What to do when eyelid surgery goes awry?

Although there are typically very low risks to having eyelid surgery with an eyelid specialist, there are some cases in which results are not ideal. The factors that contribute to a botched eyelid surgery can include, but are not limited to, a surgeon’s experience, complicated cases, patient not following directions, healing disorders, and other underlying conditions. At Lewen Cosmetic Center, we approach eyelid surgeries with a goal of getting it right the first time. We want patients to have the best result possible without putting them through additional, unnecessary procedures. With that being said, we will also inform you if it isn’t in your best interest to proceed with a surgery if it is believed you won’t heal properly or encounter complications. However, even with all necessary precautions and planning, sometimes results can be less than ideal or require extra attention. For this reason, Dr. Lewen prefers to keep a close eye on all of his surgical patients with extra hand holding and attention than that of most general plastic surgeons.

How do I know if I need a revision eyelid surgery?

If you find yourself asking this question, it may be best to seek medial advice from an oculoplastic surgeon. Common issues to look for when questioning the need for a revision eyelid surgery are:

• Lid retraction This happens when the eyelid pulls away from the eye itself leaving the lids unable to completely close, and essentially, putting the health and safety of the eye at risk.
• Unsightly scars Thicker scars tend to form during the first few weeks following surgery, which is why all post-operative patients should be closely monitored and follow strict direction of limiting strenuous activity until cleared by their surgeon. Hypertrophic scarring following surgery can usually be softened and resolved easily with injections of steroids.
• Uneven lid appearance Many factors can contribute to the uneven appearance of eyelid height following surgery. Dependent on the specific eyelid surgery performed, there may be different approaches taken to resolve the issue. In most cases, evenness can be achieved with a simple in office procedure such as one of Dr. Lewen’s specialty facial filler injections.
• Hollow or sunken eyelids following a blepharoplasty Having hollow or sunken eyelids as a result from an upper or lower blepharoplasty procedure is likely due to having too much fat or volume removed. With these cases, for the most part, volume can be restored with a non-surgical in office procedure known as the cannula eyelid lift or subbrow specialty filler.
• Round eye shape Rounding of the eyes following an eyelid procedure can be a result from multiple eyelid surgeries and scar tissue causing an irregular shape. These types of cases typically require a revision canthoplasty to restore the almond eye shape, and sometimes are done with a graft to lift the eyelid back to its normal position.

What are the risks to having a revision eyelid surgery?

As with any eyelid surgery, the most common risks following an eye procedure is bruising, swelling, and dry eyes. With multiple eyelid surgeries, the dry eye issues can worsen significantly. We generally won’t proceed with additional eye surgeries until a patient has their dry eyes under control. This approach is solely for the comfort and safety of the patient, and one of the many reasons you should have an oculoplastic surgeon perform your blepharoplasty, ptosis repair, canthoplasty, reconstruction, and/ or revision eyelid surgery as they are fully equipped and trained to address any concerns or complications should they arise following your procedure.

Will my eyes be comfortable following surgery?

The most discomfort a patient has following droopy eyelid surgery is dry eyes. Dry eyes can be managed and should be checked regularly by your surgeon. Most commonly, patients will be instructed to use regular artificial tears leading up to and following surgery, along with use of a thicker eye ointment for added dry eye relief. For specific dry eye relief instructions following your surgery, you should consult your chosen oculoplastic surgeon.

Can my eyes go back to the shape they used to be before eyelid surgery?

We are regularly asked what can be done to give patients back their natural eye shape. This can be an emotional time for patients, and generally requires a more in-depth consultation dependent on the amount of previous eyelid surgeries a patient has had. While keeping the health of the eye as a priority, there are procedures that can either fully restore the natural eye shape or at least give the illusion as such. The best way to determine if you are a candidate for a revision eyelid surgery or to see what surgical or non-surgical route is best for you, is to come in for a consultation with Dr. Lewen who is a double-board certified Oculoplastic Facial and Reconstructive Surgeon.

info@lewencosmetic.com
305.514.0631