This morning I suddenly saw this in the mirror. Is it something to worry about? (Photo)

Question

Not sure if I woke up like this or it happened during the day. It does not hurt, i just can feel the eye lid heavier. I wear contacts . Otherwise nothing happened, no surgery. I have been under a lot of stress lately and recently got out of an 11h flight 3 days ago.

Stephen H. Fink, DO, FAOCO · Answer

It appears to be the color of blood staining of the skin AKA a bruise. Given the history, I would only be guessing what caused it. Anything that injured or disrupted the small vessels in the skin would be a cause. Perhaps aggressively rubbing the eyelid? If there is no affect on your vision it will likely fade with  time like a normal bruise. If it does not follow this course, I recommend you see an ophthalmologist.

Thomas Buonassisi, MD · Answer

Experiencing a sudden bruise on your eyelid and in the corner of your eye can be concerning, but if there’s no pain or changes to your vision, it may not be serious. Stress, fatigue, or changes in sleep patterns, especially after long flights, can lead to mild bruising or swelling in that area. It's also possible that the bruise developed during sleep or due to minor trauma you might not recall. However, if the bruising worsens, you notice changes in vision, or if it becomes painful, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.

Kyle Kimura, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the associated photos! This looks like a small hemorrhage (bleed) underneath the skin of the eyelid. This skin is incredibly thin and small blood vessels live right under the surface so they can be easily ruptured with pressure (even as minimal as scratching or rubbing your eyes). This will almost certainly improve on its own over time, however you can look into some different over the counter medications to help speed things along including arnica and bromelain. Though rare, it could also be a sign of underlying bleeding disorder and may warrant evaluation/blood testing by your primary care physician especially if you have had prolonged bleeding or other bleeding issues in the past.
Hope this helps! Kyle Kimura, MD

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

It looks like a bruise but best to see an ophthalmologist or oculoplastic specialist for in person evaluation.

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photo. It appears that you had a small hemorrhage in the eyelid. This is not an uncommon area for hemorrhages to occur for no apparent reason. Fortunately, it will fade without treatment and is nothing to be concerned about if it is the only bruise on your body. If there are any changes, inform your doctor. Good luck.

This morning I suddenly saw this in the mirror. Is it something to worry about? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Spontaneous eyelid bruise ?

Answer: Spontaneous eyelid bruise ?

Answer: Eyelid Hemorrhage

Answer: Eyelid Hemorrhage

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This morning I suddenly saw this in the mirror. Is it something to worry about? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Spontaneous eyelid bruise ?

Answer: Spontaneous eyelid bruise ?

Answer: Eyelid Hemorrhage

Answer: Eyelid Hemorrhage

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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.