Ectropion

Ectropion occurs when the eyelid (usually the lower eyelid) is turned out, exposing its inner surface. Ectropion usually is caused by the process of aging and the eyelid's weakened connective tissue. Other causes may be a birth defect, facial palsy, and scar tissue from a burn. Ectropion may be suspected in the presence of such symptoms as dry painful eyes, excess tearing, outward-turned eyelid, chronic conjunctivitis, keratitis, redness of the lid and white part of the eye. Early in ectropion only one portion of the eyelid is turned out, but if the condition is severe, the eyelid is turned out for its entire length. The diagnosis is reached through examination of the eye and its eyelid with focused light. No special tests usually are necessary. Lubrication with artificial tears may relieve dryness. An outpatient surgical procedure operation is available to tighten the muscles that hold the eyelid in place. Left untreated, the corneal dryness and irritation caused by ectropion may lead to eye abrasions, ulcers, and infections. Corneal ulcers can threaten the eyesight.

Why UAB

UAB Ophthalmology has more than 25 physicians, many of them named among the top doctors in their fields nationally. They are renowned for their advances in eye care, breaking through old ways of treating blinding eye diseases and revolutionizing many areas of ophthalmology.

Ophthalmology care at UAB is located in UAB Callahan Eye Hospital, one of the busiest eye hospitals in the country, where specialists work together to treat complex cases. The UAB Callahan Eye Hospital surgical suite houses nine operating rooms dedicated to eye surgery as well as a 24/7 Eye emergency room, which is the region’s only Level I Ocular Trauma Center. More than 11,000 surgeries are performed at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital each year, and we conduct more reconstructive eye surgeries than any other facility in the world. Patients come from around the nation to be treated for eye conditions at UAB.

The UAB Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation works with patients to maximize vision and provides services such as orientation and mobility, occupational therapy, and support groups for patients dealing with vision loss or impairment.

Through ongoing research and clinical trials, UAB continues to make great strides in the field of ophthalmology. In addition to our physicians, we have a team of vision scientists who are fully dedicated to researching causes, preventions, and cures for eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Many UAB ophthalmologists have received funding from prestigious research organizations and institutions and collaborate in clinical care to deliver the latest in scientific discovery to our patients.

Images and Videos

Priscilla Fowler, MD Assistant Professor and Director of the Cornea Service in the Department of Ophthalmology at UAB, discusses how easily "red eye" can be misdiagnosed.

See how UAB’s Bioptic Driving Program is paving the road for those who are severely nearsighted to get behind the wheel safely. 

UAB pilot program brings glaucoma screenings closer to home.

UAB Callahan Eye Hospital helped save a young baseball player’s career and, most importantly, his sight.

After being hit in the eye with a bottle rocket, Dianne Peterson underwent sight-saving surgery at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital. 

Related Treatments

Depending on your case and your physician’s assessment, your condition may be treated using one or more various procedures. Some of those procedures are listed below for your convenience. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list and may vary depending on your specific diagnosis.

Clinical Trials

UAB is an active participant in research and clinical trials for the diagnosis and treatment of ectropion. We encourage you to speak to your physician about research and clinical trial options and browse the link below for more information.

View Clinical Trials