7 weeks post lower/upper bleph, still swollen and discolored under eyes. (photos)

Question

7 weeks ago I had an upper/lower bleph with fat repositioning and a 20% tca chemical peel under my eyes. I still have swelling and brown discoloration under my eyes which makes me appear worse then before i had my surgery. I am currently using a skin bleaching cream twice a day to attempt to lighten the dark circles and I am icing my eyes to try and reduce swelling. What else can I do to fix these issues and when do you think this will (or can ) resolve? What is a realistic time limit for final results ?

Konstantin Vasyukevich, MD · Answer

Dear Mich18,I understand it is quite frustrating for you to have problems with pigmentation and swelling so long after your surgery.  However, I would advise to be patient.  It is possible (although fairly uncommon) to have prolonged swelling and bruising after blepharoplasty, especially when it's combined with the fat grafting.  Hydroquinone cream is unlikely to be of help in this situation and cold comprises may actually make the swelling worse.  I would recommend warm (but not hot!) compresses 2-3 times daily and a very gentle tapping massage around the eyes.  Be prepared that it might take another 2-3 month for things to start getting better.Best wishes!Dr. Konstantin

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

I don't know precisely what you looked like before surgery but I clearly see your mid cheek groove coming down your mid face.  The discoloration almost looks like you are still bruise.  You might ask your surgeon to consider performing IPL to remove any residual blood elements in this area.  As frustrating at this sounds, I think you are probably still swollen and I would anticipate that in one or two months you will be substantially better.  I don't think that your issue related to your surgeon doing something "wrong."  I think the issue is that you have a very thin mid-face that just does not hide swelling well. Try to be patient and don't have goofy things done while you are healing.  This is not the place to go wild with steroids.  Do your best with make up and please let yourself heal.  I do not think that bleaching cream is going to help here.  I also do not think that you are helping yourself by icing.  My advice would be to leave this area along and let it heal for now.  Repost and let us know how you are doing with this.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question and excellent posting of photos. You have slight hyperpigmantation due to the TCA + surgery. I recommend 4 to 8% hydroquinone creams twice daily...

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

7 weeks is just the beginning of wound healing.  You look fine.  All is NORMAL.  Relax and enjoy your surgery.   You will be just fine.  My Best,  Dr C

7 weeks post lower/upper bleph, still swollen and discolored under eyes. (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Wound healing takes one year

Answer: Wound healing takes one year

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7 weeks post lower/upper bleph, still swollen and discolored under eyes. (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Wound healing takes one year

Answer: Wound healing takes one year

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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.