Why will my lower eyelid not move (appears stuck) after facial reconstruct, including orbital floor repair fracture? (Photo)

Question

Involved in an MVA 6 months ago, requiring a 9 hour facial reconstruction due to multiple facial fractures. Most of the trauma was to the left side of my face (including orbit). Eyelid retraction was corrected, but after 6 months post surgery my lower eyelid continues to appear "stuck," no movement with facial expressions (smiling, laughing, squinting0 What is this called? Can/how can this be corrected? Can I do anything at home to assist in correcting it? Thank you for any feedback.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

You need to see an oculoplastic specialist. There is likely scar tissue preventing your eyelid movement, along with weak orbicularis muscle which is responsible for eye closure. Improvements may be possible.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Scaring forms from both the trauma and the reconstructive surgery.  Motor nerve injuries can also have an effect on this.  I have had some success this adhesion syndrome using a variety of methods including reconstruction the glide planes in the mid face with alloderm.  Each situation is unique so without an personal examination, it is impossible to know if you might be benefited from such a reconstruction.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Another way to ask and receive the same response. You need additional reconstructive surgery to correct these residual deformities. Sorry.

Francis (Frank) William Rieger, MD (retired) · Answer

After very serious orbital surgery that you have recently had certainly may be the explanation that the eyelid function is not well healed enough to give you proper function at this time.  The lower lid is not a very active lid to begin with. You will see some degree of improvement, or it will be obvious that some long time scarring may be noted that could be repaired at a later time.  Stay close to your Plastic Surgeon and continue to ask your questions.Good luck to you.FrNk Rieger M.D.  Tampa Plastic Surgeon

Why will my lower eyelid not move (appears stuck) after facial reconstruct, including orbital floor repair fracture? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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