Entropion

Conveniently located to serve Fort Myers

Entropion is a condition in which an eyelid turns inward. The lashes often rub against the eye and it can be very uncomfortable. Dr. Stephen Laquis has a great deal of experience performing treatment for entropion in Fort Myers.

Entropion occurs as a result of laxity of tendons and/or muscles, trauma, scarring, or previous surgeries.

Entropion Treatment

While there are many ways to lessen the symptoms of entropion, full treatment of the condition is the optimal solution. If your entropion occurred due to an infection or active inflammation, treating the infected or inflamed eye may return your eyelid to its normal alignment. However, if the tissue has been scarred, this may not be enough to resolve the condition.

Entropion surgery is a permanent way to correct the condition. Surgical repair often involves tightening of the lid, and if necessary removal of scar tissue.

Before any surgery for entropion, regardless of the technique used, you will be administered local anesthesia to numb the eyelid and surrounding areas. Local anesthesia ensures that the procedure does not involve any pain. Light sedation may also be used.

Surgical Techniques

The type of surgery chosen to address your entropion will depend on the cause of your entropion and the condition of the tissues that surround your eyelid.

Age-Related Entropion: Tendon and/or muscle laxity in the eyelid region often occurs during the aging process. During surgery, Dr. Laquis will first remove a part of the lower eyelid, tightening the tendons and/or muscles causing the issue. Fine stitches will then be placed either below the lower eyelid or on the outside corner of the eye.

When Scar Tissue Is Present: Scar tissue inside the eyelid can result from eyelid trauma, a previous surgery, infection, or inflammation. This scar tissue will be surgically removed. In certain cases, a mucous membrane graft may be needed once the scar tissue has been removed. This can be created using tissue taken from the nasal passages or the roof of the mouth.

Healing and Aftercare

Once entropion surgery has been completed, the recovery process will begin. A feeling of tightness is normal and will gradually disappear as part of healing. Patients must apply an antibiotic ointment for a week to help avoid infection.

Patients often experience a degree of bruising and swelling in the eye area. These can be reduced with the help of cold compresses. It will take about two weeks for all bruising and swelling to fade.

Schedule Your Consultation

Contact our office for a consultation or call 239-947-4042.