Can crying daily for a month straight cause damage or permanent puffiness to my under eyes?

Question

I recently went through a bad and unexpected break up followed two weeks later by the death of my beloved grandmother. Needless to say there was a lot of crying for a long period of time. I'd say a month daily. I haven't cried in several months but my undereyes are still puffy. Can crying daily for a month straight cause damage or permanent puffiness to my undereyes? If it isn't a fat issue what else can be done for this?

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

I can see how this type of activity can lead to a temporary increase puffiness and sensitivity in your eyelids and orbital area. I'm sorry you have had such a difficult time lately, but I doubt these changes will be permanent. Although, it may take some time before the tissues improve. I wish you the best and hope for a speedy recovery for you.Good luck. Dr. ALDO

Daniel Ezra, MD, FRCS · Answer

Sorry to har that you are going through a difficult time. Tears are actually a very strong irritant to the skin and often cause allergic-type  dermatitis which can lead to puffiness. Its a bad design flaw, and we see it a lot in patients with blocked tear drainage ducts. Vaseline can help to waterproof the skin, and in some patients, steroid creams can also be effective.

Francis (Frank) William Rieger, MD (retired) · Answer

As you have seen most recently, the answer temporarily is yes.  Best to wait until you have had more time pass after your very personal and emotional loss, let the swelling go down to some degree, then ask a local. Plastic Surgeon for a thorough evaluation.Good luck to you!Frank Rieger M.D.  Tampa Plastic Surgeon

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Can crying daily for a month straight cause damage or permanent puffiness to my under eyes?

Answers (3)

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