What Is Entropion? Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Cicatricial Entropion

Cicatricial entropion is caused by scarring and contraction of the inner surface of the eyelid. This can occur following trauma, previous surgery or chronic inflammation.

Because scar tissue changes the structure of the eyelid itself, cicatricial entropion can be more complex to treat than age-related forms of the condition.

Congenital Entropion

Congenital entropion is a rare form of the condition that is present from birth and results from abnormal development of the eyelid. Treatment may be required if the inward-turning eyelid causes persistent irritation or damage to the surface of the eye.

Who Is More Likely to Develop Entropion?

Entropion is particularly associated with ageing, as the muscles and supporting tissues around the eyelids naturally become weaker over time.

Other factors that may increase the likelihood of developing entropion include:

• Previous eye or eyelid surgery
• Previous trauma or burns affecting the eye area
• Chronic inflammatory or scarring conditions affecting the eyelid or conjunctiva
• Rare congenital differences in eyelid structure

How Is Entropion Diagnosed?

Entropion is usually diagnosed through an examination of the eye and eyelid by an ophthalmologist or oculoplastic specialist. The position and movement of the eyelid are assessed, along with the extent to which the eyelashes are coming into contact with the eye.

The ocular surface and cornea may also be examined for signs of irritation or damage, and vision may be checked where appropriate. Your specialist will also consider your symptoms and medical history, including previous eye surgery or trauma.

This assessment helps identify the type and likely cause of the entropion and determines which treatment approach may be most appropriate.

What Happens If Entropion Is Left Untreated?

Persistent contact between the eyelashes and the surface of the eye can cause ongoing irritation and inflammation. Over time, this friction may damage the cornea and lead to abrasions or ulcers.

Damage to the ocular surface can also increase the risk of infection. In more serious untreated cases, corneal complications may affect vision, which is why persistent or worsening entropion should be assessed by an eye specialist.

Entropion vs Ectropion: What Is the Difference?

Entropion and ectropion both affect the position of the eyelid, but in opposite directions. With entropion, the eyelid turns inward towards the eye, while ectropion causes the eyelid to turn outward and away from the eye.

Both conditions can affect the health and comfort of the eye and should be assessed if symptoms persist.

Entropion Treatment at The Ezra Clinic

At The Ezra Clinic, entropion is assessed by specialists in oculoplastic surgery, with treatment planned around the underlying cause of the condition and its effect on both the eyelid and the surface of the eye.

Depending on your individual needs, treatment may involve conservative measures to protect the eye or surgical correction to restore the eyelid to a more natural position. Our approach is tailored to your eyelid anatomy, symptoms and the type of entropion present.

If you are experiencing symptoms of entropion, book a consultation for a specialist assessment or learn more about entropion surgery and the treatment options available.

FAQ

Is entropion serious?

Entropion can range from mild irritation to a condition that damages the surface of the eye. Persistent eyelash contact with the cornea can lead to abrasions, ulcers or infection, so ongoing symptoms should be assessed.

Can entropion go away on its own?

Entropion caused by temporary muscle spasm may sometimes improve as the underlying irritation settles. However, structural forms of entropion, including age-related or scar-related entropion, are unlikely to permanently correct themselves.

Is entropion common?

Entropion is relatively common in older adults because age-related changes can weaken the tissues that support the lower eyelid. Other forms of the condition are less common.

Does entropion always require surgery?

No. Temporary treatments can relieve symptoms and protect the surface of the eye in some cases. Surgery may be recommended when entropion persists or structural correction of the eyelid is required.

Can entropion affect vision?

Yes. If persistent eyelash contact damages the cornea, complications such as abrasions, ulcers or infection can potentially affect vision.

Can entropion affect both eyes?

Yes. Entropion can affect one or both eyelids, depending on its underlying cause.

Can entropion come back after treatment?

Entropion can occasionally recur following treatment. If the eyelid begins turning inward again, further assessment can determine whether additional treatment is required.

Can entropion be prevented?

Age-related entropion cannot always be prevented. Protecting the eyes from injury and seeking appropriate treatment for persistent inflammation, infection or other eyelid conditions may help reduce some avoidable causes of eyelid scarring or damage.