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Ectropion means that the lower eyelid is “rolled out” away from the eye or is sagging away from the eye. The sagging lower eyelid leaves the eye exposed and dry. If ectropion is not treated, the condition can lead to chronic tearing, eye irritation, redness, pain, a gritty feeling, crusting of the eyelid, mucous discharge, and breakdown of the cornea due to exposure.
What Causes Ectropion?
Generally the condition is the result of tissue relaxation associated with aging, although it may also occur as a result of facial nerve paralysis (due to Bell’s palsy, stroke or other neurologic conditions), trauma, scarring, previous surgeries or skin cancer.
What Are The Symptoms?
The wet, inner, conjunctival surface is exposed and visible. Normally, the upper and lower eyelids close tightly, protecting the eye from damage and preventing tear evaporation. If the edge of one eyelid turns outward, the two eyelids cannot meet properly and tears are not spread evenly over the eye. Symptoms may include excessive tearing, chronic irritation, redness, pain, a gritty feeling, crusting of the eyelid and mucous discharge.
Can Ectropion Be Repaired?
Yes, ectropion can be repaired surgically. Most patients experience immediate resolution of the problem once surgery is completed with little, if any, post-operative discomfort. After your eyelid heals, your eye will feel comfortable and be protected from corneal scarring, infection, and loss of vision.
As a board-certified, fellowship trained oculoplastic surgeon with extensive training and experience, Dr. Selena Fu customizes each treatment to reflect each patient’s unique anatomy, skin condition, aesthetic concerns and lifestyle— an approach that consistently delivers excellent results for her patients.
Call for a personal consultation today, Dr. Fu will discuss the surgical and non-surgical options that will provide your best possible outcome. Insurance may cover all or a portion of reconstructive eyelid surgeries such as ectropion.
Ectropion is a condition where the lower eyelid turns outward, causing the eye to be overexposed and unable to close properly. This can lead to dryness, irritation, excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and chronic inflammation. If left untreated, it may result in corneal damage or infection. The goal of ectropion surgery is to restore the eyelid to its normal position, protect the eye, and improve both function and appearance.
✔ Medical Evaluation – The doctor will examine the degree of eyelid laxity, tarsal plate structure, tear function, and overall eye health.
✔ Discussion of Surgical Options – The oculoplastic surgeon will determine the best procedure based on the severity of ectropion, which may include eyelid tightening, suture correction, or skin grafting.
✔ Pre-Surgery Instructions –
⏳ Duration: Ectropion surgery typically takes 30-60 minutes and is performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
🔹 Eyelid Tightening Surgery – The most common procedure, where excess eyelid tissue is removed and the tendons are tightened to reposition the eyelid.
🔹 Suture Correction (Non-Incisional Procedure) – Used for mild ectropion, where sutures are placed to slightly invert the eyelid without incisions.
🔹 Skin Grafting – Suitable for severe cases caused by scarring or previous surgery, where skin or mucous membrane is grafted to lengthen the lower eyelid.
🔹 Tarsal Plate Repair – Used when muscle weakness or tissue damage is the primary cause, reinforcing eyelid support structures.
✔ Mild Swelling & Bruising – Swelling, bruising, and minor discomfort are normal in the first 1-2 weeks and will gradually subside.
✔ Use of Antibiotic Ointment – Helps prevent infection and promotes healing.
✔ Avoid Rubbing the Eyes – The eyelid is still healing, so avoid touching or pulling the area.
✔ Wear Sunglasses – Protects the eyes from direct sunlight and wind after surgery.
✔ Gradual Return to Normal Activities –
✔ Follow-Up Appointments – The doctor will monitor recovery to ensure the eyelid remains stable.
⚠ Temporary Blurred Vision – Some patients experience mild blurry vision due to swelling, which usually clears within a few days.
⚠ Dry or Watery Eyes – Tear production may be temporarily increased or decreased, usually resolving within a few weeks.
⚠ Eyelid Asymmetry – In rare cases, the eyelid may appear slightly uneven, but this typically does not affect function.
⚠ Recurrence of Ectropion – If the underlying cause persists (e.g., scarring, facial nerve issues), ectropion may recur and require additional treatment.
Since ectropion surgery is considered a medically necessary procedure, insurance may cover part or all of the costs. Check with your provider for specific coverage details.
✅ Ectropion surgery is a safe and effective procedure that restores normal eyelid function and prevents corneal damage.
📌 Recovery is typically quick, with most patients resuming daily activities within 1-2 weeks.
💡 If you have symptoms of ectropion, consult an oculoplastic surgeon to determine the best treatment plan and prevent long-term eye complications.
Ectropion surgery is a corrective procedure that restores the lower eyelid to its normal position when it turns outward. This surgery helps protect the eye, reduce irritation, and prevent long-term complications such as corneal damage.
You may need ectropion surgery if you experience:
✔ Persistent eye irritation or redness due to eyelid exposure.
✔ Excessive tearing and discomfort caused by improper eyelid positioning.
✔ Chronic dryness, inflammation, or eye infections.
✔ Corneal damage or ulcers from prolonged exposure.
✔ No improvement from temporary treatments like lubricating drops or skin tape.
Ectropion can be caused by:
✔ Aging – Loss of eyelid muscle tone leading to sagging.
✔ Scarring – Injury or previous surgery that tightens the skin.
✔ Facial Nerve Paralysis – Conditions like Bell’s palsy affecting eyelid control.
✔ Congenital conditions – Some people are born with ectropion.
The surgical approach depends on the severity and cause:
🔹 Eyelid Tightening Surgery – Removes excess tissue and tightens the eyelid.
🔹 Suture Correction (Non-Incisional Procedure) – Uses stitches to reposition the eyelid.
🔹 Skin Grafting – For severe cases due to scarring or burns, skin from another area is used to reconstruct the eyelid.
🔹 Tarsal Plate Reinforcement – Strengthens weak eyelid structures.
No, the procedure is done under local anesthesia, which numbs the area. You may feel pressure but not pain during surgery. Mild discomfort after surgery is manageable with pain relievers.
The procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on complexity.
✔ Use antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
✔ Avoid rubbing or touching the eye area.
✔ Wear sunglasses to protect the eyelid from sun exposure.
✔ Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
✔ Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least a week.
Most patients can return to light work within a few days, but avoid heavy lifting or physical exertion for at least a week.
There may be a small scar, but it usually fades over time. If necessary, scar treatments can improve appearance.
⚠ Temporary swelling, bruising, or blurred vision.
⚠ Scarring (minimal in most cases).
⚠ Eyelid asymmetry (rare, but may require minor correction).
⚠ Recurrence of ectropion (if the underlying cause persists).
If the surgery is medically necessary (to protect the eye and prevent corneal damage), insurance may cover it. Cosmetic procedures may not be covered.
Ectropion can occasionally recur, especially if caused by progressive aging or scarring. A second procedure may be needed in rare cases.
If you have symptoms of ectropion, schedule an appointment with an oculoplastic surgeon to evaluate your condition and discuss treatment options.
💡 Ectropion surgery is a safe and effective procedure that restores normal eyelid function.
✅ Most patients recover quickly with minimal discomfort and long-term improvement.
📌 Consult with a specialist if you experience symptoms to prevent long-term eye complications.