Why does one eye actually look physically different to the other? (Photo)

Question

One of my eyes looks different. Yes, it does seem to look bigger in most photos, but there's something that makes them almost look like they could belong to two different people. I'm can't 100% tell why this is. By looking at old photos--either I didn't have this before (8ish years ago) or it was dramatically less noticeable. I have no eye problems that I know of besides subpar vision. What could be the cause of this, and IS THERE A WAY to correct my right eye so it looks more like my left?

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The pictures suggests that the right eye is bigger than the left eye.  The question is why does the right eye look like the left eye.  One eye can actually be longer than the other.  That can be determined by measuring the axial length of the two eyes.  The orbital bone structure of the two sides can be a bit different accounting for the difference.  There are of course other issues.  For this reason, I recommend seeing an oculoplastic surgeon.  The American Society for Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery maintains a regional directory for fellowship trained oculoplastic surgeons, including Canada, on their website.  This can help you find a highly qualified surgeon close to home.

Cory S. Goldberg, BSc, MD, FRCS(C) · Answer

The two sides of our face are always different from one another - one side is always longer / bigger than the other. On your right side the vertical height of your orbit (eye socket) is greater, and this makes the eye look larger. Our two sides are like sisters - not twins. Also, as we age there is some loss of bone support on the lower / outer part of the orbit and upper cheek bone. This often results in lowering of the lower eyelid as is seen in your right eye. This is a normal part of aging, and can be partially corrected with either surgical or non-surgical techniques. I'd suggest discussing this with a Plastic / Craniofacial Surgeon.

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Acasalon,

Your observations are quite common.  It is not unusual for patients to have quite
dramatically different eyelid and eyeball structures.  Eye asymmetries, just like the ear, hand,
feet, nose and breast asymmetries, are a common human trait.  When it is aesthetically noticeable or
displeasing, sometimes cosmetic eyelid surgery, with adjustments of the upper
eyelid tissue or lower eyelid tissue or even angles of the corners of the eyes
can provide some improvement.  Exact
symmetry is rarely achieved and some degree of asymmetry and imperfection is
often necessary.

I have been performing cosmetic blepharoplasty and eyelid
surgery for over 20 years and advising patients to have reasonable expectations
is usually the best course.

I trust this information has been of some assistance and best
of luck. For more information, please review the link below.

Kevin L. Smith, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you so much for your question and photos. Your question can best be answered with specifics only after a face to face consultation so your surgeon can appreciate your eyelid position and shape in all positions - looking up, looking down, etc. In generalities, everyone has facial and eye asymmetry. This is how we were born and it is what gives us character. For some, the asymmetry is distracting or disconcerting causing them to seek correction. Depending on the issues, artistic filler injections, Botox injections and even surgeries can be performed to "equalize" the sides. Be sure to consult an experienced board certified plastic surgeon, facial plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon (or two) to learn your options. Good luck.

Why does one eye actually look physically different to the other? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: One eye looks different than the other

Answer: One eye looks different than the other

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.

Why does one eye actually look physically different to the other? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: One eye looks different than the other

Answer: One eye looks different than the other

Browse related questions

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.