After Eye Lift and Brow Lift Eyes Do Not Close All the Way, Is This Permanent?

Question

I had an eye lift on my upper and lower eyelids and a brow lift four weeks ago. I still have some sensitivity to bright lights but my main concern is my eyes still do not close all the way. How long does it take for my eyes to finally close completley? It is making me worried they will never close all the way.

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not uncommon at all for eyelids not to close completely after eyelid surgery, especially when combined with a browlift.  This is called "lagophthalmos," after lagomorphs (rabbits), who sleep with their eyes open.  Your surgeon likely performed a thorough procedure to achieve for you the best possible long term result.  The trade off for this is some temporary disruption of the neuromuscular mechanism of eyelid closure, disruption of complex eyelid glandular secretion, eyelid swelling, and stiffness of the lids.  Most important during this interval is protection of the conjunctiva and cornea from drying.  There are multiple glandular secretions from the eyelids, and their function normally drops off significantly after age 35-40.  Eyedrops and perhaps ointment at night may be necessary.  Sometimes, additional adjunctives are indicated.  Follow up with your surgeon closely, and inform him or her if the eyes are feeling irritated.  You should NOT need consultation with an oculoplastic surgeon unless your plastic surgeon refers you, or unless you are having progressive difficulty that you don't believe your primary surgeon is addressing adequately.  Lagophthalmos typically resolves by two to three months post-operatively.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

The healing process can take up to 6 months so there is still time. However, the answer also depends on exactly why your eyes are not closing and to what extent.  Talk to your surgeon or get consult from an oculoplastic surgeon.

Andre Aboolian, MD · Answer

It is normal for the eyelids not to close for weeks or months after eyelid surgery.  I would give it at least 6 months.

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

One month is generally still early after plastic surgery. Skin and tissue are still swollen and still haven't had time to "settle". Typically, short term difficulty in closing the eyes resolves with time. However, it's very important to keep the eye moist, well lubricated, and protected during this time. Lubricating eye drops or ointment may be required.

	Any issues must be discussed with the plastic surgeon. Only after a comprehensive evaluation can he/she help determine appropriate options for you. Best of luck.

	Dr. Chaboki

Rafael C. Cabrera, MD · Answer

eye protectiion is the most important element to a smooth eyelid/brow recovery. after surgery with swelling and trauma nothing 'works right'.  it is important to keep the cornea well lubricated.  drops and ointment as well as a moisture 'tent' can make the difference. take a piece of plastic wrap and cover your eyes at night.  this will keep the ointment in your eyes and your eyes feeling refreshed in the am. not high tech but very effective.  be patient. good luck. Dr.Cabrera

After Eye Lift and Brow Lift Eyes Do Not Close All the Way, Is This Permanent?

Answers (7)

Answer: Unable to Close Eye after Eyelid Surgery and Brow Lift

Answer: Unable to Close Eye after Eyelid Surgery and Brow Lift

Answer: Incomplete eye closure

Answer: Incomplete eye closure

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After Eye Lift and Brow Lift Eyes Do Not Close All the Way, Is This Permanent?

Answers (7)

Answer: Unable to Close Eye after Eyelid Surgery and Brow Lift

Answer: Unable to Close Eye after Eyelid Surgery and Brow Lift

Answer: Incomplete eye closure

Answer: Incomplete eye closure

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Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.