Bulge Directly Under Eyelids After Lower Bleph. Residual Swelling?

Question

I had a lower bleph 2 1/2 weeks ago. As acute swelling died down, I noticed I now have direct bulges under my eyelid incisions. I know I am early in the recovery but is it possible to tell if this is swelling that will disappear in time or a part of my anatomy? Left bulge is more prominent & soft to the touch,leads to believe its swelling. Would swelling stay this high in the eyes? Its irritating that I had this to remove one problem and am now left with these bulges. Something to worry about?

A.J. Amadi, MD · Answer

The "roll" just underneath the incision site is swelling within the orbicularis muscle [which is responsible for eyelid closure] which will resolve over time. The swelling further down on the eyelid, as it transitions to the cheek, dubbed festoons, develops as the fluid/bruising settles due to gravity,.  Often this swelling is the last to resolve, sometimes taking weeks. In younger patients such as yourself the resolution is usually quicker.

	You are early in your recover, so no need for be too anxious.

	Best of luck

Ritu Chopra, MD · Answer

Certainly, swelling associated with bruising is still acute.  It changes daily and really changes in the hours between when you go to bed and wake up.  Start every day with cold compresses.  Watch the salt intake.  Make time for cool or lukewarm compresses during the day.  That will boost your recover speed.

David J. Levens, MD · Answer

It can take several weeks to even a month or two to see all the intial swelling from eyelid surgery resolve completely.  As long as your eyelid function is good, that you are able to open and close your eyelids,  protect your eyes from drying, and that you are having no visual difficulties, be patient.  Discuss your concerns with your surgeon and you will see continued improvement with time.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Dear Rookshire

	The two side almost never heal at precisely the same pace.  One side certainly looks more bruised.  This will be associated with more bruising and swelling, which is what you have.  A bad bruise can easily last 3 to 4 weeks.  I do recommend letting your surgeon know about the bruise if they are not already aware.  Occasionally, the bruising can organize into more scaring and this can affect symmetry.  You most definitely want your surgeon to follow you for this.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

It is totally normal to have residual swelling and even bruising 2 weeks after a lower lid Blepharoplasty; there is nothing abnormal with your photos.  The questions you raise and the reassurance you need are best addressed by the operating Surgeon.

Bulge Directly Under Eyelids After Lower Bleph. Residual Swelling?

Answers (10)

Answer: It is entirely normal to have swelling and even bruising at this point.

Answer: It is entirely normal to have swelling and even bruising at this point.

Answer: Postoperative Swelling After Belpharoplasty

Answer: Postoperative Swelling After Belpharoplasty

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Bulge Directly Under Eyelids After Lower Bleph. Residual Swelling?

Answers (10)

Answer: It is entirely normal to have swelling and even bruising at this point.

Answer: It is entirely normal to have swelling and even bruising at this point.

Answer: Postoperative Swelling After Belpharoplasty

Answer: Postoperative Swelling After Belpharoplasty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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