1 day post-op upper eyelid surgery: I've noticed that my eye isn't closing. (photos)

Question

Dr said its normal as it is still straight after the surgery... anyways,got home later on and all night long had a problem with closing my eye(left) I'm not sure and very scared that it will not going to b closed again ever and I need some doctors option on this... please help me understand if it's normal... I have upload some pictures of me looking down where I can't close the eye and inner corner of the eyelid isn't going down...

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

That is not my concern for you.  I am concerned that you may have tethered ptosis.  That occurs when eyelid structures are inadvertently sewn to the septal tissues.  The solution is to first diagnose the problem.  Unless your surgeon is an eyelid specialist, they may not even have heard of the complication.  A physical exam is needed to determine if the upper eyelid is stuck by putting traction on the eyelid.  If it is confirmed that the eyelid is stuck, you need urgent surgery to take the eyelid apart and separate the structures that have been sewn together.  This is an urgent problem because the eyes are not properly protecting the corneal surface.  Contact your surgeon today and let them know you are concerned that you might have a tethered upper eyelid due to surgery. Do not take no for an answer. Frequently use ointment in the eyed to protect the eye surface.  Please let us know how you do.

Guy Watts, MBBS (Hons), FRACS (Plast) · Answer

1 day after eyelid surgery it is not uncommon to have some difficulty in closing the eyes. That is why it is extremely important to aggressively lubricate the eyes with artificial tear solutions and ointments to maintain the eye's hydration. I send my patients home on a number of eye drops including hydrating, antibiotics and steroids. If you notice any redness on the white part of the eye, contacting your surgeon and discuss your concerns.RegardsDr Guy Watts

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear Jules131Thank you for your question and photos! Swelling plus the local anesthesia can cause the eyelids not to work properly early after surgery.  Depending on the surgical procedure - this should resolve. Please follow up with your surgeon.With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

Amir Nakhdjevani, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Dear Jules131
Thank you for your enquiry. Due to swelling post surgery you may experience difficulty in closing one or two eyes for up to two day., This is completely normal to experience this and you should sleep elevated, use cold packs or witch hazel on your eyes and continue using eye ointment to lubricate your eyes. If after a couple of days you notice no difference, I would suggest to go back to your consultant for advice.
All the best

Jessica Kulak, MD · Answer

It is common to have an inability to completely close your eye after surgery, especially post operative day 1.  This is most likely due to swelling and bruising. Swelling tends to peak at 48 hours after your surgery. While you wait for your swelling to improve and your eyes to fully close, be sure to keep your eye well lubricated at night and use artificial tears throughout the day.

1 day post-op upper eyelid surgery: I've noticed that my eye isn't closing. (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Completely normal

Answer: Completely normal

Answer: Eye open after blepharoplasty

Answer: Eye open after blepharoplasty

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.

1 day post-op upper eyelid surgery: I've noticed that my eye isn't closing. (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Completely normal

Answer: Completely normal

Answer: Eye open after blepharoplasty

Answer: Eye open after blepharoplasty

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.