Elimination of entropion or ectropion of the eyelids

Treatment without surgery

Depending on the cause and severity of the condition, treatment of entropion can be either conservative or surgical.

Conservative methods of therapy include:

• Using moisturizers, including tear substitutes and eye ointments, to protect against drying and reduce discomfort
• The use of special contact lenses that serve as a barrier between the eyelashes and the cornea
• Epilation of eyelashes, which temporarily eliminates friction on the eye, but this is a short-term measure, as they grow back
• Taping is the use of adhesive tape to mechanically correct the position of the eyelid, although this may be accompanied by side effects such as skin reactions and the development of lagophthalmos
• Injections of botulinum toxin into the eyelid area to relieve excess muscle tone and temporarily correct the position

Surgery to correct entropion is a more permanent solution.

Preventive measures

The prognosis for the outcome of entropion treatment largely depends on the chosen correction method. Temporary measures such as the use of eversion sutures may result in reversal of volvulus in a significant number of patients, especially when considering long-term follow-up. This approach may have a high percentage of relapses, which indicates that the effect is temporary and the need for repeated interventions.

Botulinum toxin injections are an effective treatment for involutional entropion, offering improvements in both functional and aesthetic status over a period of several months to almost a year. However, this method is not without its drawbacks, since it requires repeating the procedure after the effect of the drug has decreased.

Plastic surgery of the eyelid tissue demonstrates the best long-term results in the treatment of entropion, providing lasting improvements and minimizing the likelihood of recurrence. This approach is often recommended as a definitive solution for eyelid deformity correction.

The following measures play a key role in the prevention of entropion:

• Avoiding injuries and inflammatory eye diseases
• UV protection
• Balanced diet
• Quitting smoking
• Moderate alcohol consumption

Following these recommendations may help slow the progression of age-related changes associated with involutional entropion and reduce the risk of developing this condition.

Preparation for eyelid surgery

Surgical intervention to correct ectropion or entropion of the eyelid is considered in cases where moderate to severe deformity is observed and when conservative treatment with lubricants has failed. These conditions can cause significant discomfort, threatening eye health and vision, and often require surgical correction.

Before deciding to proceed with surgery, the ophthalmologist should perform a thorough examination to assess the overall condition of the eyes and the severity of the ectropion or entropion. During the examination, the health of the eye is assessed and the risk of possible complications during surgery is determined.

An ophthalmologist-oculoplastist is the specialist best suited to perform surgery. The approach to treatment will depend on the individual characteristics of the patient’s eyelid condition and the cause of the disease.

Before surgery, the patient must comply with the following instructions:

• Stop taking medications that affect blood clotting
• Use eye lubricants prescribed by your doctor
• Follow recommendations for preparing for surgery, including maintaining hygiene and, if necessary, using antibacterial agents

On the appointed day, the doctor performs local anesthesia by injecting anesthetic drops into the area of ​​the eyelid and surrounding tissues. If the patient wishes, light sedation is possible to ensure maximum comfort during the procedure.

Operation process

Surgery to correct ectropion and entropion involves several key steps. Before the operation, a detailed diagnosis is necessary, on the basis of which the ophthalmologist determines the severity of the condition and selects the appropriate correction method. After choosing a technique and planning the operation, the patient may be prescribed medications to minimize the risk of complications.

The operation itself is performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon may perform manipulations to remove excess skin or tighten muscles to correct the position of the eyelid. In the case of entropion, it is possible to use the mucosal transplantation technique.

After surgery, during which stitches are placed, the patient is prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent infectious complications and speed up the healing process. It is important to follow all doctor's recommendations regarding eye care during the postoperative period to avoid stress and protect the eyes from possible injuries.

In addition, prevention aimed at reducing the risk of developing entropion plays an important role. This includes protecting your eyes from the sun, eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking and drinking alcohol in moderation.

Risks and rehabilitation

It is normal after the procedure to feel tension in the eyelid, as well as possible swelling and bruising, which usually goes away within two weeks. Sutures placed during surgery are removed by a specialist approximately one week after surgery.

To relieve discomfort and speed up the healing process, it is usually recommended:

• Using cold compresses to reduce swelling and inflammation
• Using antibiotic eye ointment to prevent infectious complications
• Take over-the-counter analgesics as needed to relieve pain

It should be noted that, like any surgical intervention, eyelid surgery carries certain risks. These include the possibility of infection, bleeding, and specific ophthalmic complications, including:

• Temporary discomfort or inflammation of the eyes
• Potential corneal damage
• Risk of eyelid asymmetry
• Foreign body sensation
• Differences in eye opening, which can create asymmetry in the face

However, it should be noted that modern ophthalmological operations are characterized by high precision and a low level of complications, due to which the health risk remains minimal.