7 weeks post op lower and upper eyelid surgery, red bumps and thickening around whole scar. Any suggestions? (photos)

Question

I have thickening of both scars , right eye is very sore with red bumps at the length on whole scar. Left eye red sore bump in the corner. 3 weeks ago when I noticed this problem my doctor asked me to squeeze bumps for any stuff which is accumulated there and he asked me to go to my GP, GP referred me to optomology doctor who prescribed oral and topical antibiotic with steroids, so far no improvement , I have no more trust in my plastic surgeon!What should I do now?

Bhupendra C.K. Patel, MD, FRCS · Answer

Before starting steroids willy-nilly, if there are bumps, and there is accumulation of material in your scars (bumps as you call them), it is wise for your surgeon to obtain appropriate cultures. There are times when patients will get rare but concerning infections with low-grade bacteria which will just fester. Once the culture has been obtained, appropriate treatment may be commenced. If you have actual bumps, it sometimes helps to reopen the incisions, remove any material that is accumulated (and obtain staining and cultures) and treat appropriately.The fact that you have obtained no improvement with "oral and topical antibiotic with steroids" should tell you that this needs to be looked at carefully. Go and see one of these surgeons who are close to you and print this answer out and show it to them and get a proper opinion:Dr. Ronald Mancini Dr. Mark MazowGood luck.Prof. BCK Patel MD, FRCS

Elizabeth Whitaker, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question and sharing your photo and concerns.  After eyelid surgery, there can be bumps called "milia" that form where the sutures were.  However, given the redness and soreness of the incision that you are experiencing, I would be concerned about hypertrophic scarring also.  I would recommend you re-contact your surgeon and discuss with them.  If you have lost faith in them, then I would consider evaluation by a facial plastic surgeon or other cosmetic surgery specialist for a second opinion."This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Thomas Guillot, MD (retired) · Answer

Sometimes patients will have post op dermatoses that need to be treated with steroids ( either topical and/or Medrol Dospak).  I have seen this occur and it usually responds best to this treatment.  I would still go back to see your plastic surgeon for a recheck.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

Yes it was the responsibility of your plastic surgeon to diagnosis  and treat your eyelids.    I have seen patients with this type of reactivity.  You will be calmed a lot by treating with back to back courses of steroids (Prednisone).   I would recommend Medrol Dosepack for ease of use.   The steroids and antibiotics will help also so keep these up from your ophthalmologist .    My Best,  Dr C

7 weeks post op lower and upper eyelid surgery, red bumps and thickening around whole scar. Any suggestions? (photos)

Answers (4)