VA Disability Rating for Ectropion (DC 6020)
Diagnostic Code 6020 · 38 CFR §4.79
What Is It?
Ectropion is a condition where the eyelid turns outward, away from the eyeball, exposing the inner eyelid surface and leaving the eye inadequately protected. This causes chronic tearing, irritation, redness, and leaves the cornea vulnerable to drying and damage. In veterans, ectropion commonly results from facial scarring after burns or trauma, nerve damage (especially facial nerve paralysis from TBI), or surgical complications affecting the eyelid area. The VA assigns a flat 20% for bilateral ectropion and 10% for unilateral.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 20% | Bilateral ectropion (affecting both eyes). |
| 10% | Unilateral ectropion (affecting one eye). |
Evidence Needed
An ophthalmology examination documenting the ectropion and its severity is essential. Photographs showing the eyelid position, documentation of the cause (facial scarring, nerve damage, surgery), treatment records including lubricants, taping, or surgical correction, and visual acuity testing if corneal damage has occurred from exposure all strengthen your claim.
C&P Exam Tips
Ensure the examiner documents which eyelids are affected and the degree of eversion. Describe chronic symptoms including tearing, irritation, eye redness, and crusting. Bring records connecting the ectropion to facial trauma or nerve damage. Mention if you need to tape your eyelids or use frequent lubricating drops. Report any corneal problems from inadequate eyelid coverage.
How to File
File under DC 6020 with ophthalmology records and documentation of the service-connected cause. If ectropion has led to corneal damage, file that as a secondary condition. If the ectropion results from facial scarring, the scar itself and the ectropion are separate ratable conditions.
Common Mistakes
Not claiming corneal exposure damage as a separate secondary condition is the most common mistake. Failing to connect the ectropion to facial nerve damage or scarring from service, not documenting the bilateral nature if both eyes are affected, and overlooking that facial disfigurement from the ectropion is separately ratable are other frequent errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ectropion from burn scars be service-connected?
Yes. Cicatricial ectropion from burn or trauma scarring is a direct mechanical consequence of the scar contracture. If the burn or facial injury occurred during service, the ectropion is a secondary condition to the service-connected scar.
Is surgical correction available through the VA?
Yes. The VA provides surgical correction for ectropion when it causes functional problems. Even after surgery, if there are residual symptoms or the condition recurs, it remains ratable based on the ongoing impairment.