Entropion/Ectropion Repair
Ectropion
Ectropion is a term used to describe when the eyelid turns out. This often causes eye irritation (due to dry eyes), skin irritation (dermatitis), and tearing (due to abnormal tear drainage). This can occur due to a range of conditions.
Common Causes of an Ectropion
- Age-related loosening of the eyelid
- Tight skin that pulls down the eyelid
- Weakening of the muscle that causes the lower eyelid to droop (usually seen with Bell’s Palsy or stroke patients)
Treatments for an eyelid that turns out range from tightening the lower eyelid to adding skin so that the eyelid is no longer being pulled down (skin grafting).
Entropion
Entropion is a term used to describe when the eyelid abnormally turns in, often causing the eyelashes to rub against and scratch the eye. If untreated, patients can develop an infection or permanent scarring of the cornea with a drop in vision. This condition often causes eye irritation, pain, redness, skin irritation (dermatitis), and reflex tearing. This can occur due to a range of conditions.
Common Causes of an Entropion
- Age-related loosening of the eyelid
- Scarring on the back of the eyelid
- Overactive muscles which typically help close the eye
Entropion treatment ranges from tightening the lower eyelid to removing the extra muscle causing over rotation of the eyelid.
Dr. Griessel performs each of these procedures at an outpatient hospital facility.