Am I experiencing Hering's Law after ptosis surgery?

Question

I had unilateral ptosis surgery a few weeks ago and now the non-operated eye looks droopy. My doctor said my eyes may take awhile to "even out" but I am worried they should be more symmetrical by now. Will this resolve itself or will the now droopy eye need to be operated on as well? If it does resolve itself, how long does it usually take after surgery to look symmetrical?

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

If you only had one eye operated on, and the other one is now falling, that is an example of Herring's Law.  If this stays this way, which it may if it has already been several weeks, you may want to now lift the other eyelid.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

A photograph would be very helpful to discern the type of issue you are having.  Generally ptosis is bilateral with one side more ptotic than the other.  With an appropriately detailed consultation, it is generally straight forward to predict when both sides should be corrected at the same time and also to what degree.  It is also possible to get this wrong.  In the business we like to say if you are told about it in advance, it is an explanation.  If you are told about it after surgery, it is an excuse.  I suspect that a second eyelid ptosis surgery will be in your future.  Consider reposting with a photo for more accurate advice.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Yes, this is a possibility from correction of the affected eye. You may have to have ptosis repair on the opposite eye, but I would give it some more time to see how things respond with the swelling subsiding.

Am I experiencing Hering's Law after ptosis surgery?

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Am I experiencing Hering's Law after ptosis surgery?

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Everything you need to know about Ptosis Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.