Ectropion Repair
Ectropion is a condition in which the lower eyelid is turned away from the eye, leaving the eye exposed and dry. Untreated, this can lead to chronic tearing, eye irritation, redness, pain, crusting, discharge, damage to the cornea, and blurry vision.
Causes include age-related loosening of tissues, sun damaged skin, skin cancer, and previous surgery (e.g. transcutaneous lower blepharoplasty with too much skin removal). Ectropion may also occur as a result of facial nerve paralysis (due to Bell’s palsy, stroke or other neurological conditions).
Ectropion can be repaired surgically. Age-related ectropion is typically repaired by tightening the lower eyelid. Ectropion from other causes may need additional techniques such as rotational sutures, a skin graft, and a midface lift. Dr. Mettu will determine the best approach for surgical repair after a careful examination. The goal of surgery is to obtain a natural eyelid position that helps improve symptoms.