As we age, our bodies go through various changes, including changes in our skin and muscles. One such change that can occur is the turning out of the eyelids, a condition known as ectropion. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, trauma or even certain medical conditions. Dr. Benjamin C. Stong at Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery, LLC, reviews how aging can cause ectropion and what can be done to correct it.
What is Ectropion?
Ectropion is a medical condition in which the lower eyelid turns outward, exposing the pink inner eyelid. When this happens, the eye can become dry, irritated and even tear excessively. If left untreated, it can also lead to infections, corneal ulcers and even vision loss. Ectropion can affect one or both eyes and can occur in people of all ages, although it is more commonly seen in older adults.
How Does Aging Cause Ectropion?
As we age, our skin loses elasticity, and our muscles weaken. This can lead to the lower eyelid becoming loose and saggy, which can cause it to turn outward. In addition, the muscles and tendons that control the eyelid movement can become slack and lose their tone, which can further contribute to the eyelid turning out. Furthermore, the loss of fat in the lower eyelid can also contribute to the turning out of the eyelid.
What Can Be Done to Correct Ectropion?
There are various treatment options available for correcting ectropion, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. In mild cases, using lubricating eye drops and ointments can help alleviate dryness and irritation. In more severe cases, surgery may be required.
Ectropion repair is a surgical procedure that aims to correct this condition by tightening the eyelid and restoring its normal position. The surgery involves making incisions in the eyelid and removing excess tissue, as well as repositioning the muscles and tendons that control the eyelid movement. Dr. Stong can typically do it an outpatient basis under local anesthesia with a high success rate.
In some cases, a temporary eyelid weight may be placed on the lower eyelid to help it close properly. This is often used as a temporary measure while waiting for surgery or to see if the condition resolves on its own.
Atlanta Eyelid Reconstruction Surgery
Ectropion is a medical condition that can be caused by various factors, including aging. If left untreated, it can lead to dryness, irritation, and tearing of the eye, as well as more severe complications. If you are experiencing symptoms of ectropion, it is important to seek medical attention from Dr. Stong. They can evaluate your condition and recommend the best course of treatment, which may include ectropion surgery or other therapies. With proper treatment, ectropion can be corrected, and your eye health can be restored.
Contact Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery, LLC, today if you are having eyelid problems that cause vision or quality of life issues.
