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IMPORTANT INFORMATION

This surgical fact sheet is for general information about this procedure only. It is not intended to be used as medical advice or to replace advice that your relevant healthcare professional would give you. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.

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Surgical procedure

Entropion and Ectropion Repair

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This document will give you information about entropion and ectropion repair. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.

What is entropion and ectropion?Entropion is where your eyelid turns in and causes your eyelashes to rub against the cornea. Ectropion is where your eyelid turns out and does not touch your eye (see figure 1).

How does entropion or ectropion happen?The problem is usually caused by ageing. Sometimes it is caused by scar tissue pulling your eyelid out of position. Only the lower eyelid is usually affected.

What are the benefits of surgery?Your eyelid should be in a better position and your symptoms should improve.

Are there any alternatives to surgery?Artificial tears and ointments can be used to protect the surface of your eye. Your surgeon may recommend a special soft contact lens for you to wear.If you have entropion, your surgeon may recommend using tape to prevent your eyelashes from rubbing against your eye, injecting Botox into the muscle that turns your eyelid inwards, or using stiches to prevent your eyelid from turning in.

What does the operation involve?The operation is usually performed under a local anaesthetic. The operation usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on whether the operation involves both eyes.Your surgeon may need to remove a small section of your eyelid where the tissues have slackened most. If the problem is caused by tight skin or scar tissue, your surgeon may need to use a skin graft.

What complications can happen?1 General complications� Pain� Bleeding� Infection of the surgical site (wound)

2 Specific complications� Cornea abrasion� Lid notch� Cosmetic problems

How soon will I recover?You should be able to go home after a few hours.Do not get your eyelid wet, do strenuous exercise or bend down until the stitches are removed.Do not wear eye make-up or drink alcohol for a few weeks, and keep your face out of the sun.

Figure 1a Entropion - eyelid turned inb Ectropion - eyelid turned out

a

b

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Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.The results of an entropion or ectropion repair last for a long time. However, as you get older your skin and soft tissues of your eyelids will continue to slacken and the problem may come back.

SummaryAn entropion or ectropion repair is an operation to correct an eyelid that turns in or turns out. The operation should improve symptoms caused by entropion or ectropion.AcknowledgementsAuthor: Prof Anthony King MD FRCOphthIllustrations: Medical Illustration Copyright © Nucleus Medical Art. All rights reserved. www.nucleusinc.com

This document is intended for information purposes only and should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.

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