Eyelid malposition occurs when an eyelid is not positioned against the eyeball the way it should be. The malposition is called “ectropion” if the eyelid is turning outwards and “entropion” if it is turning inwards.
Ectropion
Most cases of ectropion are associated with ageing. They usually occur because the skin and muscles of the eyelids stretch as you get older. Sometimes ectropion can be caused by a facial paralysis, such as Bell’s palsy. In rare cases, it can be present from birth. Less common causes of ectropion include a lump on the eyelid or tightening/scarring of the skin around the eyelid, as a result of an injury, a burn, dermatitis, or previous surgery.
Untreated ectropion can cause the eyelashes to continually rub on the front of the eye (cornea), resulting in redness, discomfort, watering, discharge and blurry vision. In extreme cases, chronic damage to the cornea can result in a sight-threatening infection. Untreated ectropion can also result in unsightly redness along the edge of the eyelid, watering, discomfort, discharge and exposure of the eyeball. Surgery to correct eyelid malposition usually reduces these problems. Eyelid malposition is usually corrected with surgery. This is generally performed under local anaesthetic as a day case.
Entropion
Most cases of entropion are associated with ageing. They usually occur because the skin and muscles of the eyelids stretch as you get older. Entropion can occasionally be caused by marked hollowing of the eye socket, tightening or scarring of the inner lining of the eyelid (conjunctiva), or spasm of the muscles around the eye.
Eyelid malposition is usually corrected with surgery. This is generally performed under local anaesthetic as a day case.
Here at Highgate Private Hospital, we have an expert team of ophthalmic surgeons who are renowned throughout the UK and worldwide for their expertise, knowledge and experience in treating ectropion and entropions. We offer all-inclusive self-pay packages for ectropion and entropion and correction procedures (terms and conditions apply) including:
- Correction surgery of lower lid ectropion (£3,415)
- Correction of entropion surgery on lower lid (£2,465)
- Correction of entropion surgery on lower lid with a graft or flap (£2,465).
For more information and eligibility criteria, speak to one of our self-pay advisors by calling
