Eyelid Malposition Correction
Surgery for Ectropion and Entropion of eyelids.

Ectropion (outward turning of eyelid)

Ectropion is the medical term used to describe sagging and outward turning of the lower eyelid and eyelashes. This can lead to excessive tearing, crusting of the eyelid, mucous discharge and irritation of the eye.

Entropion (inward turning of eyelid)

Entropion is the medical term used to describe rolling inward of the lower eyelid and eyelashes towards the eyeball. The skin of the eyelid and the eyelashes rub against the cornea (the front part of the eye) and conjunctiva (the membrane that protects the eye). This rubbing can lead to excessive tearing, crusting of the eyelid, mucous discharge, foreign body sensation in the eye, irritation of the cornea and impaired vision.

What causes Entropion or Entropions?

Most cases of ectropion and entropion are due to weakening of tissues and small muscles of the eyelid as a result of ageing. Some cases result from scarring of the eyelid caused by sun exposure, chemical/thermal trauma, skin cancers or previous eye surgery.

How is eyelid malposition treated?

Ectropion and entropion should be repaired surgically before there is any damage to the cornea (the front of the eye). Ectropion puts the eye at risk as the outward turning lid is unable to protect the surface; while entropion may cause harm as the eyelash rubs against the eyeball.

The surgical technique to repair these condition depends on the cause of eyelid malposition and patient factors. It is customised to each individual patients eyelid condition and severity.

How can surgery help?

The benefits of surgery include:

  • Restoration of the normal appearance and function of the eyelid
  • Relief of symptoms (grittiness, pain, redness of the eye)
  • Reduction of risk of eye infection.

Planning your surgery / Procedure

Consultation

Our doctors will take detailed history and assess your eyelids to determine the extent of ectropion involving the lids. We will explore your request in detail and advise if surgery would be able to achieve the outcome you desire.

It is important to bring along all your medications, and advised the doctor if you’re taking blood thinner medications. Necessary measurements and photographs will be taken to allow for planning of surgery. We will discuss in detail your condition and explain in detail the surgical procedure during the consultation .

Preparing for the surgery?

Prior to surgery, please ensure that you allow 6 hours of fasting prior to surgery, you will be directed to the operating theatre at the Sydney Eye Hospital.

What happens during the surgery?

Correction of eyelid mal-position is usually performed under local anaesthesia as an outpatient. Some patients may choose to have a light sedation during injection of aneasthesia. The surgical technique may vary depending on the underlying condition. In most cases, your doctor will determine the best method of achieve the results you want.

What happens after the surgery?

Here are some points to be mindful of following surgery:

Eye patch

You may have an eye patch over-night and will be prescribed antibiotic eyedrops or ointment for about a week. If surgery is done to both eyes, one patch will be removed before you leave the surgery.

Sutures

These are generally removed between 7-10 days after the surgery.

Returning home after surgery

It would be ideal to have someone (friend or family) to take you home or arrange a taxi.

At home

Vision may seem a bit smeary following surgery or from the ointment prescribed.
Please take care not to rub on or near the surgical wound for at least 2 weeks.

Post-operative ointment

Please use Chlorsig eyedrops to use 3 times during the day and ointment at night. The ointment can also be applied to the skin wound.

This is used for 1-2 weeks following surgery

FAQ

Can I wash and bath normally?

It is okay to bath and shower, however, please try and keep the surgical wound dry at until the sutures are removed. During healing phase, it is best to keep the wound dry.

Exercise and swimming?

While gentle exercises are okay following surgery, it is best to avoid any strenuous exercise, sports, or heavily lifting for at least 2 weeks until the wound heals.

Swimming should be avoided until the wound heals and stitches removed.

Can I drive after the surgery?

You should be able to continue to drive following day after surgery when the patches are removed. However the ointment may make the vision blurry, thus please do take great care, or stop driving if the vision is not clear.

Can I still use makeup after the surgery?

Make-up can be worn from the day after the operation, however please avoid putting make on or close to the wound or stitches.

Is it okay to watch television or use the computer as usual?

Yes, these can continue as usual.

Further questions?

If you have any concerns or questions, please contact us on: Sydney CBD Eye Surgery 02 9233 6688