Botched Double Eyelid Surgery? Know why it happens and what can be done to fix it

Not everyone is born with double eyelids, especially when you are of East Asian descent. It is because of this reason that double eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, has become a popular aesthetic procedure among countries in East Asia and also in Singapore. 

While double eyelid surgery results have left many patients satisfied with their improved set of peepers, there are those whose envisioned dreams have been shattered due to mistakes made during the process. This article will help people who are interested in undergoing the procedure to know about the usual blunders that can be encountered during a double eyelid surgery and provide possible solutions to those who are left unsatisfied with their results. 

Signs of a botched double eyelid surgery

There are many telltale signs of a botched double eyelid surgery, including:

  • Asymmetry: Your eyes’ overall shape are mismatched.
  • Discomfort or pain: Experiencing chronic discomfort or pain around your eyes may indicate underlying issues related to your double eyelid surgery. Immediately consult with your surgeon.
  • Noticeable scarring: Incisions that were not placed or done accurately can lead to visible scars.
  • Severe bruising or swelling: Bruising or swelling may occur following a double eyelid surgery, but this should subside over a few days. Extended inflammation on the operated site may be a complication from the surgery.
  • Uneven creases: This occurs when one eyelid is either higher or lower than the other.

Common mistakes leading to botched double eyelid surgery results

1. Choosing an Inexperienced Surgeon

The first step to your journey of achieving your double eyelid dream is to choose the 

right surgeon for your procedure. If you encounter the mistake of going for a surgeon 

that lacks the knowledge, skill, and experience in performing a double eyelid surgery, 

then expect to see results that may be substandard. Always remember to choose an 

experienced and a board certified surgeon to do your double eyelid procedure. 

2. Poor pre-consultation

Your initial consultation with your chosen surgeon is critical as it paves the way for a 

successful double eyelid surgery outcome. A pre-consultation should be done thoroughly 

to identify your anatomy, desired results, needs, and preferences. Should a surgeon 

miss out on any important aspect relating to anatomy assessment of the eyelids or 

realistic expectations, then your surgery’s results may turn out to be disappointing.

3. Failing to acknowledge unique eyelid anatomy

The eyelid anatomy varies between individuals. This uniqueness should not be 

overlooked by your chosen surgeon as doing so can lead to a botched double eyelid 

surgery. For example, an eyelid fold may look unnatural when your surgeon fails to 

consider some defining characteristics of your eyelid and eyes, such as the skin’s 

thickness, the amount of fats present in the eyelid, and the overall shape of your eyes.

4. Ignoring realistic expectations

Anything can be achieved through double eyelid surgery, but not all results can look 

pleasant. That is why it is important for a surgeon to set realistic expectations with their 

patients during the initial consultation. An experienced surgeon should be able to guide their patients on how to make the right decisions and arrive at a realistic expectation. 

5. Improper surgical method

What method is used during the double eyelid surgery can make or break the outcome 

of your procedure. For instance, if the surgeon miscalculates the right placement of the 

crease in the eyelid, the effect may not complement the eye’s natural shape, which leads 

to an unnatural look that can affect not only your eyes’ appearance, but also the overall 

harmony and balance of the face.

6. Overlooking post-surgical care

Taking care of your eyelids after a double eyelid surgery is just as important as the 

procedure itself. If you fail to follow the instructions provided by your surgeon, such as 

cleaning the treatment area, going to follow-up consultations or not doing strenuous 

physical activities, then your results may encounter complications. Neglecting the 

aftercare guidance for your eyelids can expose them to infections, swelling, and scar 

formations.

Suggestions on how to fix a double eyelid surgery

Dealing with unsatisfactory results following your double eyelid surgery can be disheartening and frustrating, but it doesn’t mean that it cannot be fixed. Here are steps that you could take to reclaim your dream double eyelid crease:

  • Go for a second opinion – Before anything else, find another qualified surgeon and seek a second opinion. Undergoing a second opinion can help you understand your condition better as your chosen expert can assess your eyelids’ case. They can recommend further treatments or possible procedures that can improve the appearance of your double eyelid crease.
  • Non-surgical alternatives – There are minimally invasive or non-surgical options can be done to correct the look of your botched eyelids, such as:
  • Botox – By relaxing specific muscles, the right amount of botox injection can minimise eyelid asymmetry.
  • Dermal fillers – Hollow or unevenness in the eyelids or around the eyes as a result of a botched double eyelid surgery can be corrected with the use of dermal fillers.  
  • Revision surgery – For more complicated situations, another double eyelid surgery may be suggested by your surgeon after assessing the results of your previous treatment. By thoroughly evaluating your condition, they can develop a better and customised treatment on how to repair your double eyelids. Planning for your revision surgery should take the following into consideration: 
  • Technique: The right revision technique to apply during your surgery will be determined based on the various issues needing correction. 
  • Timing: Your revision surgery cannot happen right after your botched double eyelid surgery. It is important that you heal and recover from your initial surgery before undergoing another one. In general, it is recommended that at least six to twelve months should come to pass before scheduling your revision surgery. 

Final words

Double eyelid surgery is certainly a life-changing procedure as it alters the appearance of your eyes. Not all results of a double eyelid surgery can be considered a success, especially when individuals are left unsatisfied after seeing the outcome of their procedure. If you have had double eyelid surgery and are not happy with the results, there is still a way to correct them. Talk to our experienced and highly skilled surgeon at Artisan to know what approach and treatments are possible to help you achieve realistic expectations and your desired results.