Ectropion (Outward Eyelid Turning)

DC 6020Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.79, DC 6020

A condition where the eyelid turns outward, exposing the inner surface and leaving the eye unprotected. This causes tearing, irritation, and increased risk of corneal damage. The VA rates ectropion based on whether it affects one or both eyes.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 6020

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.79, DC 6020. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have ectropion in both eyes, causing bilateral tearing, irritation, and corneal exposure. Both eyelids turn outward and you need ongoing treatment to protect both corneas.

What the VA looks for

Bilateral ectropion documented on examination
Bilateral epiphora (excessive tearing)
Bilateral conjunctival irritation and exposure
Corneal exposure keratopathy in one or both eyes
Ongoing bilateral treatment with lubricants

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not connecting ectropion to its service-connected cause — ectropion can result from facial scarring (burns, trauma), facial nerve paralysis (Bell palsy), or prior eyelid surgery, all of which may be service-related.
⚠Not documenting corneal complications — corneal exposure from ectropion can cause keratopathy, corneal ulcers, and scarring that may warrant additional rating based on visual impairment.
⚠Not filing for disfigurement — if ectropion causes visible facial disfigurement, it may also be rated under the skin disfigurement codes (DC 7800) in addition to the eye condition rating.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Eye Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 6020

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have ectropion in both eyes, causing bilateral tearing, irritation, and corneal exposure. Both eyelids turn outward and you need ongoing treatment to protect both corneas.

What the VA looks for

Bilateral ectropion documented on examination
Bilateral epiphora (excessive tearing)
Bilateral conjunctival irritation and exposure
Corneal exposure keratopathy in one or both eyes
Ongoing bilateral treatment with lubricants

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not connecting ectropion to its service-connected cause — ectropion can result from facial scarring (burns, trauma), facial nerve paralysis (Bell palsy), or prior eyelid surgery, all of which may be service-related.

⚠Not documenting corneal complications — corneal exposure from ectropion can cause keratopathy, corneal ulcers, and scarring that may warrant additional rating based on visual impairment.

⚠Not filing for disfigurement — if ectropion causes visible facial disfigurement, it may also be rated under the skin disfigurement codes (DC 7800) in addition to the eye condition rating.