Was too much skin removed during upper eyelid surgery? (photos)

Question

I am 7 weeks post surgery I would ask you please to give me your honest opinion if you think to much skin was removed from my eyes after upper eyelid surgery my eyes don't stay closed while I sleep and I can't close them if I put my hair in a ponytail please help I am at my wits end

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

In the one photo it looks like you aren't closing 100%.  We always try to keep at least 10mm of skin above the lid crease, and  you appear to have even more skin than that.  In the photo with the eyes open you look good - and do not look tight or over corrected.  One picture may not be of you??  the eyes are a different color.You look like you still have some  mild swelling, and the muscles that help to close the eye may not be back to 100% yet.  You can do some gentle massage on the lids, and warm compresses.  Use artificial tears during the day, and some ointment at bedtime.  It should continue to improve.

Mehdi Sina, MD · Answer

Hi,An upper eyelid lift requires some restraint. The goal of surgery is to remove as much excess skin without compromising eyelid closure. The gap you are exhibiting is small and will likely improve as you continue to heal from the surgery. If your eyes are dry in the morning, you can use an eye lubricant in the evening and artificial tears during the day. In fairness to your surgeon, your aesthetic outcome is very nice.Best,

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

You are still early in the healing process and it would be difficult to assess the reason for the incomplete closure of your eyelids. It may just be due to swelling or it can be as you said. Your surgeon will be the best resource of information regarding post-op concerns.

Sara A. Kaltreider, MD (retired) · Answer

Several factors cause lagophthalmos (lids not closing completely after blepharoplasty). 1. Immediately after surgery, the anesthetic and swelling prevent normal function of the orbicularis oculi muscle. This should resolve completely over time (8-12 weeks). 2. The septum could be caught in the closure. This may not resolve for many months. Have your surgeon check you periodically. 3. Too much skin removal - it appears that you have plenty left. 4. The lids may be loose from canthus to canthus - several causes - eye-rubbing, sleeping on the face, sleep apnea, eye makeup removal (rubbing). My advice is to give this more healing time, avoid eye-rubbing, use ocular lubricants - drops in daytime and ointment at night for comfort, and see your surgeon for follow-up advice. Best wishes.

Was too much skin removed during upper eyelid surgery? (photos)

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Answer: Too much skin removed?

Answer: Too much skin removed?

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Was too much skin removed during upper eyelid surgery? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Too much skin removed?

Answer: Too much skin removed?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.