When the lower eyelids sit too low on the eye, or have a rounded appearance, that is called lower eyelid retraction. This condition may be caused by previous lower eyelid surgery such as blepharoplasty, scarring due to long-term sun exposure or trauma, or thyroid eye disease. Upper eyelid retraction is when the upper eyelid sits too high on the eye and is usually caused by thyroid eye disease or scarring.
There are various ways to surgically correct the retracted eyelid, moving it to a more natural position. Often, a canthoplasty, which is a procedure that secures the outer corner of the eyelid, is performed. A spacer graft such as Alloderm may be placed inside the eyelid to replace lost volume. Sometimes a skin graft or midface lift is necessary to achieve desired results.
You can expect to go home on the day of surgery after eyelid retraction repair. There is usually minimal to no pain and most patients can resume normal daily activities within a week of surgery. A patch will be placed over the eye and usually is kept in place for one to two days. Tylenol is recommended to ease the discomfort, which should subside within a few days.
Dr. Kashyap is a NYC Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon that serves patients in the Manhattan, Flatiron, Gramercy, Murray Hill, and Grand Central areas. If you are interested in treatment to correct eyelid retraction, call us today at (347) 788-1841 to schedule a consultation.