Revisional Eyelid Surgery

What are the reasons for eyelid revision surgery?

The most common reasons that patients seek eyelid surgery revolve around dissatisfaction with eyelid position, which can cause:

Droopy or baggy eyelids (Under-correction following blepharoplasty surgery)

If not enough upper eyelid skin or excess fat is removed, the upper lid becomes too low or droopy (known as ptosis), and the lower eyelids can have an under-eye baggy look.

Sunken or hollowed-out eyelid appearance (over-correction following an eyelid blepharoplasty procedure)

The upper eyelid is a very complex structure. If too much skin and tissue are removed from the upper eyelid crease, the eyes can appear hollowed out, or the lower eyelids appear too far down, revealing too much of the whites of the eye (known as the scleral show).

One of the most common reasons patients consult with us about a revision surgery is that too much tissue had been removed in their previous surgery. 

Addressing these issues is complex and must be carefully planned to achieve the desired results. Our revisions often require volume augmentation of the upper eyelid, with our results incredibly satisfying to our patients.

Eyelid asymmetry

When a person's two eyelids are not identical or symmetrical, the result can be a difference in the eyelids' size, shape, position, or function.

The eyelids can become poorly positioned when too much skin or fat is removed. An asymmetrical, unbalanced, and unnatural appearance can be an unfortunate result. That is when we perform a Blepharoplasty revision to realign everything to restore the previous symmetry.

Visible scarring 

A patient might request a surgical procedure for scar revision following a blepharoplasty procedure or a brow lift due to noticeable scars and bumps around the incision areas. If scarring is the primary reason for eyelid revision surgery, we can effectively correct this with our scar revision procedures.

Poor blinking or inability to close the eye 

If too much tissue is removed (excess skin excision) during an eyelid lift, making it hard to close the eyes properly. This inability to blink or near the eyes properly can lead to dry eye symptoms.

Excessive tearing

Excessive eye tearing, or epiphora, is characterized by an overproduction of tears or poor drainage. Excessive tearing can cause blurred vision, sore skin around the eyes, or lead to infection.

Loss of initial surgical results

The natural aging process can cause skin sagging, making eyelift surgery results fade, prompting the desire for a touch-up procedure.

What happens during a revision blepharoplasty consultation?

During your first meeting for revision blepharoplasty, it's crucial that you communicate openly about your concerns and expectations. This conversation helps us understand your desired outcomes from the corrective eyelid procedure. The session thoroughly examines your eye region, facial skin, and the deeper tissues underneath. This exam gives our surgeons a planned approach that won't risk your eyes' health and stability. Additionally, a comprehensive overview of your past medical records will be necessary.

Following this comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Adeleh Yarmohammad will be able to craft a bespoke surgical plan to cater to your needs. The doctor will guide you through what you can realistically expect from the procedure, ensuring that your aspirations align with the achievable results.

To facilitate a well-informed discussion during this session, please provide a detailed account of your prior surgeries and copies of medical records, including photos taken before and after your initial blepharoplasty. This gives us a better understanding of your previous surgical outcomes and how to plan your revision surgery best.

Is revision blepharoplasty right for me?

It’s advisable to wait until your post-op swelling has entirely resolved, typically several months after your initial surgery, to see the final result before contemplating further surgery.

You must clearly understand what you hope to achieve with revisional surgery and receive appropriate advice on whether your objectives are feasible and if additional surgery is the best option for reaching your goals.

Choosing to undergo a revision of eyelid surgery is an important and highly personal decision. Opting for a secondary procedure demands careful consideration and a thoughtful approach.

The first and most important step in considering revision eyelid surgery is consulting with a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon with extensive experience in revision eyelid procedures, like Dr. Adeleh Yarmohammad He is an oculoplastic surgeon that is board certified in ophthalmology with additional sub-specialty training in eyelids, eyebrows, forehead, and midface cosmetic surgery.

What’s the difference between oculofacial plastic surgery and general plastic surgery? 

Oculoplastic surgeons are trained to correct not just the appearance of the eye but to do so while preserving or improving the eye’s function – something an ophthalmologist is best qualified to do.

On the other hand, general plastic surgery is a broader field that can involve cosmetic or reconstructive procedures anywhere on the body. This discipline provides a different specialized focus on the eyes and surrounding structures than oculofacial plastic surgery.

Your eyes are one of the most delicate structures in your body. That’s why, when looking for a Los Angeles area surgeon to correct the appearance or function of your eyelids and the structures surrounding your eyes, you want to seek an oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Adeleh.

As a trained ophthalmologist with a sub-specialty in oculoplastic surgery, Dr. Adeleh Yarmohammad will thoroughly examine your eyes, understand any underlying eye disease, and identify potential problems that might impact the surgical plan -- things that even a board-certified facial plastic surgeon is not trained to do.

Why Choose AGEI for your eyelid revision procedure? 

Assil Gaur Eye Institute has over three decades of experience treating functional eye problems affecting patients’ vision and eye health, performing cosmetic procedures, and doing revisions of surgeries performed elsewhere with unsatisfactory outcomes, including canthoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, upper blepharoplasty, and other reconstructive surgeries. 

Among the conditions we treat are excess eyelid skin or fat, drooping eyelids, wrinkles around the eyes, eyelid reconstruction after tumor removal or eye injuries, excessive tearing, revising prior unsatisfactory cosmetic eyelid surgeries, and abnormally turned in (entropion) or turned out (ectropion) lid margins.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with us in our Beverly Hills office to discuss your concerns about the appearance or function of your eyelids and to learn what treatments might be right for you, please call 866-945-2745 or click here to request an appointment online.

 

 

Eyelid revision surgery FAQs

Will fat grafting be needed during my eyelid revision surgery? 

In certain situations, a shortage of skin or other tissues due to the previous eyelid surgery, grafts may be needed to correct the problem.

What is ptosis repair eye surgery? 

Ptosis correction surgery aims to address the drooping of the upper eyelid by shortening or resectioning the levator muscle. The levator muscle is responsible for elevating the upper eyelid, and by adjusting its length or resecting a portion of it, the surgeon can help restore a more natural and symmetrical eyelid position.

What is eyelid retraction?

Eyelid retraction is when the upper eyelid, lower lid, or both are abnormally high or low, exposing an unusual amount of the eyeball. It can lead to a wide-eyed stare and symptoms of various conditions.

What happens during your post-operative recovery from eyelid revision surgery?

Following your eyelid revision surgery, a procedure also known as secondary blepharoplasty, the immediate post-operative period will involve a few key steps to promote proper healing and comfort. 

 

Immediately after the procedure, your sight may be blurred due to an antibiotic ointment we apply. This ointment helps to keep your eyes moist and prevent infections. Coupled with some prescribed eye drops, it must be used multiple times a day for a duration set forth by your surgeon.

 

To alleviate any discomfort, over-the-counter analgesics may be utilized. Keeping your eyes dry for the initial 48 hours after surgery is essential. Subsequently, you can cleanse the eye area with mild soap and water, patting it dry gently not to disrupt the healing process.

 

Depending on the specific surgical approach of Dr. Adeleh, we may use either dissolvable sutures that disappear over time or removable ones which require removal after about five to ten days. Your surgical plan, including details about your post-operative care, will be explained thoroughly to you before and after your operation.

 

Since secondary blepharoplasty is outpatient, you can leave our surgery center on the same day. Remember that you must have some to transport you home. You will not be allowed to take yourself home, which is unsafe. But our patients almost always feel well enough to move about by the evening of their surgery or the following morning.

 

Postoperative swelling, bruising, and puffiness are expected reactions, lasting anywhere from one to four weeks, depending on the procedure specifics and individual patient characteristics. Applying cold compresses to the area and maintaining an elevated sleeping position can assist in reducing swelling. If crusts or scabs form, resist the urge to remove them; they'll shed naturally.

 

In the first week following surgery, you should avoid strenuous activities, like vigorous workouts or heavy lifting. Nevertheless, we encourage light, steady walking to maintain mobility and facilitate a smoother return to daily activities.

 

After two weeks, it's typically safe to resume wearing makeup and contact lenses. We also recommend wearing sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from UV exposure during the healing phase.

Is eyelid revision surgery safe?

Blepharoplasty, whether it is your first surgery or you, unfortunately, require an eyelid revision surgery, is a very complex and meticulous procedure that requires precision and expertise for a successful outcome. We can assure you it is when executed by an expert oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Adeleh. 

 

We must stress enough that only some cosmetic eyelid surgeons are ophthalmologists and possess the necessary skills and training to execute this complex operation. The required precision makes it a challenging process, especially if corrections or adjustments need to be made.

 

It is crucial, therefore, to entrust your eyelid revision surgery to a seasoned and highly competent professional like Dr. Adeleh. Her extensive training and experience ensure you will receive the desired results. She has a proven track record of success in this field, making her a safe and reliable choice for your surgery.

How much time should I take off from work after eyelid revision surgery?

Patients typically need between 14-21 days off from work to recover, depending on the severity of their case. Depending on the nature of their job, most people will be okay to work from home using a laptop 48 hours after surgery.

What happens if you bend over after eyelid surgery?

Also, avoid everyday activities such as lifting heavy items, bending over, or lying flat, which can increase blood flow to your eyes or pressure on your healing lids.

How long do you have to sleep sitting up after eyelid surgery?

Resting with your head elevated in a recliner or with at least two pillows for the first 48 hours after surgery would be best.

How long does tightness last after eyelid surgery?

This may feel strange or frightening initially, but rest assured that this is an average postoperative effect that should subside with time. Most patients report tightness after eyelid surgery to last about two weeks, though numbness or a change in eyelid sensation may last longer.

What is the fastest way to recover from upper eyelid surgery?

Tips for Rapid Recovery

 

1. Use an ice pack to reduce swelling. Before your surgery, ensure you have comfortable ice packs and plenty of gauze for your recovery. 
2. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyelids. 
3. Get more sleep. 
4. Avoid physical exertion. 
5. Steer clear of smoking and alcohol.