Entropion: Both Functional and Aesthetic Aspects Should Be Considered

Entropion is a condition in which the skin above the eyelashes on the eyelid sags, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eye and irritate the cornea. It can occur in the upper or lower eyelid, and the thicker the eyelid skin and muscles are, the more likely it is to develop. The causes of entropion can be divided into congenital and acquired.

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In cases of congenital entropion, symptoms may improve as a person grows, but in severe cases it can impair vision and may require correction during childhood. In some cases, eyelash irritation of the eye can recur even in adulthood, making revision surgery necessary.

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Acquired entropion may appear as the upper eyelid skin sags due to aging. At this time, the muscles and skin around the eyes loosen, pressing the eyelashes inward so they touch the cornea and cause irritation.

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Choi Seung-hyeop, director of Wink Plastic Surgery, said, “Entropion can occur in both the upper and lower eyelids. If symptoms are present, people often feel a foreign-body sensation in the eye and may develop corneal scratches or conjunctival inflammation. In severe cases, astigmatism, corneal opacity, and infection can also occur. The surgical method differs depending on the cause of the eyelash irritation.”

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Director Choi continued, “If entropion occurs due to the upper eyelashes, double eyelid surgery or upper blepharoplasty can be used to move inward-turned eyelashes outward, remove the sagging eyelid skin, and tighten it. This can reduce drooping eyelids and fine wrinkles while also raising the angle of the eyelashes and improving irritation at the same time. If entropion is caused by the lower eyelashes, entropion surgery can remove skin to lower the angle of the lower eyelashes. During surgery, both the functional issues of the eye and the aesthetic aspects must be considered to achieve a high level of satisfaction.”

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<Sports Korea reporter Lee Young-ho yhlee@sportshankook.co.kr>

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