Can Ectropion Cause Dry Eye or Excessive Tearing?

A constantly watery eye may seem like the opposite of dry eye. However, both symptoms can come from the same eyelid problem. Ectropion causes the lower lid to turn outward, which can disrupt the protective moisture layer and normal tear drainage.

Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, Inc. serves patients with various eye conditions, including ectropion, in the St. Louis area. Here, you’ll receive expert care from fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic surgeons. 

How Does Ectropion Affect the Eye?

A healthy lower eyelid rests against the surface of the eye. This position helps spread tears with each blink and directs them toward a small drainage opening near the inner corner of the eyelid.

With ectropion, the eyelid sags or rotates away from the eye. This change might prevent the eyelids from closing fully or distributing moisture evenly. The exposed surface can then become dry, red, and irritated.

This condition most often affects the lower lid and may develop because of:

• Age-related stretching and weakness
• Facial nerve weakness or paralysis
• Scarring after an injury, surgery, or skin condition
• A growth or other weight pulling on the eyelid
• Congenital differences

Why Can Ectropion Cause Excessive Tearing?

When the lower eyelid turns outward, the tear drainage opening may no longer sit against the eye. Instead of flowing into the drainage system, tears sometimes spill over the eyelid and run down the cheek.

Dryness can also trigger reflex tearing. The eye senses irritation and produces more moisture in response, but those tears might not stay on the eye long enough to provide lasting comfort. This can create a frustrating cycle of dryness followed by watering.

Other Common Symptoms

Symptoms may affect one or both eyes and can include:

• Burning, grittiness, or a foreign-body sensation
• Redness of the eye or inner lid
• Crusting or mucus buildup
• Sensitivity to light
• Intermittent blurred vision that improves after blinking
• Difficulty closing the eye completely

Severe or untreated exposure can potentially damage the cornea, so increasing pain, light sensitivity, or vision changes should receive prompt medical attention.

How Is Ectropion Treated?

Lubricating drops, gels, or ointments can temporarily protect the eye and reduce discomfort. Treatment might also address an underlying problem, such as inflammation, facial nerve weakness, scarring, or a growth that is pulling the eyelid outward.

When ectropion results from a structural change, surgery may be recommended to restore its position. The procedure selected depends on the cause, severity, and tissues involved.

Find Relief From Watery, Irritated Eyes

Dryness and excessive tearing do not always begin inside the eye. An outward-turning eyelid may be preventing tears from protecting and draining properly. Call Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, Inc. at 314-567-3567 to arrange an appointment at one of our St. Louis-area locations.