What could have caused my uneven eyes and how can it be fixed? (Photo)

Question

Long time contact wearer. 21 years old.

Alan B. Brackup, MD, FACS · Answer

Looking at your photo, your left upper lid does sit a little bit lower than the right one.  As others have pointed out this may be a result of a weakening of the muscle that lifts the lid, possibly related to contact lens use.  Additionally, your lower lid rides a bit higher than the right side as well.  There is a condition known as Horner's syndrome that you might have been born with but was never recognized that can give this same appearance. I would go see an oculoplastic surgeon for a further evaluation.

Debra M. Kroll, MD · Answer

You may have a mild ptosis and mild brow ptosis on the left side.  The orbital volume appears slightly smaller on the left side as well.  The eyelid lifting muscle on the left could be slightly stretched from being a contact lens wearer.  I would consider consulting with an Oculoplastic surgeon in person.  You can discuss your concerns with him or her and come up with a plan vs. observation.  This does not constitute official medical advice.  Good luck.

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding uneven eyelids.  This condition is typically related to a stretched or partially detached upper eyelid muscle.  This can be present from birth, associated with aging, trauma, acquired over time or other eyelid diseases. The first step is to rule out any other conditions.  Surgery to tighten up the muscle can be performed to make the eyelids more even.  Best wishes.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I don't really see any significant asymmetry in the photograph submitted. Very modest asymmetries are common and should not be addressed surgically.

John A. Standefer Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

There are many causes of uneven appearance of the eyes. Some require surgery and some do not. If the physical size of the orbital bone is different, the eyeball can set a little deeper into the orbit than if it more shallow. This is not usually corrected surgically.  Sometimes the eyelid is lower than the other side. (ptosis). This does not seem to be the case from your photo. If there is any difference in your brow position, it appears extremely minimal. I don't think wearing of contacts has caused any changes in your eye appearance. I don't have enough information from the photograph to recommend any surgical solution. It appears that you have a mild asymmetry between the bony orbits to give you a slight difference in the apparent opening of the eyelids. John Standefer MD

What could have caused my uneven eyes and how can it be fixed? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Modest asymmetry of the eyelids is the rule rather than the exception.

Answer: Modest asymmetry of the eyelids is the rule rather than the exception.

Answer: Uneven eyes

Answer: Uneven eyes

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Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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What could have caused my uneven eyes and how can it be fixed? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Modest asymmetry of the eyelids is the rule rather than the exception.

Answer: Modest asymmetry of the eyelids is the rule rather than the exception.

Answer: Uneven eyes

Answer: Uneven eyes

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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.