Ingrown eyelashes cause corneal scratches

Thao’s right eye is often red, watery and irritated when the weather changes. The doctor diagnosed recurring conjunctivitis, the eyelids tend to roll inward but mildly, not rubbing too closely. Recently, eyelashes have become stiffer, the edge of the eyelashes curls inward, rubbing directly on the cornea, causing discomfort.

Dr. Nguyen Duc Huy, High-Tech Eye Center, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, said Thao had congenital entropion – an abnormality that appears from birth due to the unbalanced development of the skin, muscles and eyelid cartilage.

Entropion can appear at many ages, in which children are susceptible to congenital entropion because the orbicularis oculi muscle and eyelid cartilage are weak and easily push the eyelid inward. Children with mild entropion can improve on their own as they grow older, but structural abnormalities cause Thao’s eyelids to continue to roll inward over time. Thao’s eyesight is not affected much (right eye 8/10, left eye 10/10) but causes difficulty in activities and loss of aesthetics.

The doctor observed through the slit lamp and noted that the baby’s cornea had many shallow scratches, the epithelium was damaged, and there was a risk of infection and scarring.

The doctor prescribed surgery to correct the lower eyelid of the right eye, bringing the eyelid margin to the correct anatomical position. In about 30 minutes, the doctor performs cosmetic stitches to turn the eyelids outward, while ensuring that the curvature and growth direction of the eyelashes return to normal.

After surgery, Thao was instructed to use anti-inflammatory drops, wear eye protection, and avoid strenuous exercise. A day later, the baby can open his eyes easily and no longer feels uncomfortable. After 7 days of follow-up examination, the cornea recovered, the scratches gradually decreased, the baby could participate in outdoor activities, and it was more convenient for him to study and live.

Entropion is common but is often confused with conjunctivitis or sand or dust falling into the eye. When children have signs such as red eyes, prolonged tearing, frequent squinting, scratchy eyes, blurred vision… parents should take their children to medical facilities with ophthalmology expertise for timely examination and treatment.