Eyelid ectropion occurs when the eyelid is turned out and the lid no longer works effectively to clear the tears from the eye. This can occur due to a variety of conditions, however, stretching of the eyelid tendons from age is the most common reason ectropion occurs. Common symptoms of ectropion include redness of the eye, tearing, and eye irritation.
Ectropion repair involves surgical rotation of the eyelid to return to the normal resting position on the eye. Ectropion surgery can be done by various techniques. Often, tightening of the stretched tendons in the lower and upper lids can assist in correction of the underlying problem. Dissolvable sutures are placed to hold the eyelid into position, which are broken down as the body takes over supporting the weight of the eyelid.
Ectropion repair can be done in the office surgical suite under light sedation. Patients can return home immediately after the procedure and resume nearly all normal daily activities the very next day.