Treatment of Ectropion eye

About the disease

Ectropion eye is a condition that causes the lower eyelid to turn or sag outward, revealing the orbital septum. This part of the eye is designed to remain moist so that the eyeball can move around in the socket. So, when the eyelid sags outward, the orbital septum becomes dry, which can cause irritation, and leaves it exposed to various infections. The lack of lubrication can also cause the eye to over compensate with tears and other discharges. If not treated in time, ectropion eye can cause damage to the cornea, which is why simple eye lubricants are not enough in advanced stages of this condition.

Although ectropion eye can be caused by certain injuries or facial paralysis, the most common cause of this condition is age. Other risk factors include having a stroke, developing skin cancer or a benign growth on the eyelid. Certain birth defects can also lead to ectropion eye; the most common of which being Down’s syndrome. People who have rapidly lost a significant amount of weight can also develop ectropion eye, as their facial muscles have not had time to adapt to the changes. Balanced and planned weight loss, however, is not likely to cause ectropion eye.

Although it is quite unusual for ectropion eye to develop in people younger than 70, those who have a genetic predisposition for it or who have had facial surgery or trauma may be at risk.

Symptoms

• Sagging eyelid
• Eye dryness
• Eye irritation
• Excessive tears
• Redness
• Sensitivity to light

Diagnosis

• Usually, an ophthalmologist can make a diagnosis of ectropion eye simply by examining the patient.
• The eyelid is examined with a special device that measures the extent of sagging.
• The doctor will also check for signs of inflammation, to rule out the possibility of infection.

Treatment

• Conservative treatment, such as lubricating eye drops, prepares the patient for surgery and provides relief from dryness and irritation.
• In order to protect the cornea, a skin tape can be used to temporarily lift the lower lid and hold it in place.
• Surgery usually resolves the problems related to ectropion eye. Part of the sagging lower eyelid is removed and a skin graft is performed if tissue scarring has occurred. Skin is taken from the upper eyelid or from behind the ear and is grafted onto the lower eyelid. Following surgery, the patient needs to wear a special eye patch for several days. Antibiotics may be prescribed, along with steroid ointment to prevent infection during the healing process. 

Authors: Dr. Nadezhda Ivanisova, Dr. Farrukh Ahmed