Curious about cause of lower eyelid retraction (Photo)

Question

I underwent lower blepharoplasty over 6 months ago, resulting in mild retraction to my left lower lid. The lower lid is now thick, with either persistent swelling or possibly a slight Entropion. I frequently struggle with dry eye now, both are very gritty, red and uncomfortable a large proportion of the time. I’m curious as to whether this requires scar release, or whether something else is going on. I’m also wondering what the risks of repair being unsuccessful or resulting in further issues.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

You are right that the lower eyelid retraction seems mild by the pictures but it is not. Your eyes are functionally dry and a careful analysis of the lower eyelid position shows they are retracted many millimeters compared to their preoperative position. An actual physical examination would be more revealing. I think based on your symptoms, I would recommend post-blepharoplasty lower eyelid retraction repair. Please understand that lateral canthal tightening (canthoplasty) does not fix lower eyelid retraction. Do not accept a skin graft for a repair--it is disfiguring. I am attaching a video that shows my approach and I am also attaching a link to my website that has more information about this repair.

Curious about cause of lower eyelid retraction (Photo)

Answers (1)