Eyelid Position Problems: Entropion, Ectropion & Ptosis
in Portland, Maine

By Robert Daly, M.D.

Eyelid position problems such as entropion, ectropion and ptosis are eyelid problems for which Eyecare Medical Group surgeon Robert Daly, M.D. provides specialized consultation, examination, diagnosis and treatment.

Entropion is an eye condition characterized by the turning in of the edges of eyelid, usually the lower eyelid, so that the eyelashes may actually rub against the surface of the eye. Entropion can be a congenital eye condition or an acquired eye condition. In babies, it rarely causes problems because the lashes are very soft and do not easily damage the cornea. In older people, the entropion is usually caused by a spasm and weakening of the muscles surrounding the lower part of the eye, causing the eyelid to turn inward. Patients who have entropion often experience symptoms of excessive tearing, eye irritation, redness, discomfort and might even experience a decrease in vision if their cornea is damaged. The initial treatment of entropion may include Dr. Daly using artificial tears in order to provide relief from dryness and keep the cornea lubricated. Eyelid surgery to correct the position of the eyelids so that the edges no longer turn in is very effective. In severe cases of entropion, where significant damage has resulted in a corneal ulcer, it may be necessary for Dr. Daly to perform additional surgical procedures to protect the eye from further damage.

Ectropion is an eye condition characterized by the turning out of the lower eyelid so that the inner surface of the eyelid is exposed. Ectropion is usually caused by the aging process and the weakening of the connective tissue of the eyelid, which causes the lid to sag and to turn out. It can also be caused by contraction of scar tissue from burns or from facial palsy and may occur as a congenital defect, for example in children with Down's Syndrome. Ectropion may disturb the distribution of tears on the surface of the eye and results in dry, painful eyes, chronic conjunctivitis, excessive tearing or inflammation of the cornea. The initial treatment of entropion (as well as entropion) may include artificial tears eye drops to help keep the cornea lubricated and provide relief from dryness and irritation. However, surgery to tighten the muscles that hold the eyelids in place is preferred as it is quite effective and can actually be performed by Dr. Daly as an outpatient surgery using only a local anesthetic.

Ptosis is commonly referred to as a droopy eyelid. Ptosis can be caused by weakness of the muscles responsible for raising the eyelid, damage to the nerves that control these muscles or a loss of tone and sagging of the skin of the upper eyelids. Ptosis or a drooping eyelid may be the result of the normal aging process, may be due to a congenital abnormality or possibly the result of an injury or other disease including diabetes, tumors, stroke or other neurological problems. Patients who have a ptosis experience a drooping of one or both of the eyelids that can significantly interfere with vision. Treatment of Ptosis depends on the underlying cause of the condition. If there is an underlying disease it should be treated first. Most cases of Ptosis are associated with aging and no underlying disease is usually found. Surgical correction of Ptosis can be performed by Dr. Daly to improve both the appearance of the eyelids as well as to improve vision.

If you would like to learn more about eye plastic surgery for eyelid positioning problems such as entropion, ectropion or ptosis please take a moment to call Eyecare Medical Group in Portland, Maine at 888-374-2020.

