Entropion is an inward rolling of the eyelid. The problem is most common in the Shar Pei, Chow Chow, Bulldog, Retrievers, Rottweiler, and Mastiffs. Although the exact genetic pattern is usually not known, the problem is most likely caused by many genes that are responsible for the overall head and face conformation. Therefore, we recommend that you do not breed animals affected by entropion since the problem can be passed to the offspring.

When the eyelids roll in, the hair on the outside of the lid rub on the surface of the eye and cause corneal irritation. In some patients, entropion leads to corneal ulceration.

Common symptoms associated with entropion include squinting, tearing, and rubbing.

The treatment for entropion is surgery to remove some skin and muscle along the eyelid margin. This is cosmetic surgery and after reconstructing the eyelid, the lids should look normal. The incision is closed with tiny absorbable sutures and you shouldn't be able to see a scar at all.

The permanent surgery is usually performed after the age of 4-6 months. Usually only one surgery is required but since the problem occurs in growing patients, we might have to perform further surgery when the affected dog is an adult. Fortunately, about 95% of patients require only one surgery. After the surgery, your dog should not be shown or bred since the problem is considered inherited in most breeds.