Lower eyelid doesn't touch the eye after blepharoplasty? (Photo)

Question

I had lower blepharoplasty and face fat transfer done 5 days ago and since the day one I noticed that my lower eyelid doesn't touch the globe of the eye. The lid is not pushed down like on typical eyelid retraction but just separated from the eye by few milliliters. My cheeks are very swollen and when I push the cheek up everything closes nicely. Is this caused by swollen cheek or is this early sign of eyelid retraction? My other eye looks normal even tough other cheek is swollen too.

Mehdi Sina, MD · Answer

Hi,Thank you for your question and for including a photo. Lower eyelid laxity is not uncommon following surgery, you may benefit from having it re-taped so as to tighten the lower lid while you continue to heal. It is best to follow up with your surgeon for specific instructions.Best,Mehdi Sina, MD

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

The eyelid malposition is due to the eyelid surgery rather than the fat grafting and is more common when an external incision is made which goes through the supporting eyelid muscle and causes temporary paralysis.  Usually this recovers on its own. I would follow closely with your surgeon

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Time may help here.  The skin incision permanent weakens the motor function of the muscle that helps hold the lower eyelid margin against the eye.  That eyelid functions as a windshield wiper. You will most likely have dry eye symptoms.  For some, there is a degree of recover of motor function but this can take a couple of months. If this does not improve, surgery will be necessary to correct this malposition.

Samuel Baharestani, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your case and photo.  I can see where the eyelid has been pulled away from your eye.  What is the purpose of the tape/bandage in the photo?  Make sure that your surgeon is aware of your condition.  Sometimes, the weight of the swelling along with muscle recovery after surgery can temporarily cause the lids to pull away. Upward massage and steroid or anti-scar injections may help in the early recovery period.  Good luck!

Katrinka L. Heher, MD · Answer

At five days I would not be worried as this will more than likely resolve with time. If you have deeper bruising or swelling compared to the right side this can account for the gaping.  It does not appear that too much skin was removed. I hope you find this reassuring and best of luck.

Lower eyelid doesn't touch the eye after blepharoplasty? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Eyelid Retraction

Answer: Eyelid Retraction

Answer: Post lower bleph

Answer: Post lower bleph

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Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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Lower eyelid doesn't touch the eye after blepharoplasty? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Eyelid Retraction

Answer: Eyelid Retraction

Answer: Post lower bleph

Answer: Post lower bleph

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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.