- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: April 25, 2025
Entropion is a common yet often misunderstood eyelid condition that can cause significant discomfort and threaten the health of your eyes. At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, with leading locations in London, Chelmsford, and Hatfield, we specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of entropion, offering expert care and advanced surgical solutions to restore your comfort and protect your vision.
Understanding Entropion
Entropion is a condition where the eyelid – most often the lower lid – turns inward towards the eye. This inward rotation causes the eyelashes and skin to rub against the surface of the eye, leading to irritation, pain, and potential damage to the cornea. Entropion of the eye can affect one or both eyes and is most seen in older adults, though it can occur at any age.
What Causes Entropion?
The causes of entropion are varied, but the most common include:
- Ageing: The natural weakening of eyelid muscles and tendons with age is the leading cause of entropion. As the supporting structures lose their tone, the eyelid can turn inward.
- Scarring: Previous eye injuries, infections, or surgeries can cause scarring that pulls the eyelid inwards.
- Inflammation or Infection: Chronic eye inflammation or infections such as trachoma can lead to entropion, particularly in areas where these conditions are more prevalent.
- Congenital Factors: Rarely, some individuals are born with entropion due to abnormal development of the eyelid muscles.
- Muscle Spasm: Spasms of the eyelid muscles, sometimes triggered by irritation or trauma, can cause temporary or persistent entropion.
Symptoms of Entropion Eye
Entropion of the eye can present with a range of symptoms, which may worsen over time if left untreated:
- Irritation and Pain: The constant rubbing of eyelashes against the eye surface leads to persistent discomfort and a gritty sensation.
- Watery Eyes: The eye may water excessively as it tries to flush out the irritation.
- Redness: Chronic irritation often results in redness of the eye.
- Sensitivity to Light: The exposed and irritated cornea can become sensitive to light.
- Feeling of a Foreign Body: Many patients describe the sensation of something being stuck in the eye.
- Discharge: In some cases, the eye may produce a discharge, especially if infection develops.
- Corneal Damage: If untreated, entropion can cause corneal ulcers or scarring, which may threaten vision.
Why Prompt Entropion Treatment is Essential
Without timely entropion treatment, the constant friction from the eyelid and lashes can lead to serious complications, including infection, corneal ulcers, and even permanent vision loss. Early intervention is key to preventing these outcomes and restoring comfort.
Entropion Treatment Options at Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic
At Blue Fin Vision®, we offer a comprehensive range of entropion treatment options, tailored to the underlying cause and severity of your condition.
Non-Surgical Management
For mild or temporary cases, or as a short-term measure before surgery, the following may be recommended:
- Lubricating Eye Drops and Ointments: These help protect the cornea and reduce irritation.
- Taping the Eyelid: Special medical tape can be used to hold the eyelid in a normal position temporarily.
- Botulinum Toxin Injections: In some cases, injections can relax the muscles causing the eyelid to turn inwards, providing temporary relief.
While these measures can alleviate symptoms, they do not address the underlying problem and are not suitable for long-term management.
Entropion Surgery: The Definitive Solution
For most patients, especially those with persistent or severe entropion, entropion oculoplastic surgery is the most effective and lasting treatment. At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, our highly skilled surgeons perform advanced entropion surgery to restore the eyelid to its correct position and function.
What to Expect from Entropion Surgery:
- Personalised Assessment: Every patient receives a thorough evaluation to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
- Minimally Invasive Techniques: Most entropion surgeries are performed under local anaesthetic as day cases, minimising downtime and discomfort.
- Precise Correction: The procedure typically involves tightening the eyelid and repositioning the muscles and tendons to prevent the lid from turning inwards.
- Rapid Recovery: Most patients experience immediate relief from symptoms, with full recovery expected within a few weeks.
- Comprehensive Aftercare: Our team provides detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up appointments to ensure optimal healing and results.
Benefits of Entropion Surgery:
- Immediate relief from irritation and discomfort
- Protection of the cornea and prevention of vision loss
- Restoration of a natural eyelid appearance
- Long-lasting results with minimal risk of recurrence
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic for Entropion Treatment?
Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic is a centre of excellence for eyelid conditions, trusted by patients across London, Chelmsford, and Hatfield. Here’s why you can trust us with your entropion eye care:
- Expertise: Our team brings years of experience and a reputation for surgical precision.
- Advanced Technology: We use the latest diagnostic and surgical techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes.
- Personalised Care: Every patient receives a bespoke treatment plan, tailored to their unique needs and lifestyle.
- Convenient Locations: With eye clinics in London, Chelmsford, and Hatfield, world-class care is always within reach.
- Outstanding Patient Satisfaction: Our patients consistently report high levels of satisfaction and excellent results.
Take the First Step Towards Comfortable, Healthy Eyes
If you are experiencing symptoms of entropion or have concerns about your eyelid health, don’t delay seeking expert advice. Early entropion treatment can prevent complications and restore your comfort and vision.
Trust your eyes to the experts at Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic. Our commitment to quality, precision, and compassionate care ensures you receive the best possible outcome for your entropion surgery.
Book your consultation today at our Harley Street, London, Chelmsford, or Hatfield clinics and experience the difference that expert, personalised eye care can make.
Protect your vision and restore your comfort – contact Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic now and take the first step towards lasting eye health.
