A 2-step Procedure for Entropion Treatment: Eyelid Splitting and Full-thickness Everting Sutures

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the 2-step procedure used for treating entropion patients: (1) performing a grey line split incision and recessing the anterior lamella; (2) using full-thickness everting sutures of the eyelid to enhance the rotating effect. METHODS: In total, 31 eyelids of 21 patients were reviewed (male–female ratio = 11:10), with each patient having either upper or lower, or both eyelid entropion due to various causes. All patients underwent the two-step procedure by eyelid splitting and full-thickness everting sutures at the Bundang Cha Hospital from August 2014 until July 2018. RESULTS: The mean follow-up duration was 24.3 months (range, 14–107 months). The causes of entropion included involutional entropion (15 eyelids), congenital entropion (10 eyelids), and cicatrical entropion (6 eyelids). Surgery was re-performed on 16 eyelids due to recurrences from previous electrolysis or surgical correction of entropion such as capsulopalpebral fascia repair, full-thickness rotating suture, or folliculectomy. The two-step procedure was performed on all 31 eyelids, and 9 eyelids received additional excision of skin. After the 2-step procedure, patients showed improvement in symptoms, and all were satisfied with the contour of their eyelids. During the follow-up period, there were no recurrences or complications. CONCLUSION: A two-step procedure involving eyelid splitting and full-thickness everting sutures is an effective surgical method to treat entropion due to various causes, when compared with other conventional methods.