Ectropion

A turning outwards of the eyelid so that the inner surface is exposed. Ectropion is most common in elderly people, in whom it usually affects the lower lid and is due to weakness of the muscle surrounding the eye. The condition may also be caused by the contraction of scar tissue in the skin near either lid. Ectropion often follows facial palsy, which causes paralysis of the muscles around the eye. Even slight ectropion interferes with the normal drainage of tears, which may lead to conjunctivitis. Surgery to tighten the lid may be needed.