Right Eye is Smaller Than my Left - How Should I Correct This?(photo)

Question

my right eye has always looked smaller than my left. What would be the best way to correct this or just make them look even. I'm 30 years old.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

There are multiple anatomic abnormalities that can result in facial asymmetry. These may include deformities of the orbital bones, eyelid soft tissue and eyebrows. In most cases, they are relatively minor, but in some cases, they may be severe and extremely noticeable. Depending upon the deformity, treatment may or may not be possible. Although, it's hard to tell exactly what's going on from your pictures, I suspect you have boney orbital asymmetry. In addition, you appear to have minimal eyelid ptosis and a depressed eyebrow.Asymmetry of the facial bones can be a major contributor to facial asymmetry. When this occurs, it's not unusual to have one side of the face that has a depressed orbital rim and flattened cheekbone and an eye that appears smaller than the opposite side. This is often related to a condition called plagiocephaly.When this situation arises, it's possible in some cases, to disguise asymmetry. Unfortunately, it's not possible to correct the boney deformity without major surgery. In this case, a unilateral brow lift in combination with an eyelid ptosis repair are both possible options. If you're considering treatment, it's important that you meet with a board certified plastic surgeon who can help you with this decision.

Cameron Chesnut, MD, FAAD, FACMS · Answer

Many different situations can lead to uneven eyelids. Some of these can be treated non-surgically and conservatively, even using some very advanced injection techniques with filler or very precise placement of Botox. Some situations truly do require surgery to resolve. 
It is important that you seek a consultation with an eyelid expert to delineate the exact cause and treatment options.
To ensure you are receiving the highest level of care, seek out a modernly trained, new-school dermatologic surgeon, oculoplastic surgeon, facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon who is board certified and fellowship trained in one of these "core four" cosmetic specialties. Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery help to identify a highly trained surgeon.
Cameron Chesnut
#realself500 Physician

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

You probably have a ptotic (droopy) right upper eyelid which can easily be repaired with one of a few methods. There is the possibility that your left eye is bulging forward. You should make an appointment for consultation with an oculoplastic surgeon who can thoroughly evaluate your problem and propose a treatment plan.

A.J. Amadi, MD · Answer

Based on your photos, its impossible for us to know if its the right eye that is droopy, or possibly your LEFT eye is bulgy....or it could be a combination of the two.

	Its important to have a consultation with an Oculoplastic Surgeon to fully evaluate these possibilities.

	You can find one close to you by clicking on the link I provided below.

	Good luck.

Marc DuPéré, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Upper lid droopy appearance can be caused by:

	
		excess of skin in the upper lid itself and/or the presence of fat pads
	
		brow ptosis (ie. sagginess)
	
		lid ptosis (ie. sagginess)


	It seems in your case that your upper lid itself is saggy and would require perhaps a levator aponeurosis advancement.  Levator is the muscle responsible for lifting your upper lid.  Again, a one-on-one consultation with a qualified surgeon is required for a formal assessment.

	Make sure you see a qualified surgeon for this issue.  Best of luck!  Dr. Marc Dupere, Toronto Plastic Surgeon, board-certified.

Right Eye is Smaller Than my Left - How Should I Correct This?(photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Ptosis right eye....or bulgy left eye!

Answer: Ptosis right eye....or bulgy left eye!

Answer: Eyelid sagging on one side needs an upper eyelid reconstructive repair

Answer: Eyelid sagging on one side needs an upper eyelid reconstructive repair

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.

Right Eye is Smaller Than my Left - How Should I Correct This?(photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Ptosis right eye....or bulgy left eye!

Answer: Ptosis right eye....or bulgy left eye!

Answer: Eyelid sagging on one side needs an upper eyelid reconstructive repair

Answer: Eyelid sagging on one side needs an upper eyelid reconstructive repair

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.