Restoring eyelid fold can be a difficult problem

Tim Abou-Sayed, MD answers: Stretch eyelid skin possible after an aggressive surgery?

Is it possible to stretch upper eyelid skin or have a skin graft done to eyes that have been operated on aggressively? There was too much skin and fat removed after my Eyelid surgery. I look so odd. I used to have beautiful eyes and a slight hooded upper lid that was very attractive. Now, I barely have a crease with eyelids that feel tight. It does not look right. I already have Juvederm in the upper eyelids, hoping that it will stretch the skin. What else can be done? I'll be most grateful for an answer.


Tim Abou-Sayed, MD
6 months ago

It can be difficult to restore the eyelid fold with an aesthetic result. The tightness you describe is probably from overresection of the skin, which is likely to be correctable with skin grafting, although the aesthetic outcome will be compromised by the extra skin which may not match in color. However, if you are having functional issues (dry eye, excessive tearing), you may want to pursue having the skin graft as function supercedes aesthetics.

Sometimes, subtle issues with the function of the lids are better handled by oculoplastic specialists (ophthalmologists with added training in functional and cosmetic procedures of the eyelids and orbits). Also, many plastic surgeons have expertise in Asian eyelid surgery, which involves manipulation of the eyelid crease in a way that Caucasian eyelid surgery typically does not. An Asian eyelid specialist may be more adept in addressing your concern about the eyelid fold.

Good luck.

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