Eyelid Revision Surgery

Our eyelids have multiple functions necessary to maintain comfortable and healthy eyes and good vision. Eyelids have characteristics that are related to racial background but also vary from person to person. It is important to understand the aesthetical relation of a person’s eyelids and face to ensure this harmony is not altered but rather enhanced.

Eyelids have seven layers each with its own function. When operating on the eyelid it is critical to understand the role of each layer as well as being familiar with the function and protective mechanisms of the eye. Having trained as an eye surgeon prior to training as an ocular plastic surgeon, Dr Wilcsek has an intimate understanding of this interaction.

A significant portion of Dr Wilcsek’s practice involves surgery in patients who have had prior trauma or eyelid surgery. Re-do surgery is always more challenging and must be approached with careful consideration. Some patients may have had skin cancers removed that have either recurred or which were not fully excised at the initial procedure.

Other patients may have had surgery of the eyelids or surrounding areas that has resulted in an unsatisfactory change in the position or contour of the eyelids.

Who is suitable for eyelid revision surgery?

Anyone who has undergone prior surgery or sustained eyelid trauma, who is unhappy with the outcome either aesthetically or because of symptoms related to poor lid position can be assessed. Dr Wilcsek will examine you and give possible treatment options that he feels would be beneficial.

What are the symptoms?

Prior surgery or trauma can lead to multiple problems including asymmetry of eyelid height or contour, malposition of the eyelid (turning inwards “entropion”, or drooping outwards “ectropion”) or an inability to close one’s eye. These problems can lead to irritation of the eye, tearing, visual disruption, mucus discharge or potentially scarring of the cornea and loss of vision.

What does the treatment involve?

The surgery required will vary for each patient. Dr Wilcsek will go through the surgical plan with you after assessing your eyelids. Often in revision surgery the surgical plan is modified at the time of surgery depending on the distribution and severity of scarring found at the time of revision surgery.

How will I look immediately after surgery?

The most obvious bruising and swelling should settle over a week. Often the lid needs tightening as part of the procedure and in some patients skin grafts or flaps (neighbouring tissue is rotated into the area of tissue loss) are used. In these cases the thickness and contour of the lid may take weeks to months to settle.

What is the recovery time?

Most patients will take 3 – 5 days off work. Physical activity in the first week should be minimal and then building up to a normal level over the following two weeks.

What are the risks?

Any surgery carries risks, and revision surgery unfortunately carries an increased risk of recurrent scarring. This is case specific and Dr Wilcsek will discuss this fully at the time of your consultation.

Please contact us to arrange an appointment

The Chatswood Eye Specialists Clinic has been servicing the community of Chatswood for over 35 years.  In 2016 we moved to our brand new clinic in the Chatswood Private Hospital building on Albert Avenue.  This new and exciting consulting suite features the latest ophthalmology equipment and technology.  Our Eye Specialists are leaders in their field and our highly trained Orthoptists are on hand to take you through any tests that may be required during your visit.  Please feel free to call one of the friendly reception staff if you would like to enquire about any of our services.

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