Ectropion Repair

Even minor issues with the eyelid’s position can become problematic. With ectropion, patients may not only experience cosmetic concerns but also physical symptoms such as discomfort. As a board-certified ophthalmologist and eyelid specialist, Dr. Christina Choe provides safe and reliable ectropion repair for patients in the Western North Carolina region.

What Is Ectropion?

When the eyelid turns outward, this is called ectropion. The condition can be due to a range of reasons, including:

Congenital, meaning you were born with it
Scarring that pulls the eyelids out of position
Paralysis of the facial muscles from conditions like Bell palsy
Aging (most common cause)

As the lower lid gets looser with time, it can cause the tears to not drain properly contributing to tearing and irritation. It can also cause the lining of the inner eyelid to be exposed, red, and inflamed. In addition to these physical symptoms, the outward-turned eyelid can pose a cosmetic concern. Professional treatment can both alleviate symptoms and restore a natural appearance to the eyelid.

Play Video about Ectropion Repair

How Do We Treat Ectropion?

To repair ectropion, Dr. Choe will tighten the eyelid using sutures through a tiny incision in the outer corner of the eyelid. Additional sutures may be used to rotate the inner corner inward. If needed due to a prior scar, a skin graft may be used to relieve the tension caused by the scar and help reposition the eyelid.

The preoperative evaluation is critical to determine which surgical elements you may need to correct your condition. One or more of these surgical elements may be combined to perform your ectropion repair. After surgery, the incisions made in the eyelid are closed with stitches.

What Is Ectropion Repair Like?

This is an outpatient surgery (you may go home the same day). To perform this surgery, Dr. Choe begins by making skin markings to ensure the eyelid will be properly adjusted. In most cases, local anesthesia is sufficient and will be injected around the sites to be operated on. This quick injection typically is experienced as a pinch and a burn. The eyelid will then become completely numb, preventing any pain during the procedure. The outward turning of the eyelid is corrected and the skin and/or conjunctiva are then closed with fine sutures.

Ectropion Repair Recovery

Recovery is typically quick and mild. Avoid strenuous activity and take care not to damage or irritate the surgical sites. Dr. Choe will provide you with a full list of instructions, including any medications to take or eye drops to use. Swelling and discomfort are normal at first, but they should gradually fade.

Visit for a Consultation

If you believe you have a case of ectropion, the next step is to set up a consultation and evaluation with Dr. Choe. As a fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon, she has extensive experience working with the delicate structures around the eyes, and she has the experience and expertise to identify your concerns and create an optimal treatment plan. Learn more about your condition and see if ectropion repair is right for you.