Ophthalmology - Entropion/Ectropion

If you suffer from an entropion/ectropion you will be complaining of soreness of the eye.

The problem relates to the eyelids and is usually corrected by a minor operation as a day case procedure.

What is an entropion?

An entropion is when the eyelids turn inwards; the cause of this could be injury or age-related muscle changes.

What is an ectropion?

An ectropion is when the eyelid turns outwards; the cause of this could also be injury, age-related muscle changes or nerve paralysis.

Before surgery

The surgery takes approximately 20 – 40 mins, usually under a local anaesthetic.

You may need to attend the Pre-operative Assessment Clinic, for tests such as an ECG (heart trace) or blood samples if you are having a general anaesthetic.

What to expect after surgery? 

• You will have a double pad over the eye that has been operated on
• You may have some bruising and swelling around the operation site, this will resolve in the next few days
• You may experience pain and discomfort after the operation; painkillers may be given to you or instructions about the use of painkillers
• You will have an antibiotic ointment to use as directed by the nurse
• You will have stitches in place
• A follow-up appointment for the removal of stitches at the eye clinic will either be sent to you through the post or given to you prior to discharge

Risks and Complications 

• Infection (low risk)
• Bleeding (low risk) – the wound may ooze up to 24 hours after surgery. This may be worse if you take Aspirin, Clopidogrel or Warfarin medication
• Over correction/under correction – any operation may fail and require further correction
• Scarring should be minimal unless a skin graft is used. The eyelid may look a little stretched and tight for a few weeks, but this should improve with time
• If you are taking Warfarin you may be advised to contact the anticoagulation clinic, one week before your surgery

Benefits of surgery

• Correction of the abnormal position of the eyelids
• Improved cosmetic appearance
• Improved symptoms of excessive tearing, crusting of the eyelids, discharge and eye discomfort
• Reduced risk of sight-threatening corneal infections or scarring
• This procedure has a success rate of 90% after 3 years

The Royal Oldham Hospital, Oldham

A&E Department - 0161 627 8923
Friday 5pm until Monday 9am

Oldham Integrated Care Centre Eye Clinic -0161 357 5101
Monday – Friday 9am - 4.30pm

Rochdale Infirmary, Rochdale

Eye Clinic - 01706 517109
Monday - Thursday 9am until 5pm. Friday 9am until 12.30pm

Eye Ward - 01706 901766
Monday - Friday 8am until 8pm

Urgent Care Centre - 01706 517005
Monday - Friday after 8pm. Friday 8pm until Monday 9am

Fairfield General, Bury

Eye Outpatients Clinic - 0161 778 2804

A&E Department - 0161 778 2600
Monday - Friday after 8pm. Friday 8pm until Monday 8am