Entropion & Ectropion - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Eyelid Defects
Ectropion is an outward tilt of the edge of the lower eyelid. This is in contrast to entropion in which the eyelid edge tilts inward.
What is an ectropion and an entropion
What is ectropion?
Ectropion is an eyelid condition in which the lower eyelid curls outward and no longer rests properly against the eye. This can lead to irritation, dehydration and chronic tear flow because the tear film is not distributed properly and tears are not discharged correctly.
Causes of ectropion
- Aging: The skin and muscles around the eye sag, causing the lower eyelid to droop.
- Scars or skin damage: Trauma, burns or previous surgery can affect the structure of the eyelid.
- Chronic inflammation: Prolonged irritation or eye infections can lead to weakening of the eyelid muscles.
- Congenital abnormalities: In some cases, ectropion is present from birth.
- Neurological disorders: Nerve damage can affect eyelid muscle function.
Symptoms of ectropion.
✅ Excessive watering of the eyes (epiphora).
✅ Dryness and irritation of the eye
✅ Redness and burning sensation
✅ Sensitivity to wind and dust
✅ Increased risk of eye infections
Treatment of ectropion
In mild cases, artificial tears and eye ointment can help reduce irritation. In more severe forms, a surgical correction is needed, in which the lower eyelid is repositioned tighter against the eye. An ectropion correction is a minor procedure that improves comfort and prevents further eye problems.
What is entropion?
Entropion is an eyelid condition in which the lower eyelid curls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye. This can cause irritation, redness, watering eyes and damage to the cornea.
Causes of entropion
- Aging: The muscles and tendons around the eye slacken, causing the eyelid to turn inward.
- Scars or skin diseases: Skin damage from infections, burns or previous surgery can distort the eyelid.
- Eye infections: Prolonged irritation and inflammation can alter the eyelid structure.
- Congenital anomalies: In rare cases, entropion is congenital and occurs at an early age.
- Eyelid muscle spasms: Involuntary muscle contractions can pull the eyelid inward.
Symptoms of entropion
✅ An abrasive feeling in the eye
✅ Excessive watering of the eyes (epiphora)
✅ Redness and irritation
✅ Sensitivity to light and wind
✅ Chance of corneal damage and ulcers
Treatment of entropion
In mild cases, artificial tears and eye ointment can provide relief, but more severe forms require surgical correction. During an entropion correction, the eyelid is returned to its normal position, preventing further damage to the eye and restoring comfort.
Personalized advice from our eyelid surgeons
Our highly specialized surgeons do a thorough diagnosis and analysis of your eyes. They will discuss all options with you in complete objectivity.
Course of surgery of entropion and ectropion
Step 1: Preparation for entropion or ectropion correction
For successful correction of entropion or ectropion, a thorough pre-operative screening is essential. During this consultation, the surgeon assesses the patient's general health, the specific anatomy of the eyelids and any medical conditions that may affect the procedure or recovery. Aspects such as eyelid position, muscle function, excess skin and any scarring are carefully analyzed to create an optimal treatment plan.
In addition, your expectations and the result to be achieved are discussed. The surgeon explains the procedure, including the techniques used, possible risks and aftercare. If necessary, additional tests, such as a vision test or an ophthalmic checkup, may be performed to ensure that the procedure can take place safely and effectively.
Proper preparation contributes not only to faster recovery, but also to optimal functional and aesthetic results. This ensures that the correction of the inward or outward curling eyelid is permanent and successful.
Preoperative Requirements and Surgical Procedure for Entropion and Ectropion Correction
Preoperative Prescriptions
- Blood thinners: If you are taking blood-thinning medication, you should stop it in consultation with your doctor seven days before the procedure to prevent excessive bleeding during the surgery.
- Escort: On the day of surgery, you should not drive independently. We recommend providing supervision, as the use of sedation and local anesthesia may affect your responsiveness. The use of public transportation is not recommended.
Anesthesia
The correction of entropion and ectropion is usually performed under local anesthesia, possibly combined with a mild sedative for added comfort.
Surgical Technique
Correction of Ectropion
Correction of ectropion involves repositioning the eyelid to correct eye irritation and dehydration. The procedure is as follows:
- Skin resection: Following a precisely delineated pattern, excess skin is carefully removed. The resulting scar is usually minimally visible.
- Tarsus strengthening: The tarsus (support tissue of the lower eyelid) is strengthened and reattached to the lateral corner of the eye (canthus) to restore proper tension and position the eyelid correctly.
Correction of Entropion
Entropion correction focuses on restoring the natural position of the eyelid to prevent trichiasis (eyelash irritation) and damage to the cornea. Depending on the underlying cause, one of the following techniques is used:
- Eyelid tension restoration: If the problem is caused by muscle weakness or sagging skin, the lower eyelid is re-tightened and repositioned to restore its natural position.
- Mucosal graft (mucosal transplantation): With scarring and retraction, a mucosal graft is performed to make the eyelid flexible and provide permanent support for the correction.
After the procedure, the eyelashes are correctly positioned, eliminating the symptoms of trichiasis and better protecting the eye from irritation and dehydration.
Postoperative Guidelines and Aftercare for Entropion and Ectropion Correction
Recovery advice after surgery
To promote optimal recovery and minimize complications, we recommend strict adherence to the following guidelines:
- Head position: Avoid bending forward (for example, when tying laces) and lying completely flat. Sleep in the supine position with an extra pillow to reduce swelling.
- Rest and exertion: Avoid crowded environments and physical exertion that can raise blood pressure. Stable blood pressure contributes to a smooth recovery and reduces the risk of subsequent bleeding.
- Activities: Reading and watching television are allowed, provided the eye is not excessively stressed.
Aftercare and medication.
- Anti-inflammatory and analgesic medication: Follow the prescribed medication regimen to minimize discomfort and inflammation.
- Cooling: Use a gentle cooling method to reduce swelling, such as a washcloth moistened with cold water or a coldpack wrapped in a thick cloth. Avoid direct contact with ice on the skin.
- Eye drops and wound care: For one week, artificial tears and an antibiotic ointment should be applied to the treated area to prevent infection and promote the healing process.
- Removal of sutures: Sutures are carefully removed after one week during a checkup appointment.
By carefully following these guidelines, you will contribute to a smooth and comfortable recovery after your entropion or ectropion correction.
Price eyelid surgery
| Intervention | Price excluding VAT |
| Blepharoplasty of the upper eyelids | 1500€ |
| Blepharoplasty of the lower eyelids (Pinch) | 1490€ |
| Blepharoplasty of the lower eyelids (eyelid lifting + circle and shore treatment) | 2250€ |
| Ptosis | 1500€ |
| Chalasion | 150€ |
| Hordeolum | 150€ |
| Trichiasis | 950€ |
| The doctors at Focus Eye Clinic are unconventional | |
Our eyelid surgeons
Dr. Philippe Greant
Dr. Philippe Gréant is an experienced plastic and aesthetic surgeon with more than 30 years of practical experience. After 13 years of training at the University Hospitals of Brussels, he obtained his legal accreditation in plastic-aesthetic surgery. He also took additional training courses in France and the United Kingdom.
During his career, Dr. Gréant has developed a broad expertise in various techniques within plastic surgery, ranging from microsurgery and hand surgery to general plastic and aesthetic surgery. Today, he focuses primarily on aesthetic facial surgery, applying advanced techniques to achieve natural results.
Dr. Gréant is a member of the Belgian Society of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgery. In addition, he is a medical expert and sponsor of the Plastic Surgery Foundation. He also participates in humanitarian missions.
Dr. Karel Goyvaerts
Dr. Karel Goyvaerts is an experienced and dedicated ophthalmologist trained at the University of Antwerp. With a strong scientific background and years of practical experience, he is committed to providing patients with the best possible eye care. His analytical precision and patient-centered approach ensure that each treatment is precisely tailored to the individual needs of his patients. At Focus Eye Clinic, Dr. Goyvaerts strives to make complex eye problems clear and accessible. His friendly and professional approach makes him a trusted physician for patients from diverse backgrounds. His bilingualism in Dutch and French allows him to put a wide range of patients at ease. Dr. Goyvaerts continues to continually study the latest developments in ophthalmology and is a valued member of our team.
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