Muscle tightening in right eye? (photo)

Question

Although I know faces are rarely symmetrical, Moles (now removed), one ear tucked behind more than the other etc. I have one major issue...drooping of the lower, inner part of the eyelid (my right) As an actor I've learned to slightly squint my right eye on camera so it's less noticeable, but wondered this could be fixed, I've looked into treatments for 'droopy' eyes but it all seems aimed at the elderly which is a totally different problem. What could be done?

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Here is your challenge getting help for your concern:  You need to make sure that you and your potential surgeon see and address the concern that bothers you the same way.  The risk here is that your potential surgeon does not really understand your concern and suddenly you have a result that is not right.  This type of situation is very common in people with body dysmorphic disorder.  Your sensitivity to your appearance exceeds the surgeons ability to understand the concern.  That is a potential miscommunication that lead to bad outcome.  Just make 100% certain that the surgeon understands your concern.

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

Your eyelids look in the range of normal slight asymmetry. At least in my hands any surgery to try to make them more symmetrical will  probably make them less so.

Scott Shadfar, MD · Answer

Hello DjKal, Thanks for the question.I agree with the doctors below in that this is a very slight asymmetry and I would exercise caution before allowing anyone to do any type of surgical correction.Without examining you, physically feeling the tissue, assessing your desired outcome, taking a full medical history, and discussing the pros and cons of any further treatments it is difficult to be comprehensive.One option would be to place a small amount of temporary filler into the lower eyelid to support the "droopy" area on the right medial aspect. I would consult with a facial plastic surgeon in your area who feels comfortable injecting this area as there are risks associated with this. I hope this helps.Dr. S

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

There is an important difference between eyelid asymmetry that has developed for one reason or another and eyelid asymmetry that has always been present.  There is botox, fillers, and surgery available for a variety of eyelid asymmetry issues but I do not think any of them are worth pursuing for you.  I think your eyelid position is aesthetically good.  Whatever you decide I would take great caution to make sure that things are not made worse.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Muscle tightening in right eye? (photo)

Answers (4)