Artificial tears (a lubricant) may relieve dryness and keep the cornea lubricated. Surgery to tighten the muscles that hold the eyelids in place is usually effective. It may be performed as outpatient surgery with local anesthesia.
The outcome is expected to be good with treatment.
Corneal dryness and irritation may lead to:
Corneal ulcers can threaten vision.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of ectropion.
If you have ectropion, get medical attention if you experience the following emergency symptoms:
Robinson FO, Collin JRO. Ectropion. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, Augsburger JJ, et al, eds. Opthalmology. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2004:chap 88.
Wirbelauer C. Management of the red eye for the primary care physician. Am J Med. 2006;119:302-306.