ENTROPION REPAIR

General Information

DEFINITION--Shortening of excess tissue in the edge of the eyelid by removal of excess cartilage.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Skin and cartilage of the upper eyelid.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Improved appearance.
• Relief of redness, irritation and discomfort.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Stress.
• Smoking.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent illness.
• Alcoholism or chronic illness.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Ophthalmologist.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital, ophthalmologist's office or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; eye examination.
• After surgery: Laboratory examination of removed tissue.

ANESTHESIA--Local anesthesia by injection.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• An incision is made in the eyelid.
• The cartilage is partially cut about midway between the two sides of the eyelid.
• A small amount of the cartilage is cut free of connective tissue and removed.
• The remaining cartilage is closed with silk sutures. The skin is closed over the cartilage with sutures that usually can be removed about 10 days after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS--Surgical-wound infection.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--1 to 2 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• Bathe and shower as usual but keep the surgical area dry for 4 or 5 days after surgery.
• Apply warm compresses to the eye to relieve discomfort.
• Sleep for several nights with the head elevated on 2 pillows to decrease swelling.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks following surgery.
• Resume driving 2 days after returning home.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.

• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You experience new symptoms such as nausea or vomiting.
• Your vision changes suddenly.