Ectropion Repair in Chicago

stock image of male model with formal shirt

What Is Ectropion?

Ectropion is a condition in which your lower eyelid droops away from the eye. It tends to be more common among older adults, but it can also occur in younger individuals.

Over time, ectropion can cause increased tear production and mucous drainage. These changes, in turn, can lead to eye infections. While it may seem like a cosmetic concern, this condition can have physical effects that put the health of your eyes and eyelids at risk.

What Are the Symptoms?

Common ectropion symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Tearing
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Irritation of the cornea (the clear surface of your eyes)

Symptoms may originally be mild. But they can progress over time, worsening in severity.

stock image of model

I like not only to be loved, but also to be told I am loved.

George Eliot

Benefits of Ectropion Treatment

With ectropion treatment, patients may find a range of benefits, from an improved appearance to reduced symptoms. Benefits you can expect to see from ectropion repair include:
  • Reduction of symptoms such as redness, tearing, and irritation
  • A healthier eye and eyelid
  • Improved cosmetic appearance
  • Restored confidence in how you look

Schedule a Consultation

Ectropion Repair Before & Afters

Procedure before and after patient1

Ectropion Repair: Treatment Overview

At Chicago Oculofacial Consultants, ectropion repair may involve tightening or repositioning of the affected eyelid. This brief eyelid surgery can be performed through a straightforward procedure that typically takes less than 1 hour. Depending on your individual condition, you may need a combination of ectropion repairs and other treatments to achieve the desired outcome and see full symptom relief. Dr. Williams will consult with you thoroughly to build the best plan forward.

stock image of model smiling

Ectropion Surgery: At a Glance

  • Ectropion repair is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can typically go home the same day.
  • Patients usually only need local anesthesia with mild sedation.
  • There is minimal downtime associated with ectropion repair. You may be able to resume regular activities within about 1–2 weeks after your procedure.
  • Results tend to last for years to permanently.

After the Surgery: Recovery

After ectropion surgery, patients may experience some bruising and swelling in the area. This typically dissipates within a few days, and it is simply part of the healing process. Patients can usually resume regular activities quite soon after ectropion repair. But the time frame varies and will depend on Dr. Williams’s approval. During recovery, it is essential to follow all post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Williams to ensure a speedy and successful healing period with optimal results.

After the Surgery: Results

Once their ectropion repair is complete, patients can almost immediately notice a reduction in ectropion-related symptoms and an improved aesthetic of the area. Results will be visible immediately, but it may take several weeks or even months for the full results to become apparent.

With ectropion repair, you can enjoy a healthier eye and eyelid as well as an improved cosmetic appearance. Our goal is to provide results that lead every one of our patients toward looking and feeling at their absolute best.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Ectropion Repair FAQs

If ectropion is interfering with your daily life and making it difficult to feel comfortable in public, ectropion repair is worth considering. If you are experiencing ectropion-related symptoms such as redness, tearing, or eye irritation, ectropion treatment can help provide symptom relief. First, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Williams to determine if this procedure is right for you. You will have the opportunity for an in-depth discussion to learn about the surgery and its benefits, as well as to determine if it meets your needs.

Ectropion surgery should provide long-termbenefits, including eyelid comfort and a restored appearance. Most patients should see mostly permanent benefits. However, each person’s situation is dependent on individual factors. For example, age-relate changes can cause structural issues in the eyelid. In certain patients, these changes may lead to eyelid issues. Additionally, injuries can damage the eyelid and cause problems. Good eyelid care and a healthy lifestyle can help you get the most out of your results.

Any incisions will heal as scars, regardless of surgery. However, Dr. Williams places incisions in hidden areas. So, your results should shine through, not any scars. Furthermore, scars tend to improve over time. We can show you real patient results so you know what to expect after healing.

Insurance can cover your surgery in some cases. If your eyelid is causing physical symptoms, then the procedure is functional rather than purely cosmetic. Still, coverage varies. We recommend contacting your insurance to understand what your plan covers.

You likely have a different condition called entropion. Dr. Williams also provides reconstructive surgery for this condition. A quick surgical procedure should sufficiently resolve the issue.