Orbital decompression, implants or grafts to improve protruding eyes? (photos)

Question

I would like to improve the appearance of my protruding eyes. Is there a best option for both safety and long-term cosmetic appearance between orbital grafts, implants or decompression? Is there a better option or combination of surgeries that may be helpful? I do not have any thyroid related illnesses.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The risk of going blind from orbital decompress can be as high as one case in 1000. The risk is less if no bone is removed. But proptosis is not why your eyes look prominent. If you ask surgeons for a particular surgery, someone will perform that surgery for you even if you don't actually need it. Your issue is not proptosis. Your issue is significant upper eyelid ptosis. You have a compensatory eyebrow elevation. This exposed your upper eyelid platform and makes it look like you do not have an upper eyelid fold. By fixing the upper eyelid ptosis, the eyebrows will relax and return to a more relaxed, normal position. You don't need an orbital decompression or a rim implant for this. There is no substitute for a detailed personal assessment. Your eyes can be your best feature.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

Cosmetic orbital decompression will reduce the bulging appearance of your eyes. Infraorbital rim implant may be alternative option. Best to have personal evaluation and discussion to determine realistic goals and risks and benefits.

Damien Grinsell, MBBS, FRACS (Plast) · Answer

Hi NicolaThe main issue with your eyes that I see is that you have ptosis which is a sagging upper lid.  If this was addressed in combination with a conservative upper blepharoplasty I think you would get an acceptable result.  I would not recommend orbital decompression or implants.CheersDamien

Orbital decompression, implants or grafts to improve protruding eyes? (photos)

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Orbital decompression, implants or grafts to improve protruding eyes? (photos)

Answers (3)

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