Eyelids protect the eye surface from external factors, dryness, and injuries. They also ensure proper distribution of tears, maintaining clear vision quality. However, in some cases, the anatomical structure of the eyelid may change, turning inward or outward. Entropion is characterized by the inward turning of the eyelid, which may cause eyelashes to rub against the eye. Ectropion, on the other hand, refers to the outward turning of the eyelid, which can lead to dryness of the eye surface. Both conditions can cause problems in terms of aesthetics and visual health.
What is Entropion?
Entropion is an eyelid disorder observed in the lower eyelid, characterized by the inward turning of the eyelid. This condition leads to the eyelashes and skin at the edge of the eyelid coming into direct contact with the eye surface.
Due to the abnormality in the eyelid, irritation, redness, a feeling of stinging, and a decrease in vision quality may occur in the cornea. If left untreated, serious complications such as corneal ulcers may develop.
What are the Causes of Entropion?
The main causes of entropion include aging, loss of skin elasticity, weakening of eyelid muscles, and trauma. Congenital structural disorders can also lead to the development of entropion.
Primary causes of entropion:
-
Age-related tissue loosening: Loss of elasticity in the support tissues of the lid is a common cause observed in elderly individuals.
-
Traumas: Structural disorders occurring after blows to the eyelid, burns, or surgical interventions.
-
Chronic inflammations: Long-term eyelid inflammations (blepharitis) can lead to structural changes in the tissues.
-
Congenital anomalies: Rarely seen in newborns due to lid developmental defects.
What are the Symptoms of Entropion?
The symptoms of entropion can vary depending on the irritation of the eye surface:
-
Continuous and uncontrolled tearing (epiphora)
-
Redness, burning, and stinging in the eye
-
Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
-
Blurred vision and a feeling of fatigue in the eye
-
In advanced cases, damage to the corneal surface and risk of infection
What is Ectropion?
Ectropion is an eyelid disorder seen in the lower eyelid, characterized by the outward turning of the lid. Normally, the eyelid contacts the eye surface fully, ensuring proper tear distribution. With the development of ectropion, the edge of the lid does not touch the eye, leading to improper tear distribution and exposure of the eye surface.
What are the Causes of Ectropion?
Although ectropion is commonly associated with aging, it can result from various causes. The primary causes of ectropion include aging, sagging and loosening of the skin, facial paralysis, complications from eyelid surgery, injuries, and certain diseases.
Ectropion may develop due to the individual or combined effect of different factors:
-
Age-related Tissue Loosening: Loss of elasticity in the lid connective tissue is one of the most common causes in advanced ages.
-
Traumas: Deformities following blows to the eyelid, surgical procedures, or burns.
-
Facial Nerve Paralysis: Can lead to ectropion development by causing weakness in the eyelid muscles.
-
Chronic Skin Conditions: Disorders that disrupt the structure and flexibility of the skin may adversely affect the lid position.
What are the Symptoms of Ectropion?
Ectropion causes complaints that adversely affect eye health in terms of comfort and function:
-
Eye dryness, burning, and stinging sensation
-
Continuous tearing due to tear overflow
-
Frequent recurrent conjunctivitis and other eye infections
-
Corneal irritation, redness, and blurred vision
-
Irritation and crusting of the eyelid skin
How is Entropion and Ectropion Treated?
The treatment plan for entropion and ectropion can be determined according to the severity of the disease, the underlying cause, and the patient's general health condition. In both cases, the aim is to restore the eyelid to its normal anatomical position, protect the eye surface, prevent irritation, and preserve vision quality.
Temporary and Supportive Treatment Methods
-
Artificial tear drops and gels: Keep the eye surface moist to reduce dryness and irritation.
-
Protective ointments: Used to protect the eye surface from irritation during sleep.
-
Bandage contact lenses: Provide temporary relief by preventing eyelash contact with the eye surface.
-
Taping or band applications: Can be applied temporarily to change the lid position.
These methods alleviate symptoms but do not provide a permanent solution as they do not eliminate the anatomical defect.
Surgical Treatment Methods
Surgical methods are effective and permanent approaches in the treatment of entropion and ectropion. The application method varies according to the type of the condition:
-
Entropion surgery: The loosened tissues at the edge of the lid are tightened, preventing the eyelashes from contacting the eye surface.
-
Ectropion surgery: The lid tissue is reshaped, and grafts from skin or mucosa may be used to support the lid.
Both surgical interventions aim to improve the patient's visual comfort and protect eye health. Eyelid surgery is performed under local anesthesia, and patients are discharged on the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does inward turning of the eyelid cause vision loss?
In the early period, it can cause temporary blurred vision. However, if left untreated, complications such as corneal damage, ulcers, and permanent vision loss may develop.
Does turning inward or outward of the eyelid prevent makeup application?
Yes, in these cases, makeup products can easily contact the eye surface and increase irritation. It is recommended to avoid makeup and pay attention to eye hygiene until the treatment process is completed.
Are Entropion and Ectropion only seen in the elderly?
No, they can occur at any age. Traumas, burns, congenital lid structure defects, or nerve paralysis can also lead to this issue in younger individuals.
What is the most distinct difference between outward and inward turning of the eyelid?
In inward turning, eyelashes rub against the eye causing irritation. Outward turning leaves the eye surface exposed, increasing risks of dryness and infection.