ECTROPION

In ectropion, unlike entropion, the eyelid turns outward away from the eye. Although it generally poses less of a direct threat to vision than entropion, it still increases the risk of chronic irritation and infection.

As with entropion, the most common cause of ectropion is age and the laxity of the eyelid tissues. However, it can be the result of trauma, scarring, previous surgery in the facial area, cancer, or the result of facial nerve palsy.

Depending on the degree, ectropion can cause:

• Tearing
• Redness
• Purulent discharge
• Photophobia
• Blurred vision

The treatment is surgical. In most cases, the surgery is performed under local anesthesia and the eyelid is shortened. However, depending on the cause, a skin graft may be needed.