Our eyelids do more than just blink; they protect our eyes and keep them comfortable. But sometimes, the eyelids don’t sit the way they should, and that can cause problems.
Two common eyelid conditions are ectropion and entropion. What is the difference between the two? Let’s find out!
Ectropion
Ectropion is an abnormal lower eyelid that turns outward and no longer touches the eye. This can happen to adults as the eyelid relaxes over time.
While ectropion is most often seen in older patients, it can also be the result of trauma, burns, and skin cancers. It can also occur after facial nerve palsy and may be aggravated when a tearing patient constantly wipes their eye. This causes further pulling of the eyelid from the eye.
The symptoms of ectropion include excessive tearing, crusting of the eyelid, discharge, infection, and impaired vision. The exposed inner lining of the eyelid becomes dry, red, and inflamed, and ultimately, the eye can be damaged.
Treatment occasionally involves using artificial tears or lubricating ointment to protect the cornea, but if eyelid tissue problems are not addressed, surgery for ectropion may be required.
If ectropion is a result of scarring, skin cancer, facial nerve palsy, or other problems, the underlying condition will also need to be treated at the same time.
Entropion
On the other hand, entropion is a condition where the lower eyelid and lashes turn inward. Entropion is commonly due to the relaxation of eyelid tissues over time.
The problem with this condition is that the lid and lashes constantly rub against the cornea, creating the sensation that there is something in the eye. This also causes excessive tearing, red eyes, discharge, and crusting of the eye that can impair vision. If left untreated, entropion can cause infection and scarring of the cornea.
The treatment usually involves outpatient surgery under local anesthesia. Several surgical techniques are used to tighten and reposition the eyelid. Once the surgery is completed, the lower eyelid no longer irritates the cornea, and this relieves the redness, tearing, and foreign-body sensation.
If you have any questions about ectropion, entropion, or other eye problems, feel free to contact the Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida. If not, may God grant you healthy eyes and great vision.
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Eye Care Specialists in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Nearby Areas
At the Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida, our board-certified ophthalmologist uses state-of-the-art tools and techniques to help patients manage their eye issues and vision problems. Schedule an appointment online or call our office near you!
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