Getting rid of the scleral show - Surgery under local anesthesia? (photo)

Question

How to get rid of the scleral show? Can a surgery be done without an implant and under local anaesthesia? Are there non-surgical alternatives? I’d rather my eyes were ,,sharper” than round.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Scleral show occurs when the lower eyelid rests too low, exposing the white of the eye below the iris. There are several ways to address this issue, including surgical and non-surgical options.

Non-surgical options include using temporary filler injections, such as hyaluronic acid-based fillers, to add volume to the area below the lower eyelid. This can help to lift the eyelid and reduce the amount of sclera that is visible. However, this is a temporary solution that typically lasts for several months, and the treatment would need to be repeated periodically.

Surgical options for treating scleral show include a procedure called a canthoplasty, which involves tightening the ligament that holds the lower eyelid in place. Depending on the extent of the issue, this may be done under local anesthesia or with sedation. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision at the outer corner of the eye, and the ligament will be tightened or repositioned to lift the lower eyelid. In some cases, a small implant may be placed to support the eyelid and prevent it from drooping.

Another surgical option is a midface lift, which involves lifting the tissues under the lower eyelid to reduce the amount of sclera that is visible. This procedure is typically done under general anesthesia and may involve an incision inside the mouth or along the lower eyelid.

It's important to discuss your specific concerns and goals with a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon who specializes in treating scleral show. They can evaluate your eyelids, recommend the most appropriate treatment options, and discuss the potential risks and benefits of each approach.

Best of luck !

Getting rid of the scleral show - Surgery under local anesthesia? (photo)

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Getting rid of the scleral show - Surgery under local anesthesia? (photo)

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