My left eye won't close all the way after double eyelid surgery? (Photo)

Question

I got double eyelid surgery a month ago(incision method) and my left eye wont shut all the way unless i force my eye to shut. I was wondering is this normal? Will it eventuall shut by itself without having to force my eye to shut?

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Upper eyelid surgery weakens eyelid closure on 100% of patients.  Generally this is most noticeable in the first 8 weeks after surgery but generally resolves.  There seems to be some recovery in the muscle strength in most patients.  Generally for this reason, patients are instructed to use tear replacement drops for dry eye and ointment at bedtime as needed during this stage of recover.  Occasionally the issue is more significant and mechanical scaring in the eyelid may be a factor.  This can generally be managed by an experienced eyelid surgeon.

Mark Anton, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Cotton Candy-The contour of your upper eyelids look great and that is what you were trying to improve. I would trust your surgeon and follow his/her lead on this question. It is not uncommon for the upper lid to not quite close all the way one month after surgery. Surgeons are often trying to remove as much skin as possible and still allow the lid to close. In the first month or two after surgery, the swelling and tightness of scar restricts complete upper eyelid movement/closure and the eyelid closing muscle doesn't work as well for awhile due to the swelling (which will resolve). You should obviously keep your eyes moist during this period with things like Refresh drops and patients find it helpful to keep all air off your face at night. In addition, you can give your eyeballs a rest at night by applying the drops, manually closing the lids with your finger, applying a soft ophthalmologic eye pad and covering with a night mask.But again, ask your surgeon.

Javad Sajan, MD · Answer

Hi There, It appears you may have a condition called lagopthalmos. It is not normal to have this one month post surgery. The problem seems minor, however, and may improve with time. I would suggest circular massage of the upper eyelid for three minutes per day three times a day for three weeks. This may help loosen the scar so the eyelid can close. Lagopthalmos can sometimes occur if too much skin has been resected during the blepharoplasty. If it does not resolve with time, you may need a skin graft to correct the condition. Hope this helps, Javad Sajan, MD

Lily Lee, MD · Answer

I wouldn't say this is "normal" or the intended consequence, but I do think that with time and some massage, your eyelid will loosen up and close down. It is of utmost importance right now, however, that you protect your cornea. I would sleep with your eye taped shut or with a generous amount of ointment.

Byron A. Long, MD · Answer

This is a fairly common complication of the surgery if too much skin was removed. It usually improves over time as the eyelid stretches but you need to see an ophthalmologist or oculoplastic specialist to make sure your eye is not getting too dry. This can be very dangerous and lead to permanent harm to the eye. I would definitely be putting an ophthalmic lubricating ointment in before bedtime and use preservative free artificial tears during the day.

Edwin Ishoo, MD · Answer

If one eye is not closing one month after surgery, you need to see your surgeon. This should not be delayed due to drying of eye.

My left eye won't close all the way after double eyelid surgery? (Photo)

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