3 months post upper and lower bleph and cauterization of malar festoons. Is this normal? (photos)

Question

I had upper and lower Bleph with cauterization of my mallar festoons 3 months ago. At five weeks Co2 laser which seemed to make things look worse. At 3 months My festoons look worse, dark circles on cheeks, wrinkleling. I look awful. Have had laser for the pigment done 3 times, using hydocortisone as well as bleaching cream and warm soaks. I have seen no improvement in the last month. Doctor says healing is prolonged but Im progrssing. Im not seeing much progressing during the past month. Suggestions?

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Stop punishing the cheek.  Let the face heal. This tissue needs time to heal. Once you are 6 to 12 months out, there will be other options.  It is likely that you will not be 100% satisfied and will still be looking for other options.  Consider reposting at that time frame.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

You have had a lot done to the lids in a short time.  After laser you should start to produce new collagen, and this process continues for several months.. So you should see some improvement with time over the cheeks.  The pigment can occur from the inflammation and this will also improve.  Bleaching creams help, but they can also dry out the skin and make it look more wrinkled.  Some bland moisturizer over the area and time will probably be your best option at this point.

Elbert T. Cheng, MD · Answer

Hello,As you know, malar festoons are a difficult problem to treat and correct.  It sounds as if you had good treatments up to this point and I would recommend letting the skin heal without further treatments.  PIH (post-inflammatory pigmentation) is likely the culprit;  at this point, let time and nature improve this.  Obviously avoiding the sun and using sunscreen are very important as well.  How much time is the question - I would probably wait 4-6 months before embarking on anymore lasering.  Best of luck!

Rick Rosen, MD · Answer

It is difficult to answer without an examination and following history. The darkness may be a degree of PIH (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation) from the laser treatment. Treatment of this requires aggressive treatment with skin care products and usually resolves. If it is improving on its own, then continue the course you are on. Malar bags or festoons are very difficult to treat, and it may take time for full improvement. Stay in touch with your surgeon.

3 months post upper and lower bleph and cauterization of malar festoons. Is this normal? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Post upper and lower bleph, laser

Answer: Post upper and lower bleph, laser

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3 months post upper and lower bleph and cauterization of malar festoons. Is this normal? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Post upper and lower bleph, laser

Answer: Post upper and lower bleph, laser

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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.