An ectropion is an abnormality of the lid that causes the lid to turn outward, away from its normal position, resting against the eyeball. The ectropion can occur in one or both lids, usually a lower but sometimes an upper lid. The ectropion can produce mild irritation to the eye but in some cases can be a serious threat to the health of the eye.

The eyes require a certain amount of moisture to remain healthy and to see properly. When you are awake the lids with their blinking action rewet the surface of the eye with moisture and remove the debris that accumulates. When you are asleep the eyelids cover the eye and prevent dryness. With an ectropion the moisturizing affect and the protective affect at night can be disturbed. This can lead to dryness, ulcer formation and infection.

The most common symptoms with an ectropion are tearing, or wet eye and eye or eyelid irritation. Some patients with an ectropion may have little to no symptoms. As the ectropion becomes very severe and lids pull away from the eye the foreign body sensation and irritation can become more severe and the eyes can appear quite red and irritated.

Ectropions can be present at birth or congenital. They can be seen after seventh nerve palsy also known as Bell’s palsy. Typically the most common cause is part of the aging process. With aging, the muscles that normally keep the lids tight against the eyeball tend to lose this capacity and the lids tend to pull away from the eyelids particularly when you bend over. Ectropions can also occur from surgery or due to cuts around the eyelids. Occasionally they can be seen due to eyelid tumors and with certain types of allergic eye conditions.

Treatment.

In mild cases Artificial Tears as needed can suffice particularly if there are no cosmetic issues or problems. If the eyelid starts to turn out too much particularly if there is dryness, irritation and any ulcer formation then lid surgery is performed to correct this problem.