Restore comfort, protect your vision, and enhance your eye appearance with expert treatment for eyelid retraction. Whether caused by thyroid eye disease, previous eyelid surgery, trauma, or natural anatomy, eyelid retraction can lead to dryness, irritation, and scleral show. As a dual-fellowship trained oculofacial plastic surgeon, Dr. David Isaacs offers advanced surgical and non-surgical solutions to correct eyelid retraction and help you look and feel your best.
Restore Balance to Your Upper
and Lower Eyelids
Eyelid retraction occurs when either the upper or lower eyelid is positioned abnormally relative to the eye, exposing more of the eyeball than usual. Normally, the upper eyelid sits just below the upper edge of the cornea, and the lower eyelid rests at the lower border. When retracted, the eyelid sits either too high or too low, resulting in cosmetic and functional issues. Common causes of eyelid retraction include thyroid eye disease (Graves’ disease), prior eyelid surgery, trauma, congenital anatomy, and prominent eyes.
Eyelid retraction surgery aims to restore the eyelid to its natural position, improving both appearance and eye protection. Dr. Isaacs uses highly specialized techniques tailored to your anatomy and underlying cause. For upper eyelid retraction, he may perform levator or Müller’s muscle recession through hidden incisions. For lower eyelid retraction, treatment may involve retractor recession, midface lift, orbital rim implants, or canthoplasty. The goal is always to achieve a natural, symmetrical result with long-term relief of symptoms.
Eyelid Retraction Treats:
- Excessive exposure of the white part of the eye (scleral show)
- Dryness, irritation, or a burning sensation in the eyes
- Tearing and sensitivity to wind or light
- A wide-eyed or rounded eye appearance
- Discomfort caused by eyelid pulling or tightness
- Vision problems related to corneal exposure
- Eye strain or fatigue from poor eyelid coverage
Your Private Consultation
With Dr. Isaacs
During your 90-minute private consultation with Dr. Isaacs, you’ll receive his undivided attention as he thoroughly examines your eyelid position, eye surface health, and facial anatomy. He’ll carefully review your medical and surgical history, explain the underlying cause of your eyelid retraction, and answer your questions. Using advanced imaging and measurements, Dr. Isaacs will design a fully personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.
Advantages of Eyelid Retraction Surgery:
- Restores the eyelid to its proper anatomical position
- Reduces scleral show for a more natural eye appearance
- Improves eye comfort by reducing dryness and irritation
- Protects the cornea from long-term exposure damage
- Enhances facial symmetry and restores almond-shaped eyes
- Corrects issues caused by prior eyelid or facial surgery
Dr. Isaacs’ Approach to Upper Eyelid
Retraction Correction
Dr. Isaacs takes a highly individualized approach to eyelid retraction surgery. He begins by identifying the root cause of your retraction, whether it is thyroid eye disease, prior surgery, or a structural anomaly, and tailors the plan accordingly.
His techniques emphasize hidden incisions and tissue preservation to ensure functional improvement and natural-looking aesthetic results.
Upper Eyelid Retraction Surgery
For upper eyelid retraction, Dr. Isaacs performs a levator muscle recession and/or Müller’s muscle recession to relax the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid. Both methods are performed from the inside of the eyelid, leaving no visible scars. This approach is ideal for patients affected by thyroid eye disease or those who have undergone surgeries that have caused the upper lid to retract. By precisely adjusting the tension of the eyelid retractors, Dr. Isaacs reduces scleral show and eliminates the wide-eyed or “staring” appearance.
Lower Eyelid Retraction Surgery
Lower eyelid retraction correction often requires a multi-layered approach depending on the cause. Dr. Isaacs may begin with a lower eyelid retractor recession to release the muscle pulling the eyelid downward. To further support and elevate the eyelid, he may perform a midface lift, place orbital rim implants to enhance bony support, or use canthoplasty to tighten and reposition the lateral canthus. In cases involving thyroid eye disease or prominent eyes, orbital decompression can be performed to move the globe back into the socket.
Eyelid Retraction FAQs
Is Eyelid Retraction Always Treated With Surgery?
Not always. If your symptoms are mild or if the underlying cause is still active (as with thyroid eye disease), Dr. Isaacs may begin with non-surgical options such as lubricating drops or gels. Surgery is recommended when symptoms persist or affect vision or comfort.
Can Upper and Lower Eyelid Retraction Be Corrected at the Same Time?
Yes. If you’re experiencing both upper and lower eyelid retraction, Dr. Isaacs can often address them during the same surgical session. This comprehensive approach allows for better symmetry, fewer procedures, and a smoother recovery.
How Long is the Recovery From Eyelid Retraction Surgery?
Most patients experience swelling and bruising for 1 to 2 weeks. You’ll be advised to avoid strenuous activities during this period. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days, and the final results are usually seen within a few months.
Schedule Your Consultation
David Isaacs, MD, is a dual-fellowship trained oculofacial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, specializing in complex eyelid conditions, including upper and lower eyelid retraction. With dual fellowships from UCLA and a reputation for precision, he offers highly customized, minimally invasive solutions. During your private 90-minute consultation, Dr. Isaacs will take the time to understand your concerns and design a treatment plan just for you. Schedule your consultation to explore your options for eyelid retraction correction in Beverly Hills.
