Why are my incisions still very dark after upper and lower blepharoplasty two weeks post-op?

Question

I had upper and lower blepharoplasty two weeks ago. My incisions look dark almost black. Is this normal? What type of discoloration is caused by sunlight. I was in the sun but with sunglasses. I have sparse eyelashes which also makes the lower incisions more prominent. I am concerned makeup will make them even darker. I don't see from others pictures this problem.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

You are extremely early from surgery.  You require more time to heal.  However to truly understand what is going on, there is not true substitute for a consultation.  That said, a photograph is helpful.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

We need to see some pictures.  You may have some dark scabs still present which will make the incision look dark.  There can be some hyperpigmentation which can occur in darker skinned people, but it would be unusual for that to occur this early in the healing.  Try cleaning the wound first to see if there is any scab still there.

Erik Miles, MD, FACS · Answer

Darkening or redness of the surgical incision is normal two weeks after surgery.  You are very early in the healing process. The extent of this will vary from patient to patient. There are studies that show it typically takes seven months to a year for a surgical scar to fade.  You should however notice a significant improvement to your appearance over the weeks. You are correct to avoid direct UV light on your incisions as they heal.  I would avoid using makeup on your incisions until your surgeon gives you the clearance to do so.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

The darkness that appears in incisions after surgery is usually from post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, although it is disconcerting.  It does get better with time it can take 6 weeks to 6 months to get better.  It is imperative to protect the area from sun.  If it does not get better then you have the option of undergoing either chemical peel or laser treatments to reduce the darkness, but that can be done only after the healing is complete roughly around 3-6 months.RegardsDr. J

Mark Been, MD · Answer

At two weeks post-op it is perfectly normal for your incisions to be discolored. The color of your incisions at this time is partly dictated by your normal skin tone--those with darker skin types tend to have darker, or hyperpigmented, responses to inflammation and wound healing. I normally tell my patients that this discoloration can persist for one to two months following surgery. Be sure to follow up regularly with your surgeon so he or she can monitor your healing. Also, be sure to wear sunscreen with SPF at least 30 (guidelines per American Academy of Dermatology). Good luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

At two weeks after a blepharoplasty you are way too early to see the final results. The incisions will be firm and maybe red for a while. If concerned, speak with you surgeon.

Jessica Kulak, MD · Answer

Two weeks after surgery is very early to tell how your incisions are going to heal.  Eyelid incisions typically heal very well, but all scars go through a healing and maturation process.  Hyperpigmentation, or darkening of scars is possible but usually occurs after 3-4 weeks and is more common in darker skin types. It is important to avoid sun exposure as this can stimulate hyperpigmentation.   This also typically resolves over time.  If you are concerned, you should discuss this with your surgeon.

Samuel Baharestani, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your case. I'm sorry that you are having this problem after blepharoplasty.  It would be helpful to review some photos of your condition.  Make sure that your surgeon is aware of your concerns.  Good luck!

Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

At two weeks this is most likely just some blood clot remaining within the incision, or possibly some persistent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.  In either event this is most likely not a permanent consequence of the surgery as you are very early in your recovery period.  You should in any event follow up with your own plastic surgeon.I hope that this helps and good luck,Dr. Alan EnglerMember of #RealSelf100

Why are my incisions still very dark after upper and lower blepharoplasty two weeks post-op?

Answers (9)

More Eyelid Surgery Questions

Post op day 5. Eyes are crusty and look so much smaller (Photo)

I have bright red rings around my eyes. HELP! (Photo)

Best treatment for under eye hollowing? I am only 29 years old and have severe under eye hollows.

Why is one of my eyelids getting progressively 'puffier' than the other? (Photo)

I have sunken and hollow eye (left) after my ORIF of Zygomatic bone fracture. Is this normal and what should be done to fix it?

I don't know what to do with the broken blue sutures of my blepharoplasty left under the skin?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS