A Closer Look at Ectropion Treatment Options
- Posted on: Sep 15 2023
Ectropion is when the eyelid begins to sag and turn outward. It usually appears on the bottom eyelid and is pink or red in color. This can lead to other symptoms, such as dry eye, soreness, and irritation, and it can also cause low self-esteem. Explore some of the ectropion treatment options offered by Dr. Daniel Tresley.
What Causes Ectropion?
Potential causes of ectropion include:
- Muscles under the eye have weakened, causing the eyelid to sag.
- Facial paralysis that affects the eyelid.
- Previous injuries to the eyelid.
- Previous surgeries to the eyelid where excess skin was removed.
- Cancerous growths on or near the eyelid.
What Happens if Ectropion Goes Untreated?
Ectropion can cause various symptoms, including soreness, irritation, and watery or dry eyes. It can leave you vulnerable to bacterial infections such as conjunctivitis. Furthermore, if it becomes severe, you may be at risk of corneal abrasions and ulcers, a sore on the cornea.
Conservative Treatment Options
If you believe you may have ectropion, Dr. Tresley will likely choose to start with a conservative treatment plan to avoid a surgical procedure unless necessary.
Eye ointments and eye drops will likely be the first treatment options you try for ectropion. An eye ointment can help keep the eyes lubricated, preventing dry eyes, irritation, and discomfort. You may also need to wear a moisture shield over the affected eye at night.
It would also be best to be mindful about wiping or itching your eye. When you rub your eye, you can stretch the skin and further irritate your eyelid.
Surgical Solutions
There are a few different surgical procedures that your doctor could choose depending on how severe your condition is or how you developed ectropion.
Aging
If the muscle and tissue have begun to sag due to the natural process of aging, your doctor may recommend removing part of the eyelid to tighten the skin and bring the eyelid back toward your eye.
Scar Tissue or Trauma
In cases where ectropion is caused by scarring or a previous surgery where too much skin was removed, you may need to have skin grafted onto the lower lid to support it and bring it back upward.
Schedule a Consultation
Patients looking for treatment for ectropion in Northbrook, IL, or the surrounding areas, can count on Dr. Daniel Tresley. As a board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Tresley can provide compassionate and high-quality care. Contact his office today at (847) 291-6900 or submit an online contact form.
Posted in: Ectropion Treatment
