Ectropion

When to get medical advice

Visit your GP if you think you have ectropion.

They'll be able to diagnose the problem by examining your eye, and can refer you to an eye specialist called an ophthalmologist for further assessment and treatment, if necessary.

Contact your GP or NHS 111 immediately, or go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department, if your eye is very red and painful or you have other symptoms, such as reduced vision or sensitivity to light.

This could be a sign of a more serious problem that requires urgent treatment.

What causes ectropion?

Most cases of ectropion are associated with ageing. It can occur as the tissues and muscles of the eyelids become weaker as you get older.

Less common causes of ectropion include:

• a problem with the nerves that control the eyelid – this is often seen in a type of facial paralysis called Bell's palsy
• a lump, cyst or tumour on the eyelid 
• damage to the skin around the eyelid as a result of an injury, a burn, a skin condition such as contact dermatitis, or previous surgery

Surgery for ectropion is a relatively minor procedure that takes up to 45 minutes and is usually carried out under local anaesthetic.

It's normally performed on an outpatient basis, which means you won't need to stay in hospital overnight.

Various different techniques can be used, depending on the severity of ectropion and its underlying cause.

Following surgery, a pad will be placed over your eye to protect it. This will need to remain in place for about a day.

A course of antibiotic and steroid drops or ointment will usually be prescribed to help prevent infection and reduce inflammation. 

You'll have a follow-up appointment a week or two after your operation. This is to check on the position of your eyelid and sometimes to remove any stitches.