Dr. Amy Kulak is a board-certified Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon and ophthalmologist. She specializes in reconstructive eye surgery, tearing disorders, and Ophthalmology. Her training allows her to understand the importance of the eyelids as well as the upper face when performing cosmetic procedures. The offices are located in Fernandina Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach, and Jacksonville, Florida, but she sees patients from all over North East Florida.
When the lower eyelid descends below the normal position and shows the eye’s white part, this is called eyelid retraction. This can be because of aging, a complication from cosmetic surgery, or being born with this condition. Patients can experience dryness of the eye, irritation, excess tearing, redness, discomfort, and blurry vision. The shape of the eye can change and be distorted, causing the patient to become unhappy with their appearance.
To correct the condition, a retraction involves lowering of the upper eyelid or raising of the bottom eyelid, depending on the patient’s specific problem. Skin or tissue grafting could be necessary, depending on the severity of the condition.
To elevate the lower eyelid, a graft is placed on the inside of the lid so the higher eyelid is higher on the eye and no white is showing. This can also change the shape of the eye to a more almond shape instead of round.
This surgery is more complex due to scarring and distortion but is one of the most common eyelid surgeries performed on patients. This procedure is used to correct or improve any complications that may have arisen from previous cosmetic surgery.
It is always important to choose the surgery option that is the least invasive for your eye issues. The eyelid tissues are fragile, and preserving the integrity of the eyelids can be difficult if you have the wrong doctor. Make sure you discuss your cosmetic procedure options with your doctor in their entirety and decide on a unique individualized treatment plan together.
When you have eyelid retraction repair or revision surgery, you can expect to go home the day of the surgery. There is usually minimal pain, and patients can go back to normal activities fairly quickly. A patch may be worn for 1-2 days following the procedure, and heavy lifting should be avoided for 1-2 weeks.
You could experience some mild discomfort that can be controlled with oral medication. Swelling and bruising will improve over a few days, and by two weeks should barely be noticeable. Healing times and side effects can vary by individuals. Sutures are removed on the post-op visit about 7-10 days after surgery, and it is recommended to stay away from contacts and eye makeup until two weeks after surgery.
Dr. Amy Kulak is happy to serve patients in her offices throughout North East Florida. If you are looking into getting any cosmetic surgeries, including eyelid retraction repair and revision, contact us today at (904) 775-5275 or info@kulakeye.com for an appointment.