Entropion & Ectropion Repair

Entropion and ectropion problems present themselves in the form of inward and outward turned eyelids. In its mild forms, the condition can be managed with nonsurgical options like BOTOX® injections, transparent tape, contacts, and eye drops. However, the only way to potentially reverse these conditions is through entropion and ectropion repair surgeries. Dr. Michael Connor’s years of experience in treating these conditions make him an expert in the field of oculoplastics. When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Connor will take the time to assess your condition and recommend the necessary surgery or treatment to suit your needs.

What Is Entropion & Ectropion Repair Surgery?

Entropion is an eyelid disorder where the eyelid margin is rotated inward secondary to laxity of the eyelid. This can create an irritated, red eye with tearing. Ultimately, if left untreated, an entropion can lead to corneal infections, corneal scarring, and loss of vision. Ectropion is the opposite of entropion. The eyelid margin is rotated outward. It can be subtle, which may produce symptoms of tearing, or it can be obvious where the pink, back surface of the eyelid is visible. A severe ectropion may prevent the eye from completely closing. Dr. Connor has been conducting both entropion and ectropion surgery procedures for years. His skill and expertise in the field can help you improve both your vision and appearance.

Who Can Benefit From Entropion & Ectropion Repair?

Entropion and ectropion repair surgeries are commonly conducted for older adult patients. It typically affects the lower eyelid and can cause the eyelashes to be up against the eye, which can cause irritation to the eye and even potentially damage the cornea.

How Does Entropion & Ectropion Repair Work?

Typically, surgery is thought to be the most common-sense procedure for the treatment of these concerns. These surgical repair procedures are done relatively quickly and involve a variety of techniques depending on your needs. A lateral tarsal strip procedure, everting suture surgery, or other course may be taken in addressing your condition. In most cases, numbing drops will be used to help with pain and discomfort. The use of dissolving stitches will likely be required.

What Are the Benefits of This Procedure?

Entropion and ectropion repair surgeries can provide long-term benefits in the form of improved vision and better eye appearance. Symptoms such as irritated eyes, pain, watery eyes, and decreased vision can effectively be corrected through these procedures. In contrast if entropion and ectropion conditions are left untreated, they can injure the cornea, potentially leading to corneal ulcers, eye infections, and increasing vision loss. A consultation with Dr. Connor can provide you with a complete understanding of the many benefits this procedure can yield.

What Can I Expect During Entropion & Ectropion Repair?

Both entropion and ectropion can be surgically corrected by our oculoplastic surgeon through a small incision at the outer corner of the eye. An incision may also be made just below the lash line. This is a 20-minute, outpatient procedure usually performed under IV sedation. There are multiple subsets of each procedure; in order to determine the best one for you, schedule a consult with Dr. Connor.

What Is Recovery Like After the Procedure?

After your procedure, you will likely experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising that will subside in a few days. Post-operative stitches may irritate the eyes, but this is not common. You may not be able to drive or engage in strenuous activity for a few days after your treatment. After the surgery, Dr. Connor will provide you with an antibiotic cream or eye drops to ease discomfort. Using a cool compress for the first 48 hours after surgery and then switching to warm compresses may help as well. Most patients take two weeks to fully heal from this procedure. These surgeries can provide long-term benefits, improving both vision and appearance.

How Much Does Entropion & Ectropion Repair Cost?

Many of our reconstructive procedures are covered by insurance and patients will not need to pay out of pocket unless their insurance benefits dictate that that is the case. For those who are self-pay, we will determine the cost during your consultation with Dr. Connor. Coming in for an exam and consultation is the best way to get a complete understanding of the fees involved with these procedures.

Does Insurance Cover Entropion & Ectropion Repair?

Typically, entropion and ectropion repair surgeries are determined to be medically necessary. Therefore, insurance will often cover at least a portion of the surgical procedure costs. However, getting in touch with your insurance company prior to your surgery can provide the most certainty in this regard. Strict guidelines exist for insurance coverage, so it may also be a good idea to discuss out-of-pocket costs with your insurer.

Dr. Connor and his staff provide a friendly, professional and skilled service to all patients. At every visit, patients leave smiling and confident. I highly recommend Dr. Connor!

– Doreen D.