13 days after upper eyelid surgery, incision is still open about a 1/4" section. Any suggestion? (photos)

Question

The top of it is bulged out and is not adhered to the other side of the lid. Also a small opening at the outside end of incision. I am concerned that it is going to stay open leaving a pouch. The left eye is practically healed.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

However it is actually common.  The eyelid will heal remarkably well despite this dehiscence.  This only very rarely need to be repaired.  The best course is to closely follow the eyelid and often the edges of the wound come together beautifully and without the need for intervention.

Frank P. Fechner, MD · Answer

Some separation of the incision has happened in the area demonstrated by you in the photographs. At this point, supportive measures to maximize healing is the best approach. If revision of the incision scar will be necessary, that is best delayed for a minimum of six months. Chances for that to be necessary are still relatively low.

Jessica Lattman, MD · Answer

There does seem to be some separation of the wound.  At this point there really isnt anything to do except let the incision heal.  I would keep in touch with your surgeon and let him or her know what is going on.  The lids generally heal very well.  So this should not be an issue when you are all healed.

Sirius K. Yoo, MD · Answer

Hi Rowley, thank you for your question.  Your incision seems to have opened which of course is not ideal.  The good news is that the eyelids generally heal very well.  There is nothing to do in the acute setting other than keep in contact with your surgeon, stop pulling on the eyelid (tension is the enemy to good wound healing), and keep the wound moist with ointment until the incision reepithelializes.  If the scar is unacceptable, it can typically be revised between 6 months and a year later.

Kenneth Yu, MD · Answer

Hello.  I see why you are concerned.  The wound has not healed as planned.  Unfortunately, this can happen despite your surgeon's best efforts--though it's rare.  My advice is to be patient and continue practicing good wound care and make sure you keep close follow up with your surgeon.  It's too early to intervene now since it's actively healing, but it will be a simple procedure to revise the scar and achieve a great outcome.  This is just a temporary bump in your recovery.  Good luck.

John Q. Cook, MD · Answer

Hello  Mother Nature is usually a brilliant surgeon.  Small gaps like this are not uncommon after upper eyelid surgery and generally heal quite well if you keep the area clean and moist and scrupulously protect it from the sun.  Please avoid pulling up on the skin as you are doing in the photo (of necessity for a good picture).  Best of luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

This can happen after suture removal, and often takes a little time to heal. It usually heals quite well and usually the results improve with time.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

This does occur and is not rare. This is likely to heal very nicely. Notify your surgeon immediately and send them a photo. If a suture "pops" immediately after surgery I will typically replace it. However, if an incision opens after suture removal as your has you typically only need to keep the wound clean and moist. It will close on its own and often look the same as the side that did not open. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

13 days after upper eyelid surgery, incision is still open about a 1/4" section. Any suggestion? (photos)

Answers (8)

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