Ectropion Houston

Ectropion is a condition in which the eyelid margin is rolled outwards away from the eye. As a result, the eyelid and the eye are exposed to the environment causing dryness, irritation and pain. The inside of the eyelid is visible, red and irritated and leads to excessive tearing, discharge and breakdown of the corneal surface. If left untreated, it can result in corneal and eye infections or ulcers and, eventually, blindness.

UNDERSTANDING ECTROPION

Ectropion occurs most commonly due to age-related weakening of certain eyelid muscles and laxity of eyelid tendons. As with any aging process, the physiognomy of each individual, genetic susceptibility and the interplay of environmental factors have a role to play in its manifestation.

In other cases, ectropion can be secondary to trauma, previous surgeries, conditions that cause scarring, tumors or neurologic disorders. In children, this can be a congenital condition that is an isolated finding or together with other systemic abnormalities.

Dr. Sami and all of us at Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery work collaboratively with our patients towards creating a personalized plan that is tailored to fit each patient’s unique needs.

We encourage you to take a few minutes to learn more about other conditions listed in the Eyelid Malpositions section.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sami, please do not hesitate to contact us at 713-668-1264 so we can help enhance your life.

CAUSES OF ECTROPION

Ectropion can result from various factors, including:

• Aging: As we age, the muscles and tissues around the eyelid may weaken.
• Facial paralysis: Conditions like Bell’s palsy can cause muscle weakness, affecting the eyelid.
• Scar tissue: Previous surgeries, injuries, or burns can lead to ectropion.
• Congenital defects: Some individuals may be born with ectropion due to abnormal eyelid development.

SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS

Ectropion can cause several symptoms, including:

• Excessive tearing
• Chronic eye irritation
• Redness of the eye
• Sensitivity to light and wind
• Dryness or crusting of the eyelid

A comprehensive eye examination by an experienced oculofacial surgeon, such as Dr. Sami, can accurately diagnose ectropion. This may involve assessing the eyelid’s position and evaluating any underlying causes contributing to the condition.

BENEFITS OF ECTROPION SURGERY

Ectropion surgery offers several benefits, including:

• Improved eye comfort and reduced irritation
• Enhanced protection of the eye surface
• Prevention of further damage to the cornea
• Improved tear drainage and reduced excessive tearing
• Enhanced cosmetic appearance of the eyelid

Our specialized ectropion procedures in Houston aim to deliver both functional and aesthetic improvements.

THE PROCEDURE

Ectropion can be surgically repaired and the surgical technique is dependent on the cause as well as the severity and chronicity of the presentation. The most common surgical procedure involves tightening of the eyelid and its attachments in order to restore the eyelid to its normal position. The surgery can be performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. Patients typically recover quickly and experience excellent resolution of the condition following surgery.

Ectropion repair, just like any eyelid procedure, begins with a thorough knowledge of periorbital structures together with a unique and customized approach to each individual patient. Remember, no two eyes are the same, let alone any two faces.

THE RECOVERY PROCESS 

Recovery from ectropion surgery is typically smooth, with most patients noticing significant improvements within a few weeks. Post-operative care includes using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation, applying cold compresses to minimize swelling, and avoiding strenuous activities. Keeping the head elevated, especially while sleeping, also aids in healing. 

WHY CHOOSE DR. SAMI

Dr. Sami carefully customizes her operative plan for each patient, taking into account their unique features such as facial symmetry, shape of the eye, position of fat pads, skin quality, muscle tone, dry eye problems and position of eyeball in relation to the facial bones. Based on her preoperative assessment and the needs and expectations of each patient, she ensures her surgical plan is carried out with compassionate care to yield fantastic results.

At Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, we pride ourselves on our compassionate patient care, our sensitivity and understanding of each patient’s needs and expectations and our drive for excellence. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones feel welcome, comfortable and 100% satisfied with your experience.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sami, please do not hesitate to contact us at 713-668-1264 so we can help enhance your life.

Right lower eyelid ectropion (eversion), repair and eyelid reconstruction

Ectropion occurs most commonly due to age-related weakening of certain eyelid muscles and laxity of eyelid tendons. As with any aging process, the physiognomy of each individual, genetic susceptibility and the interplay of environmental factors have a role to play in its manifestation.

In other cases, ectropion can be secondary to trauma, previous surgeries, conditions that cause scarring, tumors or neurologic disorders. In children, this can be a congenital condition that is an isolated finding or together with other systemic abnormalities.

Dr. Sami and all of us at Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery work collaboratively with our patients towards creating a personalized plan that is tailored to fit each patient’s unique needs.

We encourage you to take a few minutes to learn more about other conditions listed in the Eyelid Malpositions section.

Right lower eyelid ectropion (eversion), repair and eyelid reconstruction

You can see more photos of our Ectropian Procedures in our Before & After Gallery

If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sami, please do not hesitate to contact us at 713-668-1264 so we can help enhance your life.

The procedure

Ectropion can be surgically repaired and the surgical technique is dependent on the cause as well as the severity and chronicity of the presentation. The most common surgical procedure involves tightening of the eyelid and its attachments in order to restore the eyelid to its normal position. The surgery can be performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. Patients typically recover quickly and experience excellent resolution of the condition following surgery.

Ectropion repair, just like any eyelid procedure, begins with a thorough knowledge of periorbital structures together with a unique and customized approach to each individual patient. Remember, no two eyes are the same, let alone any two faces.

Dr. Sami carefully customizes her operative plan for each patient, taking into account their unique features such as facial symmetry, shape of the eye, position of fat pads, skin quality, muscle tone, dry eye problems and position of eyeball in relation to the facial bones. Based on her preoperative assessment and the needs and expectations of each patient, she ensures her surgical plan is carried out with compassionate care to yield fantastic results.

At Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, we pride ourselves on our compassionate patient care, our sensitivity and understanding of each patient’s needs and expectations and our drive for excellence. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones feel welcome, comfortable and 100% satisfied with your experience.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sami, please do not hesitate to contact us at 713-668-1264 so we can help enhance your life.