Entropion Repair
What Is an Eyelid Entropion?
What Causes an Eyelid Entropion?
Eyelid entropion is typically caused by a combination of factors that lead to the inward turning of the eyelid. The primary causes of entropion include:
- Age-Related Changes: One of the most common causes of entropion is the aging process. As individuals get older, the skin and muscles around the eyes can lose elasticity and firmness. This can lead to a weakening of the support structures of the lower eyelid, causing it to turn inward.
- Muscle Weakness: Weakened or imbalanced muscles around the eye can also contribute to entropion. If the muscles responsible for maintaining proper eyelid position and functioning are not functioning correctly, the eyelid may rotate inward.
- Scarring: Scarring of the eyelid or the surrounding tissues can distort the normal anatomy of the eyelid. Scar tissue can pull the eyelid inward, resulting in entropion. Scarring can be due to injury, surgery, or other medical conditions.
- Congenital Factors: In some cases, individuals may be born with a predisposition to entropion due to congenital factors. Congenital entropion occurs when a person has a genetic or developmental abnormality that affects the eyelid’s position.
- Infection and Inflammation: Chronic inflammation or infection of the eyelid and its surrounding structures can cause the tissues to contract or become distorted. This contraction can lead to entropion.
- Previous Surgery or Trauma: Prior eye surgery or trauma can lead to structural changes in the eyelid, which may result in entropion.
It is important to note that entropion can lead to significant discomfort and potentially damage to the cornea if left untreated. Therefore, individuals experiencing symptoms of entropion, such as eye irritation, redness, or a foreign body sensation, should seek prompt medical attention for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
How Is Eyelid Entropion Surgically Corrected?
Fixing an eyelid entropion will typically require surgical correction to reposition the eyelid and address the underlying causes. The specific surgical technique used will depend on the severity of the entropion and the underlying factors contributing to the condition. Here are some common surgical procedures used to correct eyelid entropion:
- Horizontal Lid Shortening: This procedure involves removing a small section of the eyelid to shorten it. Shortening the eyelid can help reposition it and prevent the eyelashes from rubbing against the eye. The surgeon then sutures the shortened eyelid in its new position.
- Canthoplasty: Canthoplasty may be used to reposition and tighten the lateral canthal tendon, which is responsible for the outer corner of the eye’s position. Tightening this tendon can help correct the entropion and secure the eyelid in its correct position.
- Tarsal Strip Procedure: This procedure involves attaching a strip of material to the inside of the eyelid (the tarsal plate) to provide additional support and maintain the correct position of the eyelid. This is especially effective for age-related entropion.
- Mucous Membrane Grafting: In some cases, a graft of mucous membrane tissue (often taken from the inside of the mouth) may be used to help reposition and support the eyelid.
- Combination Procedures: Surgeons may use a combination of techniques to address various factors contributing to the entropion, such as muscle weakness and tissue laxity.
After surgery, patients will be provided with post-operative care instructions, which include everything you need to know about wound care, the use of eye drops or ointments, and follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and assess the success of the surgery.
Why Choose an Oculoplastic Surgeon for Eyelid Surgery?
Oculoplastic surgeons are highly specialized professionals who focus on the delicate and intricate structures around the eyes. Here are some key reasons to consider when making this choice:
- Expertise in Eye Anatomy: Oculoplastic surgeons have a deep understanding of the anatomy and function of the eye and its surrounding structures. They are uniquely qualified to perform surgeries that affect the eyelids, tear ducts, and the eye socket, ensuring the best outcomes and minimizing the risk of complications.
- Specialization in Eyelid and Periocular Procedures: Oculoplastic surgeons specialize in procedures related to the eyelids, including eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), ptosis surgery, entropion, ectropion correction, and more. Their specialized training and experience make them highly proficient in addressing a wide range of eyelid issues.
- Focused Training: Oculoplastic surgeons typically undergo comprehensive training that includes ophthalmology and plastic surgery, making them uniquely qualified to address both functional and cosmetic concerns of the eyelids.
Dr. Avila has completed an ophthalmology residency at Mount Sinai Hospital, followed by a two-year fellowship in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery. She is double board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
- Minimized Risks: Given their expertise and experience, oculoplastic surgeons can perform eyelid surgery with a higher degree of precision, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring a safer surgical experience.
- Optimal Cosmetic Outcomes: If you are considering eyelid surgery for cosmetic reasons, an oculoplastic surgeon can help you achieve natural, aesthetically pleasing results that maintain the proper function of the eyelids.
- Treatment of Complex Cases: Oculoplastic surgeons are well-equipped to handle complex and challenging cases, including those involving eye trauma, eyelid reconstruction, and issues caused by medical conditions or previous surgeries.
- Collaboration with Ophthalmologists: Oculoplastic surgeons are also Ophthalmologists, ensuring that both the functional and aesthetic aspects of your eye health are addressed in a coordinated manner.
- Continual Advancements: Oculoplastic surgeons stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in eyelid and periocular surgery, offering their patients access to state-of-the-art techniques and technology.
Dr. Avila is a qualified, double board-certified oculoplastic surgeon who can provide you with the best possible care and outcomes, whether your goals are functional or cosmetic. Their specialization in this field and focus on the unique needs of the eye and its surroundings make them the ideal choice for these procedures.
Sarah Avila, MD
Specialization: Eyelid Surgery & Aesthetics
Dr. Sarah Avila is an oculofacial plastic surgeon in Miami, Florida. After completing medical school, Dr. Avila completed a residency in ophthalmology at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, followed by a highly competitive two-year ASOPRS-accredited fellowship in reconstructive and cosmetic oculofacial surgery at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. During this fellowship, Dr. Avila focused on plastic surgery related to the eyelids, brows, lacrimal duct system, orbit, and face.
