Bubble in the eye after eyelid surgery 22 days ago, will this go away? Starting using steroid drops yesterday. (photo)

Question

I had an eye bag removal surgery 22 days ago. There has been a liquid bubble in my left eye. I am wondering if it will go away. Yesterday I started using steroid eye drop which was prescribed by the doctor. Thanks!

Robert L. Steely, MD, FACS · Answer

Good morning!what you have is chemosis which is swelling of the cornea- very common after lower eyelid surgery.  even though your cornea itself was not operated upon, it tends to get a bit of swelling after surgery.It sounds like you are using a drop to help speed along the recovery- it will resolve completely.I hope this helps

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

This is chemosis which is a swelling of the conjunctiva.  This can occur after a surgery of the lower lids.  You need to use a lot of lubricant drops, and ointment at bedtime.  The steroid drops can also help.  This can take several weeks to fully resolve.

Jeffrey Joseph, MD, FACS · Answer

The bubble you describe appears to be chemosis.  I would use the medication you were prescribed, but keep the eye moist, as dryness is a contributing factor.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

There are several treatment options for eye chemosis, depending on how long it has been there, what is causing it, how bad it is, etc. See following link.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Just like the eyelid can swell, the conjunctiva, the white of the eye, also swells.  When chemosis persist this long after eyelid surgery, dry eye is a big contributor.  Steroid drops alone are generally not sufficient.  Hopefully this was prescribed by an ophthalmologist who also checked your intraocular pressure because the steroid drops can elevate the eye pressure so this needs to be monitored.  Artificial tears frequently during the day and bland ophthalmic ointment at bed time are essential treatment measures for chemosis.

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Adviseeking,The bubble you are seeing is something called chemosis.  It can develop after an eyelid surgery, usually as a result of dryness to the area.  It can be frustrating to treat involving steroids, sometimes incisions, sometimes temporarily closing the eye with a stitch, etc.  The good news is it is expected to go away completely without any issues.  I'd recommend you follow up closely with your doctor to see what all needs to be done.

Mark L. Mazow, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. From the photo you provided the appears to be a fluid collection under the conjunctiva ( the membrane that covers your eye and inside of the eyelid). This is called chemosis and is frequently seen after lower lid surgery. It is due to a temporary disruption in the lymphatic drainange which carries fluid from the lid. This will usually rehabilitate itself after a short time. Steroid drops and frequent lubrication with artificial tears are the best first step and will usually help the issue resolve. If not there are other steps beyond this. Please consult your surgeon and manage it together.

Bubble in the eye after eyelid surgery 22 days ago, will this go away? Starting using steroid drops yesterday. (photo)

Answers (7)

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