Indented eyelid scar, 12 months old - how can this be treated? (Photos)

Question

Indented eyelid scar from surgery 12 months ago, stitches ripped in first 24 hours and surgeon did not reseal. Now left with huge noticeable indented scar- is there anything that can be done? The surgeon keeps saying it will fill in, but doesn’t say when..….

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

I completely understand how frustrating it can be to have a noticeable indented scar on such a delicate area, especially after a surgical experience that didn’t go as planned. A scar that is 12 months old is usually considered mature in terms of healing, which means the natural “filling in” process your surgeon mentioned is largely done, though subtle improvements can sometimes continue for a bit longer.

For an indented scar like yours, there are several options depending on the depth, size, and skin quality:

Dermal fillers: Temporary hyaluronic acid fillers can lift the depression, making the scar less noticeable. Results are immediate but last several months, and repeated treatments are needed if you want ongoing correction.

Laser treatments: Fractional CO₂ or erbium lasers can remodel the scar tissue, stimulate collagen, and improve texture. Multiple sessions are often required for best results.

Microneedling with or without PRP: This can help stimulate collagen in the indented area and soften the scar, though it works more subtly than fillers or surgery.

Surgical revision: If the indentation is deep and bothersome, a scar revision procedure or skin grafting may be considered. This is more invasive but can provide the most permanent improvement.

Steroid or silicone options: Silicone gel or sheets may help if there is any tension or minor irregularity, though for a year-old mature scar, they usually have limited effect.

Given that your stitches didn’t hold and the area has healed unevenly, a combination of these treatments is sometimes the most effective approach. Patience is key, but at 12 months, meaningful improvement usually requires intervention rather than waiting further.

It’s important to work with someone experienced in eyelid and delicate facial scars to avoid further distortion or functional issues.

Indented eyelid scar, 12 months old - how can this be treated? (Photos)

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