I had an upper Blepharoplasty 6 weeks ago. My eyelids still do not shut all the way. I can make my eyelids shut if I "muscle" them down, but if I shut them gently then about 2 mm of sclera shows, particularly from the center of the eyes to the inner corner. My eyes also open now when I sleep. My plastic surgeon said that the amount of sclera showing is mild and will correct itself over time. Is this normal, and is he being honest? I really worry that I'll need to have skin grafts or some sort of corrective surgery.
December 13, 2010
Answer: Upper Blepharoplasty and Eyelid Closure
A small amount of lagophthalmos (inability to close eyelids) is not unusual after eyelid surgery and can persist for days or even weeks afterward. In your situation, I would use a thicker form of eye drop at night time (Refresh PM). Some degree of a dry eye feeling is normal for a few weeks after the surgery, so make sure you use artificial tears frequently. Discuss your concerns with your Surgeon so that he/she can keep close tabs on you and appropriately direct your care.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
December 13, 2010
Answer: Upper Blepharoplasty and Eyelid Closure
A small amount of lagophthalmos (inability to close eyelids) is not unusual after eyelid surgery and can persist for days or even weeks afterward. In your situation, I would use a thicker form of eye drop at night time (Refresh PM). Some degree of a dry eye feeling is normal for a few weeks after the surgery, so make sure you use artificial tears frequently. Discuss your concerns with your Surgeon so that he/she can keep close tabs on you and appropriately direct your care.
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October 8, 2010
Answer: Persistent incomplete eyelid closure
Having this level of incomplete eyelid closure after surgery can occur in some patients. As you are only 6 weeks from having had surgery you still have healing and swelling reduction to occur. As has been mentioned, the key is to keep the eyes lubricated, especially at night. Artificial tears during the day and an ointment (such as lacrilube) at night works best for maintaining a protective coating while you sleep. Additionally, performing exercises to squeeze your eyes close will also help promote normal eye closure.
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October 8, 2010
Answer: Persistent incomplete eyelid closure
Having this level of incomplete eyelid closure after surgery can occur in some patients. As you are only 6 weeks from having had surgery you still have healing and swelling reduction to occur. As has been mentioned, the key is to keep the eyes lubricated, especially at night. Artificial tears during the day and an ointment (such as lacrilube) at night works best for maintaining a protective coating while you sleep. Additionally, performing exercises to squeeze your eyes close will also help promote normal eye closure.
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September 30, 2010
Answer: Incomplete eyelid closure after blepharoplasty
If you had an upper blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) about 6 weeks ago, it's normal to still have incomplete eyelid closure(lagopthalmos) due to swelling. You should be sure to use eye drops and lubricants to ensure that your cornea does not become dry during the night. Unless your surgeon removed too much skin during the surgery (which is rare) your swelling should resolve over the course of weeks.
Be sure to follow up closely with your surgeon or see an ophthalmologist if you have any visual symptoms such as dry eye, excessive watering of the eye, or any visual change.
Best wishes,
Dr. Bruno
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September 30, 2010
Answer: Incomplete eyelid closure after blepharoplasty
If you had an upper blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) about 6 weeks ago, it's normal to still have incomplete eyelid closure(lagopthalmos) due to swelling. You should be sure to use eye drops and lubricants to ensure that your cornea does not become dry during the night. Unless your surgeon removed too much skin during the surgery (which is rare) your swelling should resolve over the course of weeks.
Be sure to follow up closely with your surgeon or see an ophthalmologist if you have any visual symptoms such as dry eye, excessive watering of the eye, or any visual change.
Best wishes,
Dr. Bruno
Helpful 2 people found this helpful