Entropion is when the eyelid is turned in and the lashes touch the eye. This can occur due to a variety of conditions, however, stretching of the eyelid tendons from age is the most common reason entropion occurs. When entropion results in lashes touching the cornea, patients typically find the eye to be red, tearing, and irritated. Additionally, lashes constantly rubbing on the surface of the eye can lead to breakdown of the eye surface and infection.
Entropion repair is a surgical means of rotating the eyelid to turn away from the eyelid. It can be done by various techniques. Often, tightening of the stretched tendons in the lower and upper lids can assist with correction of the underlying problem. Dissolvable sutures are placed to hold the eyelid into position, which are broken down as the body takes over holding the support of the eyelid.
Entropion repair can be done in the office surgical suite under light sedation. Patients can return home immediately after the procedure and resume nearly all normal daily activities the very next day.