Eyes are a delicate part of the face and any problems can cause severe discomfort, decrease in quality of life, and damage to an individual’s over-all health. At the NYC offices of Dr. Schwarcz, we specialize in treating lower eyelid retraction, offering relief to those who suffer from this condition.
What is Lower Eyelid Retraction?
When someone suffers from lower eyelid retraction, it means that their lower eyelid has actually been pulled downward. Remember making “scary faces” as a child and pulling your eyelids down to reveal more of your eye? This is precisely the unwanted side effects of lower eyelid retraction. Lower eyelid retraction can occur as a result of trauma, eyelid tumors, or due to internal scarring after a lower eyelid blepharoplasty.
When a patient suffers from lower eyelid retraction, their lower eyelid sags to reveal more of the white sclera of the eye than usual. Generally, this condition occurs when the patient has suffered from some sort of trauma, eyelid tumors, or internal scarring following a lower eyelid blepharoplasty. In some cases, lower eyelid retraction may occur because of a thyroid condition.
What are the Side Effects of Lower Eyelid Retraction?
Since so much of the eye is exposed, this condition can cause uncomfortable side effects. Many of those suffering from lower eyelid retraction complain of redness, discomfort, and tearing. In some cases, the eye may start to discharge mucus. Aside from being physically unpleasant, lower eyelid retraction may also cause the patient to become self-conscious about their appearance, the likelihood of mucus, and how much of their eye is showing.
Common symptoms:
Changing the shape of the eye
Tearing
Mucus discharge
Discomfort
How A Reconstructive Surgeon Can Help Correct Eyelid Retraction
There are various reconstructive surgical techniques used to repair lower eyelid retraction depending on its severity. They include lifting the mid-face, tightening the lower eyelid, placement of a spacer graft and other options.
With the right reconstructive treatment approach, lower eyelid retraction can be reversed and the eyelid restored to its proper position. Since each case is different, we at Dr. Schwarcz’s officeare prepared to offer a wide variety of reparative techniques properly suited for each patient and his or her individual needs.
Generally, healing is achieved by releasing scarred tissue and then putting the eyelid back in place. Dr. Schwarcz and his team are skilled in performing techniques such as lifting the mid-face, tightening the lower eyelid, and space graft options. Contact our Manhattan or Scarsdale office today to see whether you are a candidate for lower eyelid retraction surgery and repair.