Entropion & Ectropion: Eyelid Abnormalities in Dogs
When eyelids roll inward or sag outward, the eye suffers. Surgical correction restores comfort and prevents permanent damage.
Entropion is when the eyelid rolls inward, causing eyelashes and skin to rub against the cornea. Ectropion is when the eyelid sags outward, exposing the conjunctiva to drying and infection. Both conditions cause chronic discomfort and can damage the eye if left untreated.
Key Points
- Entropion causes corneal ulcers, scarring, and pigmentary keratitis from chronic rubbing
- Ectropion leads to chronic conjunctivitis and tear overflow onto the face
- Both conditions have strong genetic components in certain breeds
- Surgical correction is highly successful and permanently corrects the problem
- Puppies may have temporary entropion that resolves as they grow
- Early correction prevents irreversible corneal damage
Entropion: Inward-Rolling Eyelids
In entropion, the eyelid margin and lashes turn inward against the cornea. This causes constant mechanical irritation. Breeds commonly affected include Shar-Peis, Chow Chows, Bulldogs, Rottweilers, and Labradors. It can affect upper or lower lids, or both. Some puppies have temporary entropion due to excessive skin folding that resolves by 6 months. Permanent entropion requires surgery to remove a small skin strip and tighten the lid.
Ectropion: Outward-Sagging Eyelids
Ectropion causes the lower eyelid to sag away from the eye, exposing the conjunctiva. This leads to chronic exposure conjunctivitis and overflow of tears onto the face (epiphora). Common in Basset Hounds, Bloodhounds, Cocker Spaniels, and Saint Bernards. The exposed conjunctiva becomes thickened and red. Secondary infections are common. Tear staining on the face is a cosmetic concern.
Diagnosis & Surgical Planning
Diagnosis is made by visual inspection. Your veterinarian measures the degree of lid deviation and checks for corneal damage with fluorescein stain. For entropion, the Hotz-Celsus procedure removes a crescent of skin and muscle to tighten the lid. For ectropion, a wedge resection or medial canthoplasty tightens the lid. Both surgeries are performed under general anesthesia and have high success rates.
Recovery & Long-Term Outlook
Post-operative care includes an e-collar for 2 weeks, antibiotic ointment, and pain medication. Sutures are removed at 10-14 days. Most dogs show immediate relief from chronic irritation. Corneal damage heals within weeks once the mechanical irritation stops. The surgery permanently corrects the anatomical defect. Some dogs with extreme facial wrinkling (Shar-Peis) may need repeat procedures.
When to See a Vet Immediately
- Your dog's eyelid appears to roll inward against the eye
- There's constant tearing or wetness on the face
- The eye is red with frequent blinking or squinting
- The lower eyelid sags noticeably away from the eye
- There's brown staining on the fur below the eye
How RVC Can Help
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is showing any symptoms, please contact Royal Veterinary Center immediately at +853 6677 6611.