Ectropion occurs when the lower eyelid droops away from the eye and turns outwards.
The condition is common and can affect anyone, but it most often occurs in older people. It can affect either eyelid or both at the same time.
Ectropion can lead to a watery eye, which may also become red and sore as the tears cannot drain away (see Symptoms, above).
What is the cause?
The most common cause of ectropion is a weakening of the tendon at the outer corner of the eye, which supports the lower eyelid. Also, the muscle of the lower eyelid becomes slack over time. This is why ectropion happens in older people.
It can be caused by injury to the skin around the eye or a condition called Bell's palsy (see Causes, above).
Ectropion cannot be prevented.
How serious is it?
Ectropion ranges from a subtle slackness of the lower lid to severe drooping of the whole lid from the eyeball. It may leave the surface of the eye exposed, making it vulnerable to infection.
If ectropion is not treated, it may lead to exposure of the cornea or, in more serious cases, an ulcer and possibly loss of vision.
Ectropion is usually treated with surgery to tighten the lower eyelid (see Treatment, above).
Once any swelling and bruising has settled after surgery, the eyelids will feel more comfortable and appear more natural.
