Ectropion and Entropion Repairs

Ectropion

Ectropion is an eyelid dysfunction that occurs when the lower eyelid turns outward and does not touch the eye. As a result, the conjunctiva can become exposed, red, and irritated. Ectropion can affect one or both of the lower eyelids.

Causes of Ectropion

  • Relaxation of eyelid tissues due to aging
  • Undetected skin cancers or skin diseases
  • Trauma
  • Contraction of scar tissue of the surrounding skin
  • Eyelid or facial surgery
  • Can occur secondary to facial nerve palsy

Symptoms of Ectropion Include:

  • Excessive tearing
  • Crusting of the eyelid
  • Mucus discharge
  • Infection
  • Corneal irritation
  • Sagging skin around the eye
  • Impaired vision
  • Redness and pain of the eye
  • Sensitivity to light and wind
  • Poor drainage of tears

Management:

Lubricating ointments and artificial tears can be used to moisten the cornea to prevent dryness of the cornea. When ectropion is caused by stretching of the eyelid’s supporting structures, surgery is the best treatment to repair the involved muscle and tendons of the eyelid. Depending on the cause of ectropion, surgery can be used to reposition the eyelid back to its normal position against the eye.

Entropion

Entropion is an eyelid dysfunction that occurs when the lower eyelid and eyelashes turn inward towards the eye causing the eyelid and lashes to rub against the cornea and conjunctiva.

Causes of Entropion

  • Relaxation of eyelid tissues due to aging changes
  • Infection or Scarring on the inner surface of the eyelid
  • Eyelid injuries or tumors

Symptoms of Entropion

  • Excessive tearing
  • Crusting of the eyelid
  • Mucus discharge
  • Corneal irritation
  • Sagging skin around the eye
  • Impaired vision
  • Redness and pain of the eye
  • Sensitivity to light and wind
  • Foreign body sensation

Management:

Several surgical procedures may be used to tighten the eyelid and eyelid attachments thus restoring some of its elasticity and repositioning it normally. Alternatively, tape or sutures can be used to reposition the eyelid and protect the eye temporarily. Lubricating drops and ointments are also helpful. Medications may also be used to control eyelid inflammation or irritation and to treat scars.

East China Office:
First building north of St. John River District Hospital
4050 River Road
East China, MI 48054
(810)329-9045
(810)329-5953 Optical

Fort Gratiot Office:
Located 1/4 mile north of Birchwood Mall
4656 24th Avenue
Fort Gratiot, MI 48059
(810)385-3600
(810)385-7200 Optical

Lexington Office:
Located in Port Huron Hospital Community Health Center
5730 Main Street
Lexington, MI 48450
(810)385-3600
(810)385-7200 Optical