Introduction: Despite being different clinical entities, ectropion and entropion present similar pathogenesis and can be treated based in common principles. Lateral Tarsal Strip Technique (LTS) is a simple procedure to treat ectropion and entropion of multiple causes.

Methods: We present a series of case reports that example the versatility of LTS: involutional ectropion, involutional entropion, and facial palsy.

Results/discussion: In ectropion and ectropion, the increase of horizontal and vertical tissue laxity are responsible for the unbalanced forces that define the abnormal lid position. LTS directly shortens the horizontal dimension of the lower lid and, indirectly, shortens the diagonal dimension of septum orbitale and lid retractours. This way, both horizontal and vertical heights are reduced, and lacrimal point repositioned. Patients with facial palsy have upper and lower lid retraction, associated with horizontal laxity, leading to lower lid ectropion, lagopthalmos and risk of keratitis. LTS decreases the lid vertical aperture with benefits in ocular protection, lubrication and tear clearing.

Conclusion: LTS is a simple technique that can be used for correction of lower lid ectropion and entropion of different ethiology, allowing rapid rehabilitation and good functional and aesthetical results. It can be combined with other techniques, when needed, for ideal result achievement.