into its natural position. Some cases may necessitate a graft, and Dr. Cox will choose the most supportive procedure to achieve your desired goals. For patients who are not ideal surgical candidates, another method may be used, placing 2-3 sutures in strategic locations to turn the eyelid back out to its natural position and prevent the lashes from chafing the eye.

What Is the Recovery Like?

As with any surgery, some amount of bruising and swelling is normal and will subside after 1-2 weeks. Stitches are typically removed after this initial healing period. Patients are advised to use cold compresses and an antibiotic ointment during the first week post-surgery to reduce swelling and prevent infection.

The effects of both entropion and ectropion surgeries are immediately visible once the bruising and swelling lessen. It is advised that patients follow their aftercare instructions to aid in the healing process.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are noticing discomfort or anything unusual around your eyelids, contact Dr. Cox right away to schedule your consultation in Boulder, CO. Not only is she experienced in advanced surgical methods with specialty training for the delicate eye area, but she will also customize her treatment plan to suit your needs, so you can get back to feeling your best.