ECTROPIoN REPAIR

(SURGICAL CORRECTION OF OUTWARDLY TURNED EYELID)

An ectropion is an outwardly turned (everted) eyelid. This condition is most often associated with the aging process and the weakening of the connective tissue of the eyelid. It can also be a result of scarring from other surgeries or secondary to facial nerve paralysis (such as Bell’s palsy). As the eye may become exposed and red.

When the lower eyelid is turned outward it no longer touches the eye. As a result, the eyelid cannot properly spread the tear film across the eye which leads to poor drainage of tears. Many patients also experience dryness and irritation due to the exposed surface of the eye.

TREATMENT

Ectropion repair is an outpatient surgical procedure where the surgeon elects to shorten and tighten the lower lid, thereby resolving the outwardly turned lid.

The procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes per eye. Typically, there is an almost immediate resolution of the condition.