Will my left eye need a revision? I'm 6 weeks post bilateral upper and trans conjunctival lower lid blepharoplasties. (photos)

Question

In addition to the blepharoplasties, I had 50% removal of my left lacrimal gland due enlargement and pain (chronic dacryadenitis). I also had removal of a granuloma probably cause by a steroid injection. While I'm happy that the removal was able to be done through the eyelid incision, I'm unhappy with the asymmetry of my eyes. Do you think this is still lingering swelling? I also still have malar swelling. Thank you.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for the pictures. I think your asymmetry is the swelling. I would be very slow to push for revision. I would wait a minimum of three months maybe six

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

You are still quite swollen.  Even though the internet seems to imply that eyelid surgery should be healed in 2 weeks, that time frame is absolutely not accurate.  We take much more time to heal. I think a more realistic time frame for judging the effects of your surgery is 4 to 6 months.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

You are still healing at 6 weeks.  Your surgeon also had to do more work on the left side with the lacrimal gland.  this will cause more edema and slower healing.  It still appears that you have some inflammation and edema, so be patient and much of this may still improve.

Joseph A. Eviatar, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very common to have asymmetry post surgery, especially since you didn't just have eyelid surgery but surgery deeper to the skin.  I would wait and it should improve.  It can take up to 6 months to get the final result and I would recommend waiting that long before entertaining doing anything else surgical.  Remember that sometimes there are non surgical options for slight asymmetries as well but it is essential to allow for healing before traumatizing the tissue any more with another procedure.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

After receiving a very detailed operation you think you have asymmetry of any note?? I do not see any real issue for the amount and type of operation preformed. Best to allow 6 months healing than re evaluate your position. Might want to think about the concept of 'realistic expectation'.

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.  You appear to still have a significant amount of postop swelling which is normal, especially if the procedure is more involved such as yours.  You have an excellent result which will continue to improve as the swelling resolves.  The malar bags are a different issue and require more intervention that a traditional blepharoplasty.  You appear to be in good hands.  Feel free to discuss your concerns with your surgeon. Best wishes.

Will my left eye need a revision? I'm 6 weeks post bilateral upper and trans conjunctival lower lid blepharoplasties. (photos)

Answers (6)