Had a blepharoplasty that went very wrong, scars left on both eyes. What would be the most effective method of revision? (photo)

Question

Operation was nearly 5 years ago, scars appeared almost immediately. Haven't had the funds to seek correction until now, want to be very wary about my choices so I don't make the same mistake twice. Scars jut out about a half inch on either side, giving me a "Cleopatra" style look on each eye. (Please ignore scar on right eyebrow, from a childhood injury)

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

First you are very young to have had such an aggressive blepharoplasty.  This is a big red flag as far as I am concerned.  How is it that you came to have surgery at your age?  What compelled you at such an early age to have eyelid surgery?  One concern is that you have body dysmorphic disorder(BDD).  If that is the case, providing reconstruction for you will be very difficult because studies show that patients with BDD and their surgeons have a very difficult time understanding each other.  That means you are likely to have more surgeries that don't address what you are looking for.   You will be even worse off when that happens.Secondly you cite in your description that you are concerned about scars.  When I look at you, the scars are insignificant compared to the overall effect of the eyelid surgery that you describe as "Cleopatra" style.  You are profoundly hollowed in the upper eyelid, from over aggressive removal of upper eyelid skin and fat.  It is the kind of result that Kenny Rogers had from his eyelid surgery.  Your lower eyelids have had over aggressive lower eyelid surgery with rounding of lateral canthal angles and inferior scleral show.  Stretch back of the lower eyelid has caused disinsertion of the lateral canthal angles with a net loss of the almond shape of the eyes and their width.Before you undertake reconstructive surgery on your eyes, you need to have a very good understanding of where you are going with reconstruction and how it is going to be accomplished.  You may need psychological support if you are BDD and even then there is still a profound risk of disappointment with this type of work if there is any misunderstanding between you and your surgeon.  Finally, there is sometimes an element of emotional abuse in the psychological make up of individuals in this type of situation where you basically end up being coerced by a surgeon with a strong personality.  This relationship relives the emotionally abusive relationship with an authority figure from childhood.  So even as you meet with surgeons, you have to be careful in these situations.  Psychological insight is very helpful before going down this road.  Don't fall into the trap of thinking that you are just one good surgery from being whole.Best of luck and yes, there is help out there when you are ready.

Chase Lay, MD · Answer

how is it that she came to have surgery on what appears to be your lower eyelids at such a young age?  Improving her scars may not be possible but I couldn't say without and in person consultation.  Additionally, I see lower eyelid retraction and U which can be problematic over your lifetime with regards to the pump function of your lower eyelids.  If your condition is bad enough insurance may cover some of your future surgeries if they are needed.what was the reason for the surgery in the first place?

Had a blepharoplasty that went very wrong, scars left on both eyes. What would be the most effective method of revision? (photo)

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