Skip to main content
 
 

Entropion Repair Surgery

 

What is entropion repair surgery?

Entropion repair surgery is a procedure performed to correct entropion, a condition that causes the eyelid to turn inward toward the eye. When the eyelid rotates inward, the lashes and lid margin make direct contact with the cornea with every blink, causing persistent irritation, tearing, and over time, the potential for serious corneal damage.

Surgery is the most effective and lasting solution for most cases of entropion. The goal of eyelid turning inward surgery is to return the eyelid to its correct outward-facing position, eliminate lash-to-cornea contact, and protect the long-term health of the eye. The surgical approach is tailored to the underlying cause and type of entropion present.

Entropion repair surgery is performed on an outpatient basis by an oculofacial plastic surgeon. Two of the most commonly performed procedures for entropion repair are canthoplasty and canthopexy, both of which address the structural support of the eyelid at the outer corner of the eye.

Canthopexy

Canthopexy is a less invasive procedure that tightens and reinforces the existing canthal tendon (the tissue anchoring the outer corner of the eyelid) without detaching it. It is used for mild to moderate eyelid laxity where the tendon is stretched but structurally intact. 

Canthoplasty

Canthoplasty is a more involved procedure in which the canthal tendon is detached, reshaped, and reattached to the orbital rim at a more secure position. It is used for more significant eyelid laxity or cases where canthopexy alone would not provide adequate correction.

Your surgeon will determine which approach is right for you based on the degree of entropion and the condition of the eyelid tissue.

Who needs entropion repair surgery?

Most patients diagnosed with entropion are candidates for surgical repair. Surgery is typically recommended when:

  • The eyelid has turned inward and lashes are making consistent contact with the eye
  • Symptoms such as eye pain, persistent infection, or excessive tearing are affecting daily life
  • The cornea shows signs of abrasion or damage from repeated lash contact

Nonsurgical measures such as lubricating drops, bandage contact lenses, or botulinum toxin injections have not provided sufficient or lasting relief

What should I expect during entropion repair surgery?

Prior to entropion repair surgery, you will meet with your oculofacial plastic surgeon for a thorough evaluation. During this appointment, your surgeon will:

  • Examine the position, rotation, and laxity of the affected eyelid
  • Assess the cornea for any damage caused by chronic lash contact
  • Identify the type and underlying cause of the entropion
  • Review your medical history and any medications that may need to be paused before surgery, including blood thinners and certain supplements
  • Discuss the surgical technique best suited to your situation — whether canthopexy, canthoplasty, or another approach
  • Answer any questions you have about the procedure and recovery

Entropion repair surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia, and patients go home the same day. The surgical technique is determined by the type and cause of entropion:

  • Involutional entropion is most commonly corrected through canthopexy or canthoplasty to tighten and reposition the lower eyelid's supporting structures and prevent inward rotation. Additional sutures may be placed to further stabilize the eyelid margin.
  • Cicatricial entropion requires releasing the scarred inner eyelid tissue that is pulling the lid inward. A mucous membrane graft may be used to resurface the inner eyelid where scar tissue has caused significant tissue loss or contraction.
  • Spastic entropion may be addressed by correcting the underlying eyelid laxity that is allowing muscle spasms to rotate the lid inward.

What should I expect after entropion repair surgery?

Most patients tolerate recovery from entropion repair surgery well and are able to return to light daily activities within a few days. Full healing takes several weeks, and eyelid position continues to refine as swelling resolves.

In the first several days following surgery, it is normal to experience:

  • Swelling and bruising around the eye and eyelid
  • Mild discomfort or tightness along the eyelid
  • Temporary increased tearing as the eye adjusts to the corrected lid position
  • Sensitivity to light and wind

Sutures are typically removed within one to two weeks of surgery. Relief from eyelash irritation is often noticeable soon after the procedure, with eyelid position and overall comfort continuing to improve as healing progresses.

What are the risks of entropion repair surgery?

Entropion repair surgery is a well-established procedure with a high rate of success. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks to be aware of:

  • Bleeding or hematoma
  • Infection
  • Scarring
  • Asymmetry
  • Overcorrection or undercorrection
  • Dry eye
  • Recurrence

Entropion repair is a targeted, well-tolerated procedure that addresses the structural problem directly and restores the eyelid to where it belongs. If you are experiencing symptoms such as excessive tearing, persistent irritation, or an eyelid that has turned inward, schedule an appointment with a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon by calling 515.875.9480.