Lid retraction repair is the surgical procedure that restores the upper or lower eyelid into their proper positions if they have retracted or fallen back from eye in an unnatural, uncomfortable or unsightly position.
Lid retraction repair surgery is performed to return the lower eyelid to its natural position “hugging” the eyeball and returning the natural “almond” shape of the eye.
Retractions of the eyelids can occur with age due to stretching of the tissues of the eyelid, which is then pulled down by the weight of the cheek. It can also be due to previous surgery of the lower eyelid in which scar tissue pulls the lid down or because an excessive amount of skin was excised from the front of the lower eyelid. The retracted lower lid can be observed as “rounding” of the eye and can lead to chronic eye conditions including dry eyes, excessive tearing, redness, burning and blurred vision. This condition is called exposure keratoconjunctivitis.
In extreme cases of lower eyelid retraction, one may not be able to close the eyelids or have difficulty doing so. When the eyelids cannot close, the surface of the eye is more likely to dry out which can cause discomfort, impair vision and increase the risk of eye infections.
Restoration of the eyelid to its natural position often involves a small incision made at the outer corner of the eyelid and a combination of different techniques including releasing the tendons of the upper eyelid, tightening of the outer corner of the lids, raising lower lid and cheek tissues and possibly placing skin or grafts from the mouth in and around the eyelid to replace missing tissue if needed.
Additionally, the cheek can be raised and sutured superiorly while tightening the lower eyelid with a canthoplasty. The elevated cheek is thus able to support the elevated eyelid in a higher position to better protect the eye and not weigh down the lid. This also restores a more natural “almond” shape to the eye.
Restoration of the eyelid to its natural position often involves a small incision made at the outer corner of the eyelid and a combination of different techniques including releasing the tendons of the upper eyelid, tightening of the outer corner of the lids, raising lower lid and cheek tissues and possibly placing skin or cartilage grafts in and around the eyelid to replace missing tissue if needed.
Additionally, the cheek can be raised and sutured superiorly while tightening the lower eyelid with a canthoplasty. The elevated cheek is thus able to support the elevated eyelid in a higher position to better protect the eye and not weigh down the lid. This also restores a more natural “almond” shape to the eye.
It is common for patients to develop bruising and swelling the majority of the swelling goes away in two to three weeks, but some swelling can last for a longer period of time as every patient heals at different rates depending on age and skin type. Dr. Marshak will personally see you frequently in the post-operative period to monitor your healing and ensure you are on course.
A properly executed lid retraction repair will restore the eyelids back to their normal more natural position in an attractive more comfortable position. The goal of lid retraction repair is not only to create a more aesthetically pleasing appearance but to restore function of the eyelids, reduce the risk of eye infections and diminish dryness.
If you have lids that do not properly and effectively cover your eye, contact Dr. Marshak in Palm Desert today for a consultation!
Tag: Eyelid Procedures
