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Eyelid Malposition Repair
IN SAN DIEGO
Comfort restored. Eyelids realigned. Function and form in harmony.
Correct eyelid turning, relieve irritation, and restore natural lid alignment with eyelid malposition repair by Dr. Abboud at Oculofacial Surgical Arts in Del Mar. Improve comfort, reduce tearing, and protect the eyes—while achieving subtle, functional results that preserve facial symmetry and natural expression.
What is Eyelid Malposition Repair?
Eyelid malposition occurs when the eyelid no longer rests in proper contact with the surface of the eye, compromising both function and appearance. Depending on the type of malposition, this can lead to corneal exposure, chronic tearing, irritation, dry eyes, or damage to the ocular surface.
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Dr. Abboud performs ectropion repair, entropion repair, and eyelid retraction surgery to reposition the eyelid into proper alignment. These procedures differ from cosmetic eyelid surgery in that they are often medically necessary and are primarily aimed at protecting eye health and improving comfort.
Am I a Candidate for Eyelid Malposition Repair?
You may be a candidate for eyelid malposition repair if you experience:
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Outward-turning lower eyelid (ectropion)
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Inward-turning eyelid with lashes rubbing the eye (entropion)
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Excessive white showing above or below the iris (eyelid retraction)
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Persistent tearing, eye redness, or dryness
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Irritation, foreign body sensation, or corneal exposure
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Facial nerve weakness or history of trauma or prior eyelid surgery
Eyelid malpositions can result from age-related changes, facial nerve palsy, trauma, prior surgery, thyroid eye disease, or scarring. A consultation with Dr. Abboud will determine the underlying cause and best surgical approach.
Benefits of Eyelid Malposition Repair
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Restores normal eyelid position and protects the ocular surface
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Reduces tearing, irritation, and foreign body sensation
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Improves visual comfort and safety
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Enhances eyelid symmetry and facial balance
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Prevents long-term corneal damage from exposure
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Minimally visible scarring with natural healing
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Insurance coverage is often available for functional cases
Why Choose Us for Eyelid Malpositon Repair?
Dr. Jean-Paul Abboud is a fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic surgeon with specialized expertise in treating both functional and cosmetic eyelid disorders. His advanced training in ophthalmic microsurgery allows him to deliver results that not only improve comfort and eye protection but also restore natural aesthetics.
Patients choose Dr. Abboud for his:
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Fellowship training in eyelid malposition and reconstructive eyelid surgery
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Expertise in customizing techniques for ectropion, entropion, and retraction
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Emphasis on subtle, precise correction to preserve facial harmony
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Accredited surgical suite in San Diego for a safe and seamless experience
The Procedure: Eyelid Malposition Repair
The surgical technique used will depend on the type and severity of the eyelid malposition, as well as the underlying cause:
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Ectropion Repair
Involves tightening the lower eyelid (often with a lateral canthoplasty) to restore contact with the eye. In cases where the eyelid ectropion is cased by excessive scarring, a skin graft may be used.
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Entropion Repair
The eyelid is rotated outward using a lower eyelid retractor repositioning or everting sutures, relieving lash irritation. May be combined with lid tightened.
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Eyelid Retraction Repair
Involves placing a spacer graft (such as ear cartilage or a biocompatible collagen implant) to support the lower or upper eyelid and restore its natural height. This may be combined with scar release or eyelid tightening, depending on the underlying cause.
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These procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation and are completed in under an hour. In more complex cases, multiple stages or additional procedures may be recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes eyelid malposition?
Aging, trauma, scarring, facial nerve weakness, or thyroid eye disease can lead to entropion, ectropion, or eyelid retraction.
How do I know if I need surgery?
If you experience tearing, irritation, eye dryness, or visible eyelid turning or asymmetry, you may be a candidate. A clinical exam and testing can confirm the diagnosis.
Will insurance cover this surgery?
Yes—when symptoms affect eye health or function, eyelid malposition repair is considered medically necessary and may be covered.
Will I be awake during surgery?
Most procedures are done with local anesthesia and sedation. You’ll be comfortable and pain-free throughout.
Are scars visible?
No. Incisions are typically hidden within natural eyelid creases or on the inside of the eyelid and become virtually invisible once healed.
Are the results permanent?
Results are long-lasting. However, further aging or medical conditions may lead to future adjustments.
Your Eyelid Malposition Repair Recovery
After eyelid malposition surgery, patients can expect:
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Mild swelling or bruising for 5–7 days
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Cold compresses and head elevation to reduce swelling
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Return to non-strenuous activities in 2–3 days
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Suture removal (if applicable) in about a week
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Avoiding heavy lifting or exercise for 1–2 weeks
Most patients notice improved eye comfort and appearance within the first few weeks, with continued refinement over time.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to replace a medical consultation, nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Each individual’s treatment and/or results will vary, and no guarantee is stated or implied by any photo or statement used on this website.
Schedule Your Eyelid Malposition Repair Consultation
If you're experiencing irritation, tearing, or asymmetry from eyelid turning or retraction, eyelid malposition repair can restore comfort, function, and natural alignment. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Abboud at Oculofacial Surgical Arts in Del Mar to discuss your personalized treatment options.