Ectropion - Treating ectropion

Treatment may not be needed in mild cases of ectropion.

How the condition is managed will depend on its severity and the underlying cause.

Eye drops or ointments may be recommended to reduce inflammation in your lower eyelid and help keep your eye lubricated.

Surgery

In some cases, an operation may be needed to tighten the lower eyelid.

This is a relatively minor procedure that takes about 45 minutes and is carried out under local anaesthetic. It’s usually carried out on an outpatient basis which means that you won’t need to stay in hospital overnight.

In cases where ectropion is caused by scarring from an injury or from previous surgery, a more extensive operation, such as a skin graft, may be needed.

This will involve removing a section of skin, either from your top eyelid or the back of your ear, and attaching it under your lower eyelid to support it. You may be given a sedative (medication to help you relax).

Following surgery, a pad will be placed over your eye to prevent inflammation. It will need to remain in place for at least a day. Antibiotic drops or ointment will usually be prescribed to help prevent infection.

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