The treatment of Ectropion
What is Ectropion?
Ectropion is the condition where the lower eyelid turns outward, causing the eye and its mucous membrane to be exposed to the air, leading to dryness. The person with this condition experiences excessive tearing, and when the tears are wiped away, the eye becomes even drier. If left untreated, this condition can cause thickening of the inner eyelid lining, resulting in inflammation and, ultimately, damage to the eye.
The causes of Ectropion
The cause of ectropion is muscle weakness, which normally keeps the eyelid in its proper position. This condition is commonly seen in individuals over the age of 60, but it can also be congenital, result from scarring due to previous surgical procedures, or occur following facial nerve paralysis (Bell’s palsy) and due to burns or other skin conditions.
Symptoms of Ectropion
Symptoms of ectropion include burning, a sensation of grittiness in the eye, sensitivity, swollen and inflamed eyelids, redness, and excessive tearing from the eye.
The treatment of Ectropion.
The choice of the best treatment for ectropion depends on its cause. Temporary treatment for this condition includes using artificial tear drops or soothing ointments. However, the definitive treatment, especially for age-related ectropion, involves eyelid surgery to shorten and tighten it. This surgical procedure typically involves making an incision on the outer part of the eye. Only small stitches are used during this surgery, which are usually removed 7 to 14 days after the procedure.
