Vision conditions
In-turning Eyelids (Entropion)
Entropion occurs when the eyelid margin turns inward, causing eyelashes and skin to rub against the eye surface. This leads to irritation, redness, and potential corneal damage if untreated. An eye evaluation helps determine the cause and restore proper eyelid position.
Why eyelids roll inward
Understanding inward eyelid turn
Normally, eyelids rest flat against the eye to protect the cornea. Entropion happens when muscles weaken, tendons stretch, or scar tissue pulls the lid margin inward — most commonly affecting the lower lid in older adults. This exposes the eye to constant lash friction, risking infection or vision changes.
Adults over 60 — Very common
Entropion affects many people over age 60 due to natural muscle relaxation and tissue changes around the eye.
Scarring cases — Higher complication risk
Previous infections, burns, or surgery increase scarring that pulls the lid inward, requiring prompt care to protect vision.
Feeling lashes against the eye
When to consider an eye evaluation
Recognizing the Signs of In-turning Eyelids (Entropion)
- Foreign body sensation or sharp discomfort
- Red, watery, or excessively tearing eyes
- Sensitivity to light, wind, or blinking
- Crusting, discharge, or recurrent infections
Entropion causes direct corneal irritation from inward-turned lashes. Common signs include:
If these symptoms are affecting your daily life, an eye examination is recommended.
Ways to manage Entropion
Repositioning the eyelid margin
Temporary lubrication provides relief while awaiting assessment. Depending on cause and severity, your ophthalmologist may recommend:
Clarifying Your Concerns
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that vision correction is a significant decision. Here are honest, transparent answers to the questions we hear most often from our patients.
It most commonly occurs due to age-related weakening of eyelid tissues. Other causes include scarring, previous surgery, inflammation, or muscle imbalance.
Symptoms may include eye irritation, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, and the sensation of a foreign body in the eye.
Surgery, such as dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), is considered if non-surgical treatments are ineffective, or if there is a risk of ongoing infection or severe blockage.
Yes. Continuous rubbing of the eyelashes against the cornea can lead to scratches, infections, or scarring if not treated.
Temporary relief may be achieved with lubricating drops, ointments, or taping. Botulinum toxin injections may be used in selected cases. Surgery is often recommended for long-term correction.
Surgical correction is usually a minor day procedure that tightens the eyelid and restores its normal position.
You should seek evaluation if you experience persistent irritation, pain, tearing, or sensitivity to light, especially if symptoms worsen.
Yes. Entropion is the inward rolling of the entire eyelid margin, usually due to age-related muscle laxity. Epiblepharon is an extra horizontal fold of skin (common in Asian children) that pushes the lashes into the eye while the lid remains in a normal position. Both require different surgical techniques for correction.