Entropian Houston

Entropion is a medical condition in which the eyelid turns inward, causing irritation and discomfort as the eyelashes rub against the eye’s surface. If left untreated, this issue can lead to serious eye complications. Residents of Houston, TX, experiencing symptoms of entropion can benefit from specialized care offered at Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery. Under the expertise of Dr. Mirwat S. Sami, entropion can be accurately diagnosed and effectively treated to improve eye health and comfort.

What is Entropion?

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid margin is rolled inwards towards the eye. It results in eyelids and eyelashes that rub against the eye, making it red, irritated, painful, and sensitive to light. The irritation of the corneal surface can cause excessive tearing and discharge. If left untreated, it can result in corneal and eye abrasions, infections or ulcers, and, eventually, blindness.

Entropion occurs most commonly due to age-related weakening of specific eyelid muscles and laxity of eyelid tendons. As with any aging process, the physiognomy of each individual, genetic susceptibility, and the interplay of environmental factors play a role in its manifestation.

In other cases, entropion can be secondary to trauma, previous surgeries, conditions that cause scarring, or neurologic disorders. In children, this can be a congenital condition that is an isolated finding or together with other systemic abnormalities.


Left lower eyelid entropion (inversion) and trichiasis, repair and eyelid reconstruction

Entropion - BeforeBefore

Entropion - AfterAfter

You can see more photos of our Entropion Procedures in our Before & After Gallery


What Causes Entropion

Entropion typically develops due to various factors, including:

  • Aging: The most common cause is weakening muscles and skin around the eye, which results in the inward folding of the eyelid.
  • Scarring or Injury: Trauma or surgeries can create scar tissue, pulling the eyelid inward.
  • Inflammation or Infection: Chronic irritation or certain conditions, such as trachoma, can lead to this condition.
  • Congenital Factors: Some individuals are born with entropion due to abnormalities in eyelid structure.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Entropion

Common signs of entropion include:

  • Redness and Irritation: The inward-turned eyelashes continuously rub against the eye, leading to redness and irritation.
  • Excessive Tearing: The eye produces more tears as a response to the discomfort caused by the eyelashes.
  • Sensitivity to Light and Wind: Eyes affected by entropion may become sensitive to light or windy environments.
  • Blurred Vision: In severe cases, entropion can lead to corneal damage, affecting vision.

Your Consultation with Dr. Sami

Dr. Mirwat S. Sami carefully customizes her operative plan for each patient, taking into account their unique features such as facial symmetry, the shape of the eye, the position of fat pads, skin quality, muscle tone, dry eye problems, and position of the eyeball in relation to the facial bones. Based on her preoperative assessment and the unique needs and expectations of each patient, she tailors her surgical plan with compassionate care, aiming to achieve exceptional results.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sami, please do not hesitate to contact us at 713-668-1264 so we can help enhance your life.

The Procedure

Entropion can be surgically repaired, and the technique is dependent on the cause, severity, and chronicity of the presentation. The most common surgical procedure involves tightening the eyelid and its attachments to restore the eyelid to its normal position. The surgery can be performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. Patients typically recover quickly and experience excellent resolution of the condition following surgery.


Entropion - BeforeBefore

Entropion - AfterAfter

Right lower eyelid entropion (inversion) and trichiasis, repair and eyelid reconstruction


Recovery Process After Entropion Eye Treatment

Following treatment, the recovery process is typically smooth. Patients may experience mild discomfort or swelling, which usually subsides within a week or two. Post-operative care instructions often include using antibiotic ointment and avoiding strenuous activities to facilitate proper healing. Regular follow-up visits will help monitor recovery and secure optimal results.

Cost of Entropion Treatment

The cost of treating entropion varies depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment required. While non-surgical options may be more affordable, surgical correction tends to be a more permanent solution, making it a worthwhile investment for long-term eye health and comfort.

Schedule a Consultation

If you suspect you have entropion or have been diagnosed with the condition, seeking expert care is essential to prevent further eye damage. To learn more about treatment options and to discuss the best course of action, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mirwat S. Sami at Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery.