What is it about ?
Under the skin of the eyelids there is muscle, fat and connective tissue. Connective tissue keeps the eyelid firm, but with age it can become sagging. The amount of fat tissue also decreases, which softens the eyelid, which can then curl in or out.
In L’entropion, the edge of the eyelid (usually lower) is rolled inward. Sometimes the problem is congenital. Other times, it is due to the presence of scarring or frequent, forced blinking of the eyelids. An entropion can also be caused by chronic infection.
In L’ectropion, the edge of the lower eyelid is rolled outward, which prevents the eye from closing completely. Age and facial paralysis may be responsible.
How to recognize them?
In L’entropion, the edge of the eyelid is rolled inward. The eyelashes then rub against the eyeball. This causes pain, irritation, tearing, sensitivity to light, or a feeling of sand in the eye. At a later stage, this can cause small ulcers on the cornea (the transparent part in the front of the eye). Serious damage to the cornea can lead to deterioration of vision.
In L’ectropion, the edge of the eyelid is rolled outwards. The eye no longer closes completely and may dry out. This causes irritation and tearing, but also cosmetic complaints, as the red inside of the eyelid becomes visible. At a later stage, the lining of the eyelid also becomes thicker.
How is the diagnosis made?
The doctor makes the diagnosis during a simple eye exam, during which he inspects the skin and muscles of the eyelids.
What can your doctor do?
If there are no complaints, or if the complaints are mild, the doctor will just prescribe moisturizing ointment or drops to prevent the cornea from drying out and reducing the risk of damage.
In the presence of serious and aesthetic complaints, the general practitioner will refer you to the ophthalmologist for a small operation on the eyelid.
Want to know more?
Source