Table of contents

• Symptoms of Ectropion
• Causes of Ectropion
• Why Treatment Is Important
• Understanding Terminology
• Surgical Treatments for Ectropion
• Best Clinics in Korea for Ectropion
• Considering Surgery in South Korea
• Benefits of Ectropion Surgery
• Summary Table of Ectropion Types and Causes
• Conclusion
• References

Ectropion is a condition where the eyelid, usually the lower one, turns outward away from the eye’s surface. While this might seem like a small change, it can seriously affect eye health and comfort. Normally, eyelids protect the eye and spread tears evenly to keep it moist and free from irritants. When the eyelid flips outward, this protective function is lost, exposing the delicate inner lining and making the eye vulnerable.

When the eyelid doesn’t close properly due to ectropion, tears don’t spread across the cornea as they should. This can cause a confusing mix of symptoms: the eye feels dry because tears aren’t distributed well, but it also produces excess tears in response. Since the eyelid is out of place, tears can’t drain through the tiny openings called puncta, causing them to pool and overflow onto the cheek.

Symptoms of Ectropion

People with ectropion often notice watery eyes because tears don’t drain properly. Despite the tearing, the eyes can feel dry, gritty, or sandy. The exposed inner eyelid and dryness cause irritation, leading to burning sensations and redness in both the eyelid and the white part of the eye. Some also experience light sensitivity (photophobia) due to corneal irritation. A common complaint is the feeling of a foreign body in the eye, even when nothing is there. In some cases, mucous discharge and crusting of eyelashes occur. The eyes may feel sore, red, and irritated. Less commonly, blurred vision or pain can happen. In severe cases, especially paralytic ectropion, patients may be unable to close their eyelids fully, a condition called lagophthalmos.

Causes of Ectropion

Ectropion can develop for several reasons:

• Involutional ectropion is the most common and happens with aging. As muscles and tendons supporting the eyelids weaken and stretch, the eyelid becomes loose and sags outward. Even frequent eye rubbing can worsen this laxity.

• Paralytic ectropion results from facial paralysis caused by conditions like Bell’s palsy, stroke, or tumors affecting the facial nerve. The orbicularis oculi muscle, which closes the eyelid, weakens, causing the eyelid to droop and increasing corneal exposure.

• Cicatricial ectropion occurs due to scarring from trauma, burns, skin conditions, or previous eyelid surgeries such as blepharoplasty or laser treatments. Scar tissue contracts and pulls the eyelid outward.

• Mechanical ectropion is caused by growths like tumors, cysts, or swelling (edema) that physically push or pull the eyelid outward.

• Congenital ectropion is present at birth and often linked to genetic disorders like Down syndrome or blepharophimosis syndrome, where eyelid muscles don’t develop properly.

Other less common causes include allergic reactions and certain anti-cancer drugs such as erlotinib, cetuximab, and panitumumab.

Why Treatment Is Important

If ectropion is left untreated, it can lead to serious eye problems. Chronic dryness and irritation increase the risk of corneal abrasions (scratches), ulcers (open sores), infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye), and keratitis (corneal inflammation). In severe cases, untreated ectropion can cause vision loss or blindness. It may also cause punctal stenosis or phimosis, which narrow or close the tear drainage openings.

Understanding Terminology

While "ectropion" is the medical term, patients might see it described as "out-turned eyelid," "sagging eyelid," or "drooping eyelid." Doctors may specify the type—such as involutional, paralytic, cicatricial, mechanical, or congenital—based on the cause. It’s important to note that eyelid ectropion is different from "cervical ectropion," a gynecological condition affecting the cervix and unrelated to the eyelid.

Surgical Treatments for Ectropion

For many, especially when symptoms persist or complications arise, surgery is the best way to fix ectropion and relieve discomfort. The surgical approach depends on the type and cause of ectropion, and any inflammation or infection should be managed before surgery to improve outcomes.

Canthoplasty

Canthoplasty tightens and repositions the outer corner of the eyelid (lateral canthus). By reinforcing the canthal tendon, the surgeon lifts and supports the lower eyelid, correcting the outward turn. This procedure is common for involutional ectropion caused by eyelid laxity. It improves tear drainage, reduces dryness and irritation, and can enhance the eye’s appearance by reducing droopiness.

Eyelid Retraction Repair

This surgery addresses ectropion caused by eyelid pulling or scarring, often from previous surgeries or trauma. The surgeon releases the retractors—muscles pulling the eyelid down—and may use grafts made from skin or mucous membrane to lengthen the eyelid’s outer layer. This is especially important for cicatricial ectropion, where scar tissue needs to be released and replaced to restore normal eyelid position.

Laser Canthoplasty

Laser canthoplasty uses lasers to make precise cuts, remove excess tissue, and tighten skin around the eyelid’s outer corner. While details are limited, laser techniques may reduce bleeding and speed healing compared to traditional surgery. Laser use is often part of canthoplasty rather than a separate procedure.

Blepharoplasty

Though mainly a cosmetic surgery to remove excess eyelid skin and fat, blepharoplasty can help some involutional ectropion cases by removing extra tissue that contributes to eyelid sagging. However, removing too much skin can cause cicatricial ectropion, so this procedure must be carefully planned and is not a primary treatment for all ectropion types.

Eyelid Fat Grafting

This involves transferring fat from another body area to the eyelid to restore volume and support. Fat grafting can improve eyelid position in involutional ectropion caused by fat loss and help cicatricial ectropion by adding bulk to scarred areas, enhancing both function and appearance.

Best Clinics in Korea for Ectropion

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for ectropion:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	World-renowned board-certified surgeons; state-of-the-art facilities; multidisciplinary team; comprehensive care across four floors; active academic engagement; personalized communication and safety protocols	Advanced integration of functional and aesthetic ectropion correction; innovative 3D facial implant research; holistic approach combining cosmetic refinement with functional preservation
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Over 15 years of exclusive eye surgery expertise; customized eyelid surgery; direct consultations; board-certified anesthesiologist safety system; 1:1 monitoring; cross-checks; CCTV transparency; comprehensive aftercare; nationally awarded	Precision tailoring of incision, eyelid height, and thickness for facial harmony; proven protocols for fast, natural recovery
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic	Patient-centered holistic care; individualized treatment plans; led by renowned female specialist; advanced technology; committed post-op support; natural results; success in complex and revision cases	Cutting-edge and personalized ectropion correction; advanced reconstructive and aesthetic eyelid surgery for complex cases

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Gangnam, Seoul stands out as the premier clinic for the treatment of ectropion in Korea, thanks to its world-renowned team of board-certified plastic surgeons, state-of-the-art facilities, and unwavering commitment to both functional and aesthetic excellence. The clinic’s expert surgeons, including Dr. Kim—an internationally recognized leader in rhinoplasty and facial contouring with acclaimed research in 3D implants—and Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons and a global authority on combining cosmetic refinement with functional preservation, bring a depth of experience and innovative thinking to every case. The multidisciplinary team at THEPLUS is further enhanced by Dr. Lee, whose extensive background in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery at leading hospitals ensures a holistic approach to patient care. Operating across four meticulously designed floors, THEPLUS offers a comprehensive continuum of care, from thorough diagnosis to post-operative management, grounded in personalized patient communication and safety protocols. Their surgeons’ active engagement in national and international plastic surgery societies, scholarly research, and ongoing professional education highlights a dedication to the highest standards, making THEPLUS the optimal choice for individuals seeking the most advanced and natural-looking outcomes in ectropion correction.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery is widely regarded as the leading clinic for ectropion treatment in Korea, setting itself apart through a combination of elite expertise, advanced safety protocols, and an unmatched patient-centered philosophy. Under the guidance of Dr. Park Byung-Chan, who boasts over 15 years of exclusive focus on eye surgeries, patients benefit from his meticulous attention to natural, beautiful outcomes—often visible as soon as the day of surgery. The clinic is profoundly dedicated to customizing every aspect of eyelid surgery, from incision lines and double eyelid height to eyelid thickness and overall facial harmony, which ensures that each patient achieves results uniquely tailored to their individual needs and aesthetic goals. Made Young's entire medical team shares this unwavering commitment to excellence, with only highly qualified surgeons performing treatments and direct consultations leading every patient journey. Enhanced by a comprehensive safety system that includes full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, 1:1 patient monitoring, cross-check protocols, and full procedural transparency through CCTV, patient wellbeing is prioritized at every stage. A dedicated aftercare center delivers systematic, attentive post-procedure support, ensuring optimal recovery and satisfaction. Recognized by numerous national awards, including the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, and backed by official certifications from leading medical societies, Made Young Plastic Surgery clinic is truly the gold standard for those seeking expert, safe, and aesthetically harmonious ectropion correction in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands at the forefront of aesthetic and reconstructive care in Korea, renowned for its comprehensive, patient-centered approach to plastic surgery. Dedicated to delivering transformative results, the clinic provides individualized treatment plans crafted by a highly skilled team, including a leading female plastic surgeon recognized for her expertise and compassionate care. At Okay Plastic Surgery, patients are guided through a holistic journey that prioritizes both surgical excellence and genuine empathy. Leveraging advanced techniques and meticulous attention to detail, the clinic ensures that every patient’s unique goals and needs are addressed with precision and sincerity.

Why Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is the best choice for Ectropion treatment:

• Extensive expertise in specialized eye plastic surgery, including complex cases such as ectropion correction.
• A multidisciplinary team led by a distinguished female plastic surgeon with years of experience in aesthetic and reconstructive eye procedures.
• Commitment to personalized care, ensuring every ectropion surgery plan is tailored to the patient’s facial anatomy and medical history.
• Utilization of cutting-edge techniques and technologies to ensure safe, precise, and long-lasting results for eyelid correction.
• Comprehensive follow-up care and a supportive environment that prioritizes patient comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout the healing process.
• Recognition for delivering natural-looking outcomes that restore both the function and appearance of the eyes.
• Strong track record in successful revision surgeries and complex eye conditions, reflecting the clinic’s dedication to achieving optimal results even in challenging cases.

You can check out their website here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Considering Surgery in South Korea

South Korea is a popular destination for ectropion surgery due to its advanced medical technology and skilled surgeons, especially in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The process usually starts with online consultations where patients share medical history and photos. After deciding to proceed, patients arrange travel and accommodation, often with clinic assistance.

Upon arrival, an in-person consultation finalizes the treatment plan. Surgery is performed in hospitals or specialized clinics, with anesthesia type depending on the procedure and patient needs. Surgeries often take less than an hour per eyelid. Post-operative care instructions and follow-up appointments are provided, and patients typically stay in South Korea for several days to a week for recovery and check-ups.

South Korea offers competitive costs, state-of-the-art equipment, and comprehensive care packages that may include surgery, accommodation, transportation, and post-op care. Patients should research clinics and surgeons thoroughly to ensure quality care.

Benefits of Ectropion Surgery

Though direct patient testimonials are not included here, successful ectropion surgery generally restores eyelid position, allowing tears to spread and drain properly. This relieves dryness, grittiness, burning, and the sensation of a foreign body. Surgery protects the cornea from damage, preserving and sometimes improving vision.

Correcting the eyelid also reduces excessive tearing by restoring natural drainage. Timely surgery prevents serious complications like corneal ulcers and infections. Many patients notice cosmetic improvements, with eyes looking more refreshed, which can boost confidence and quality of life.

Summary Table of Ectropion Types and Causes

Type of Ectropion	Common Causes
Involutional	Aging (weakening of muscles and tendons)
Paralytic	Facial nerve paralysis (e.g., Bell's palsy, stroke, tumors)
Cicatricial	Scars from trauma, burns, skin conditions, previous eyelid surgeries (e.g., blepharoplasty, laser treatments)
Mechanical	Tumors, cysts, swelling (edema) on the eyelid
Congenital	Present at birth, often associated with genetic disorders (e.g., Down syndrome, blepharophimosis syndrome)
Other	Allergic reactions, certain anti-cancer treatments (e.g., erlotinib, cetuximab, panitumumab)

Conclusion

Ectropion is a common eyelid condition, especially with aging, that can cause discomfort and serious eye problems if untreated. Understanding its causes and symptoms helps patients seek appropriate care. While artificial tears may offer temporary relief, surgery is often the most effective way to restore eyelid function and prevent complications. Various surgical options, including canthoplasty, [eyelid retraction repair](/blog/eyelid-retraction-repair-korea), blepharoplasty, and fat grafting, are tailored to the specific type of ectropion. South Korea is recognized for advanced surgical expertise and comprehensive care for patients considering treatment abroad. Ultimately, treating ectropion aims to improve eye comfort, protect vision, and enhance quality of life.

References

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