In this deformity the diseased lid is inverted or turned inwards, so that the eyelashes are brought in contact with the sensitive conjunctiva, causing considerable pain and inflammation, with an excessive secretion of tears. The only effective remedy is the performance of an operation, which consists in taking away a portion of skin a little distance from the edge of the diseased lid, and running parallel to it, for the whole distance of the inverted part. The lips of the wound are then brought together by sutures in such a way as to pull the inverted lid outwards, and keep it in that position until the wound artificially made heals. On this being completed, the eyelid is found to occupy its natural position, and the trouble ceases.

Fig. 249. - Entropium or In-turned Eyelid.

1, Normal Eye. 2, Eye affected with Entropium (the in-turned lashes shown at a). 3, Eye affected with Entropium (front view).

Fig. 250. - Ectropium or Everted Eyelid.

Fig. 251. - Ectropium or Everted Eyelid (Front View).