When your eyelid starts turning inward (entropion) or outward (ectropion), it is more than a cosmetic issue. It can cause irritation, tearing, and even damage your eye. Keep reading to learn more about treatment options, steps to take, and guidance for oculoplastics in Nashville, TN.
Understanding Your Condition: Entropion vs Ectropion
Entropion is when the eyelid turns inward, causing lashes to rub against the cornea. Ectropion is the opposite, where the eyelid turns outward, leaving the eye exposed and dry. Both can occur from aging, scarring, facial paralysis, surgery, or trauma.
Symptoms can include redness, tearing, foreign body sensation, and irritation. Left untreated, these can lead to corneal damage and infection. If this sounds familiar, talk with an eye specialist today!
First Aid & Treatments
Before considering surgery, here are some steps to get relief:
- Artificial tears & lubricating ointments help soothe dry eyes.
- Taping or temporary sutures can reposition eyelids for short-term relief.
- Botox may temporarily correct mild entropion by relaxing muscles.
These approaches are great for symptom management, but may not be enough long term. Try lubricating drops, but book an evaluation if it persists.
Diagnosis & Evaluation
An oculoplastic specialist (an ophthalmologist with additional surgery training) will:
- Examine eyelid position and eyelid margin stability
- Assess tissue laxity, scarring, muscle tone
- Discuss symptom history (irritation, tearing, blurry vision)
Proper diagnosis identifies whether treatment should target aging laxity, scarring, nerve issues, or mechanical factors. Schedule a full assessment to understand what’s causing your eyelid issue.
Surgical Correction: What to Expect
Surgery is the definitive treatment for most cases. Procedures vary slightly depending on type:
Entropion Repair
- Remove excess skin or tighten eyelid retractors
- Anchor tendons to keep lid from turning in
- Often done under local anesthesia
Ectropion Repair
- Tighten eyelid horizontally (tarsal strip procedure)
- Use skin grafts if scarring limits eyelid flexibility
- Local or sedation used, outpatient setting
Recovery Timeline
- Quick 30–60-minute procedures
- Mild bruising, swelling, discomfort for ~1–2 weeks
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities during healing
If you want long-term relief, ask about surgery at your consultation.
Preventive Measures & Lifestyle Tips
After treatment, maintaining eyelid health is key:
- Protect eyes from sun & wind with sunglasses.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, as it worsens laxity.
- Manage skin health. Dermatitis and eczema near the eyes can contribute to eyelid issues.
- Stay hydrated and maintain healthy nutrition.
These small steps support long-term outcomes and eyelid comfort. Ask your specialist for personalized aftercare guidance.
Choose TN Oculoplastics in Nashville, TN
At TN Oculoplastics, our board‑certified ophthalmic plastic surgeons specialize in reconstructive eyelid surgery, including entropion, ectropion, blepharoplasty, tear-duct issues, and more. Whether you’re facing discomfort or vision issues, we provide compassionate, individualized treatment plans.
Entropion and ectropion can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, but with prompt and tailored treatment, relief is within reach. Starting with simple steps like lubricants and progressing to expert surgical care, you can protect your vision and regain comfort. Request a consultation, get treated by our expert surgeons, and recover with support.
Don’t let eyelid misalignment steal another moment. Reach out to us at TN Oculoplastics today for an evaluation, treatment, and peace of mind.