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 (Bell’s palsy), trauma, scarring, or previous surgeries.

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.

Who Should Perform Ectropion Surgery?

When choosing a surgeon to perform ectropion surgery, look for a cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgeon who specializes in the eyelids, orbit, and tear drain system. It’s also important that he or she has completed an American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) fellowship. This indicates your surgeon is not only a board certified ophthalmologist who knows the anatomy and structure of the eyelids and orbit, but also has had extensive training in ophthalmic plastic reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Dr. Shorr is Director of the Fellowship in Ophthalmic Plastic Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgery at the Jules Stein Eye Institute, UCLA School of Medicine. He and his associates are board certified ophthalmologists as well as ophthalmic plastic reconstructive and cosmetic surgeons who have completed an ASOPRS fellowship.
Visit our cosmetic surgery and reconstructive facial plastic surgery office located in Beverly Hills, near the Los Angeles area.
 

We specialize in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids and face, as well as non-surgical treatments and services. Our office is conveniently located in Beverly Hills, California (CA), near Los Angeles and bordered by Orange and Ventura Counties. Call us today for an appointment or for more information!

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