About the Procedure
Ectropion is an outward turning or sagging of the lower eyelid so that it no longer rests against the eye. This can expose the inner eyelid surface, interfere with normal tear drainage, and leave the eye dry, red, watery, and irritated. Common causes include age-related eyelid laxity, facial nerve weakness, scarring of the eyelid skin, and previous surgery or trauma.
Ectropion surgery tightens or repositions the eyelid so it sits correctly against the eye again. The specific technique depends on the cause, which is why the eyelid, its support, and the surrounding skin are carefully assessed before surgery.
At Norelle Health, ectropion repair focuses on restoring eyelid position and protecting the ocular surface, with care coordinated with ophthalmology when appropriate.
Who may be a candidate
Ectropion surgery may be considered for people who have:
- A visibly sagging or out-turned lower eyelid
- Chronic tearing, irritation, redness, or dryness
- Exposure of the eye surface that does not improve with lubrication
- Ectropion related to aging, facial nerve weakness, scarring, or prior surgery
The cause is identified first, since age-related laxity, nerve weakness, and scarring are repaired in different ways.
How it is performed
For age-related ectropion, the eyelid is usually tightened at its outer attachment to restore proper tension. When scarring of the skin is pulling the eyelid down, additional skin or a graft may be needed to release and resurface the eyelid. When facial nerve weakness is the cause, the repair addresses eyelid support and may be combined with other eyelid procedures.
The procedure is commonly performed under local anesthesia with sedation, often in an outpatient setting.
Considering ectropion surgery? The next step is a quiet, unhurried conversation.
Recovery and aftercare
Cold compresses, head elevation, and lubricating drops or ointment help with early swelling, bruising, and surface dryness. Stitches are removed or dissolve within roughly one to two weeks.
Most people return to light activity within one to two weeks, while rubbing the eye and strenuous activity are avoided during early healing.
Risks and alternatives
Possible risks include swelling, bruising, asymmetry, overcorrection or undercorrection, recurrence, and temporary surface irritation.
Alternatives, especially for mild cases, include lubricating drops and ointment, taping, and treating eyelid skin inflammation, although these manage symptoms rather than correct the eyelid position. The right approach depends on severity and cause.
Results and follow-up
The goal is an eyelid that rests correctly against the eye, with relief of tearing and irritation and better protection of the eye surface. Results are usually durable, though ectropion can recur, particularly with ongoing eyelid laxity.
Follow-up confirms healing and eyelid position and monitors the eye surface, with coordination with an eye specialist when appropriate.
Considering ectropion surgery? The next step is a quiet, unhurried conversation.
Clinical references
Medical review
This page is a patient-education resource reviewed by the responsible Norelle Health clinician before publication. It does not replace an in-person evaluation. If symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, seek immediate medical care.
Candidacy & Evaluation
Considering ectropion surgery? The next step is a quiet, unhurried conversation.
Recovery & Aftercare
Specialists who perform ectropion surgery
Dr. Moustafa Mourad
MD, FACS
Double Board-Certified Head & Neck and Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Dr. Moustafa Mourad is a double board-certified head and neck and facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who cares for the full range of cosmetic and complex conditions affecting the face, head, and neck.
- Facial plastic and reconstructive surgery
- Head and neck cancer surgery
- Microvascular free-flap reconstruction
- Facial trauma and reconstruction
Also caring for this area
Not sure who to see? Our patient coordination team can help match you with the right specialist.
(212) 444-8006Frequently Asked Questions
Ectropion is an outward turning or sagging of the lower eyelid so that it no longer rests against the eye, which can cause tearing, irritation, and dryness.
Common causes include age-related loosening of the eyelid, facial nerve weakness, scarring of the eyelid skin, and previous surgery or trauma.
Mild cases may be eased with lubricating drops, ointment, or taping, but these manage symptoms rather than correct the eyelid position. Surgery is the definitive treatment when the eyelid is turned out.
Most often the eyelid is tightened to restore proper tension. When scarring or nerve weakness is the cause, additional steps such as a skin graft or added eyelid support may be needed.
It can be. Facial nerve weakness reduces the support of the lower eyelid and can allow it to turn outward, which is one reason the cause is identified before surgery.
Bruising and swelling are common for one to two weeks. Lubricating drops or ointment are often used, and most people return to light activity within that time.
Yes. Ectropion can recur, particularly when there is ongoing eyelid laxity, and follow-up helps monitor the eyelid position over time.
Ectropion is an outward turning of the eyelid, while entropion is an inward turning that lets the lashes rub against the eye. Each is repaired in a different way.
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