5 Signs You Need Revision Eyelid Surgery
Most patients undergoing eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, do so for aesthetic or medical reasons. Blepharoplasty surgery is an effective way to remove loose skin and excess fat around the eyes that can add years to the overall appearance and even interfere with the proper function of the eyelid. If the cosmetic surgeon is not skilled in the procedure, the patient may experience complications and require a revision surgery to correct the issue.
Reasons to Undergo a Revisional Eyelid Blepharoplasty:
Eyelid surgery is not a forgiving procedure. Even the slightest mistake can create undesirable results. The following are a few of the most common reasons why a patient may opt for corrective surgery.
Drooping Eyelids
The most common reasons that the eyelids may continue to droop following the original surgery are that too little skin was removed or that the levator muscle responsible for lifting the eyelid was not tightened. This can be corrected with a revisional surgery that tightens the muscle to create a more refreshed and vibrant appearance.
Distorted Eye Shape or Contour
An example of this type of issue is a sagging lower eyelid that reveals more of the white than normal. The problem typically occurs when too little or too much skin is removed. A revision blepharoplasty can help restore the natural shape of the eye.
Inability to Blink or Shut the Eyes
This issue can occur if too much skin is removed during an upper eyelid surgery. The skin is then so tight that the eyes cannot completely close, which is referred to as lagophthalmos. This is not only uncomfortable, but it also increases the risk of injury to the eye by dust and other debris. A revision blepharoplasty that uses skin grafts can make it possible to blink and close the eyes properly.
Undereye Hollowness
This issue can occur if the surgeon removed too much fat from the lower eyelids. The result is that the eyes appear sunken, which makes the individual look ill or tired. Revision blepharoplasty surgery can be used to add volume to the hollow areas to create a younger, rested, and alert appearance.
Asymmetry
While no one has perfectly symmetrical eyes, a poorly executed eyelid surgery can make the eyes appear noticeably unbalanced. This can occur if too much fat is removed from around one eye, if more skin is removed from one side than the other, or if the levator muscle of one eye is tightened too much. Revisional surgery can restore the normal symmetry of the eyes.
When considering eyelid revision surgery, it is best to seek out a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Robert Schwarcz with specific expertise in performing these types of procedures. Click here to learn about what is involved in an eyelid blepharoplasty procedure.