Eyelid Surgery

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Ectropian is the eversion of the lower lid associated with sagging. It is usually bilateral and is frequently found in older persons. Ectropian may be caused by relaxation of the orbicularis oculi muscle, either as a part of ageing or associated with a seventh nerve palsy. The symptoms are tearing and irritation. Surgical treatment is required to correct the lids.

Patients with ectropion have a sagging lower eyelid that leaves the eye exposed and dry.  It is caused by a lack of tone of the delicate muscles that hold the lid taut against the eye.  Excessive tearing is a common with ectropion, but wiping the tears away only causes the lid to sag more.  Ectropion is most common among people over the age of 60.  

Ectropion

Signs and Symptoms

  • Irritation

  • Burning

  • Gritty, sandy feeling

  • Excessive tearing

  • Red, irritated eyelid

 
Detection and Diagnosis

Ectropion can be diagnosed with a routine eye exam. 

 
Treatment

The irritation can be temporarily relieved with artificial tears and ointments to lubricate the eye; however, surgery to tighten the lid is usually necessary to correct this problem.