Can ptosis be temporary after a lower bleph or is it a permanent problem? (photos)

Question

I am 34 & had a lower bleph w/ skin removal on 1/23/15. Stitches were removed 1/28/15 and surgical tape was replaced on outer corners of eyes. I was instructed to remove each piece on 2/2/15, which I did. It is now 2/3/15 & not only is my right lower lid hard (w/ a lump towards the outer corner & still bruised) but lower left lid is drooping. Will this be permanent and thus require surgical correction. If that is not the case, how long will it take before I no longer look bad?

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

You have two issues here.  One is the ptosis of the left upper eyelid.  It is possible that it was lower than the right side pre-op but the additional swelling from the lower lid surgery has made it fall.  This will improve as the swelling improves.  The left lower lid is also pulling down. This can be due to the swelling as well, and I would also recommend some warm compresses and gentle massage to help elevate the corner.  You are very early in the healing period so I would not be overly concerned at this point.

Lawrence Kass, MD · Answer

So, I differ a little bit from my colleagues. Yes, the ptosis can be a result of swelling after lower eyelid surgery.  But I say RELAX!  While I only have the benefit of a single photo, I think that the odds are excellent that you will have absolutely no problems if you are patient and wait a few months before judging the results of your surgery. Good luck!

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

However, when I look at you, and I do not have the benefit of examining you or having your preoperative photos, I have concerns.  Swelling can lead to upper eyelid ptosis.  Normally the upper eyelid ptosis does resolve with time.  The proviso is that it does not always full resolve.  The weight of the swollen eyelid can pull and stretch the tendons in the upper eyelid and cause a permanent change in the eyelid tissues that might necessitate that these tissues be repaired if the ptosis persists more than 6 to 12 months.  The lower eyelids both show lateral ectropion.  The right side is minimal and likely to heal satisfactorily with time.  I am more concerned with the left side.  The prudent course is careful observation of these tissues and a lateral cathnoplasty to support the eyelid if the lid dose not begin to return to a better position over the next few weeks.  My opinion is that massaging this type of a problem does not make the situation better.  Neither does tapping but both are routinely recommend and honestly I have used them myself with mixed results.  Please follow closely with your surgeon.  Follow his or her advise and consider reposting if more questions arise during the process.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

You need to massage the lower lid upwards routinely throughout the course of the day for multiple days during your recovery period.  This can help correct an incipient lower lid lag problem.  If after 4-6 weeks the issue is still present, you may need a canthopexy to correct this.

Boris M. Ackerman, MD · Answer

You are onoy about 10 days after your surgery.  The slight retraction of your lids could very well resolve with time. It is imperative that yoru surgeon sees you for follow up on regular bases.  You could require some distraction exercises during your recovery.

Can ptosis be temporary after a lower bleph or is it a permanent problem? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Lower lid lag

Answer: Lower lid lag

Answer: Lower blepharoplasty recovery

Answer: Lower blepharoplasty recovery

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Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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Can ptosis be temporary after a lower bleph or is it a permanent problem? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Lower lid lag

Answer: Lower lid lag

Answer: Lower blepharoplasty recovery

Answer: Lower blepharoplasty recovery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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