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

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!

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

Answers (5)