ECTROPION REPAIR

General Information

DEFINITION--Repair of an ectropion (see Illness section) by removal of excess cartilage in the edge of the eyelid.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Lower eyelid.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Improved appearance.
• Relief of redness, irritation and discomfort.
• Reduced likelihood of infection in the membrane surrounding the eye.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Smoking.
• Stress.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent illness.
• Alcoholism or chronic illness.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Ophthalmologist.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital, ophthalmologist's office or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; eye examination.
• After surgery: Eye examination; laboratory examination of removed tissue.

ANESTHESIA--Local anesthesia by injection.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• An incision is made in the eyelid.
• The cartilage is cut close to the outer eyelid edge. A small wedge of cartilage is cut free and removed. The cartilage is sewn back together.
• Another wedge of cartilage is cut free and removed from the side of the eyelid close to the nose.
• The remaining cartilage is sewn together.
• The skin is closed with sutures, which usually can be removed about 10 days after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Surgical-wound infection.
• Recurrence.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 2 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• Bathe and shower as usual, but keep the eye area dry for 4 to 5 days after surgery.
• Apply warm compresses to the eye to relieve discomfort.
• Sleep for several nights on 2 pillows to decrease swelling.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks after surgery.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.

• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You experience nausea or vomiting.
• Your vision changes.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.