Yellow eyes after lower blepharoplasty? (photo)

Question

I had subciliary lower blepharoplasty 8 days ago. My left eye is very yellow and it looks like there's a bulge. It's slightly uncomfortable, but not painful. Is this serious?

Ritchie Younger, MD · Answer

Assuming your surgery was performed by a facial plastic or oculoplastic surgeon with vast experience dealing with lower eyelid surgery-you have very little to worry about.  Swelling and bruising are common following blepharoplasty surgery, and the appearance of not only your bruised swollen  eye, but the surrounding swollen and discoloured tissue- are both  frequent sequelae of this approach to lower eyelid surgery that will resolve easily with a little bit of cool compresses and TLC by your surgeon.  Good luck with your new eyes !!

Christopher C. Chang, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the photos.  At this point one week postoperatively, it is very normal to have some residual bruising which you can see on the outside of your skin. As the bruise and red blood cells breakdown and your body reabsorbs them, they can leave a yellowish color which is only temporary. It also looks like there is some swelling inside that still needs some time to improve. At this point after your procedure, it is normal to have some residual swelling. The eyelids are sensitive and the tissues are thin and delicate so they tend to swell easily.  
I wouldn't be concerned 8 days out but would keep close contact with your surgeon for routine post op follow up.

Best wishes.

Chase Lay, MD · Answer

Morning, this is a mild form of chemosis or simply lingering swelling of the lower eyelid tissues AND the sclera lining of the eye itself.  It's not desirable but it certainly occurs and should resolve.  Go talk to your doctor about a treatment routine such as physical activity, compresses, and possibly some oral steroids if needed.  Shouldn't be too serious BUT AS YOUR SURGEON about this one.Chase Lay, MD

Leon Goldstein, MD · Answer

You appear to have had some subconjunctival bleed and resultant hemoglobin breakdown. Scleral swelling is not that uncommon too. Steroidal drops will help but most important is that you see your surgeon who can give more precise care after examination.

Damon B. Chandler, MD · Answer

As the other experts here have already stated, you must discuss your concerns with your surgeon -- as I was not there in the OR with you, I cannot give a precise answer! That being said, it appears from your photograph that you may have mild swelling of the mucous membrane covering your eyeball which is common after lower eyelid cosmetic surgery.  The yellow discoloration likely represents the normal "bruising" which occurs to this same area.  These conditions are likely to resolve over the next several weeks to months and lubrication or other medications are sometimes helpful in the healing process. Once again, discuss at length with your surgeon -- he/she is your expert to assist you. Best of luck in your healing.

Chris Thiagarajah, MD · Answer

This is likely normal but you should be asking the surgeon who did the surgery. The surgeon who performed the surgery knows better than me, another eyelid specialist or anyone else if it is normal or not. Doctors looking at photos is not the same as in person

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It looks like you have some chemises and could benefit from lubrications and possibly steroid drops. Speak with your surgeon.

Yellow eyes after lower blepharoplasty? (photo)

Answers (7)

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