Entropion

Entropion is an inward turning of the eyelid margin. As a result the lashes and eyelid skin abrade the eyeball causing pain. If untreated, the abrasions can cause ulceration, infection and scarring.

Entropion can be caused by progressive weakening of the eyelid muscles and tendons. This is most common in older patients.

Entropion is common in the Asian population and can be present from birth. It is caused by excess skin and muscle along the lower eyelid. If there are signs of corneal injury, surgery may be indicated.

Dr Stelmach performs Entropion surgery in hospital as a day case, under local anaesthetic and intravenous sedation ("twilight" anaesthetic, not a general anaesthetic).

Case 1 had entropion of the right lower lid causing pain and ulceration of the eye. The AFTER photo was taken 4 weeks after the operation. The wound under the lashes and the redness of the lower lid margin will fade completely.

Case 3 demonstrates entropion in an Asian patient. The AFTER photograph was taken 7 days following the operation. The tiny stitches can be seen under the lashes of the lower eyelids. The stitches are removed in the rooms with the aid of high magnification.

Entropion of the lower eyelid can cause:

• the eye to be sore, red and irritated
• mucous can be produced
• patients can be misdiagnosed and treated for conjunctivitis
• ulceration of the cornea/eye can occur causing:

• severe pain
• scarring
• cloudy vision
• may lead to blindness