Entropion (Inward-Turning Eyelid)
An eyelid that turns inwards: symptoms, surgical treatment and recovery.
An eyelid that turns inwards is called “entropion”. It usually affects the lower eyelid and, very rarely, the upper lid. Entropion is most often caused by age-related laxity of the eyelid, but it can also be due to scarring or be present from birth.
Symptoms of Entropion
- The eyelid turning inwards
- Stinging, watering and redness of the eye
Entropion is treated surgically, and the operation can be done with various techniques.
Entropion Surgery
- An anaesthetic injection is given in the eyelid.
- A “full-thickness” incision is made parallel to the eyelid margin.
- If the eyelid is lax, it is shortened by cutting.
- The incision is closed with stitches. Stitches that turn the eyelid outwards are also placed.
- Tape is applied over the incisions and the procedure is complete.
Possible Complications of Entropion Surgery
- The inward turning may recur.
- If the correction is overdone, the lid may turn outwards.
- Infection may develop at the incision.
Entropion Surgery at a Glance
- Anaesthesia
- An anaesthetic injection in the eyelids
- Duration
- 10 minutes per lid
- Bandage
- The eye is not bandaged; only a thin tape is applied to the eyelid.
- After surgery
- The tape is removed the next day. Keep water off the eyelid for a week.
- Stitches
- Removed after 5 days.
- Return to work
- The next day
- Check-ups
- The day after surgery, after 5 days and after 1 month
- Eye drops and ointment
- Antibiotic ointment on the eyelids for 1 week, antibiotic eye drops for 1 week
Have your eyes assessed
Send your prescription history, previous eye reports and any corneal imaging for an individual assessment — in person in İstanbul or over video.
With every surgical or interventional procedure, results vary from person to person. Please obtain a detailed opinion from your doctor before any procedure.
This article is for general information only and does not replace a medical examination or personalised medical advice.