I had Blepharoplasty done 5 weeks ago, and I immediately noticed post-surgery that the incisions were not the same. However, I didn't worry. Now, one eye looks wonderful and awake, but the other still has overlapping skin and looks tired. What could have happened? Is this result common with the procedure? I'm not sure if I should call my doctor prior to our next appointment (at the 10th week), or just wait and let it heal.
Swelling unfortunately is a common occurrence after cosmetic surgery. It takes several months for the final result to be realized after most cosmetic procedures although with the exception of rhinoplasty most of the swelling goes away in the first 1-2 months. I would contact your surgeon if you are concerned. If you have persistent asymmetry, I am assuming you had an upper lid blepharoplasty, that is mild it should be relatively easy to correct.
During the healing process, it is critical that you stay in close contact with your surgeon. He will be able to assess your concerns and let you know how he feels you are progressing. A few thoughts to consider, and some of these have already been mentioned.
We are all somewhat asymmetrical, and this means that not only can your incisions be different, but one side can heal differently that the other and at a different rate that the other, so patience is very important. The brow may or may not be an issue of concern, and I often see patients who have had eyelid surgery in the past, but really require a browlift.
Ask your surgeon if he thinks you may require this at some point, but not right now. Most likely, the two sides will approach a symmetrical result over time.
Sometimes asymmetrical eyelid surgery will result in a more symmetrical result; when eyelid skin and fat is asymmetrical, surgery can be done to improve symmetry. It is always easier to go back and take more skin and fat out than to try to put it back in.
An additional single eyelid blepharoplasty procedure can be performed as a touch-up procedure to further balance the asymmetry that is currently present to improve the look of the eyelids. This should be done approximately three months after the procedure to make sure all swelling has subsided.
Contact the doctor
