Entropion Repair in Las Vegas
Entropion is an eyelid condition in which the edge of the eyelid turns inward toward the eye. When this occurs, the eyelashes and surrounding skin may rub against the cornea, causing ongoing irritation, discomfort, tearing, and discharge.
Without treatment, repeated rubbing can scratch the cornea and increase the risk of infection, corneal ulcers, and vision problems. Entropion repair restores the eyelid to a more natural position, helping protect the eye and relieve uncomfortable symptoms.
What Is Entropion?
Entropion is similar to ectropion, but the eyelid turns in the opposite direction. With ectropion, the eyelid turns outward. With entropion, the eyelid turns inward, allowing the eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye.
Entropion most commonly affects the lower eyelid and frequently develops as the eyelid muscles and supporting tendons weaken with age. It may affect one or both eyes.
Symptoms of Entropion
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Eyelid turning inward
- Eyelashes rubbing against the eye
- Eye pain or irritation
- Excessive tearing
- Redness
- Mucus or discharge
- Sensitivity to light or wind
- A gritty or foreign-body sensation
- Blurry vision
- Recurrent corneal scratches or infections
Symptoms may initially come and go, especially when blinking or squeezing the eyes. As the condition progresses, the eyelid may remain turned inward more consistently.
What Causes Entropion?
Age-related weakening of the eyelid is the most common cause. Over time, the muscles and tendons that hold the eyelid in its normal position can become loose, allowing the eyelid to roll inward.
Other possible causes include:
- Eyelid muscle spasms
- Scarring inside the eyelid
- Previous eye surgery
- Trauma or injury
- Chronic inflammation
- Certain congenital conditions
An eye examination can determine the cause and severity of the eyelid inversion.
Why Should Entropion Be Treated?
Entropion is more than a cosmetic concern. When the eyelashes repeatedly scrape the cornea, they can damage the clear surface at the front of the eye.
Untreated entropion may lead to:
- Corneal abrasions
- Eye infections
- Corneal ulcers
- Corneal scarring
- Reduced vision
Prompt evaluation is especially important if you experience significant pain, increasing redness, light sensitivity, discharge, or changes in vision. The American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery notes that prolonged or severe entropion can damage the cornea and affect vision. (ASOPRS)
Schedule an Entropion Evaluation in Las Vegas
If your eyelid turns inward or your eyelashes are rubbing against your eye, do not ignore the symptoms. Early treatment can relieve discomfort and help prevent damage to the cornea.
Contact Meadows Eye Physicians & Surgeons to schedule an eyelid evaluation in Las Vegas.
Call (702) 358-0472 to request an appointment.