An ectropion is an outward turning of the lower eyelid causing the eyelashes to turn out resulting in irritation, stickiness and watering.
If the eyelid turns out the eye will water because the tear duct faces the wrong way. This can be quite irritating. The condition may result in drying and soreness of the inner surface of the eyelid.
Treatment for ectropion
No immediate care is available but it is important to avoid stretching the eyelid further by vigorous rubbing. To stop the surface of the eye drying out, apply lubricant drops or ointment.
An operation to tighten up the surrounding tissues and correct the position of the lid is the only permanent solution for an ectropion.
Your operation will be generally performed under local anaesthetic as a day-case.
You will be given an outpatient appointment for approximately 1 month after the operation. Any stitches will be removed at this appointment.
After the operation
Your eyelids may be swollen and they may become sticky. To clean the eye, use some cooled boiled water and tissue. Do not pull your eyelids when cleaning them, as this will loosen up the skin again.
It is very common to get some bruising following the operation that settles within a couple of weeks. Your eyelid may feel uncomfortable and tight following the operation but this usually settles with time. Discomfort over the outside edge of your eyelid may happen with some types of procedures. This will settle within a couple of months.
