What Is Lower Eyelid Retraction?

Lower eyelid retraction occurs when the lower eyelid is pulled downward and no longer rests properly against the lower part of the eye.

Common signs include:

• Excessive scleral show (visible white below the iris)
• Round-looking eyes
• Lower eyelid asymmetry
• Eye dryness
• Eye irritation
• Tearing
• Difficulty fully closing the eyes
• Unnatural lower eyelid position

The condition may affect one or both eyes.

What Causes Lower Eyelid Retraction?

Previous Lower Blepharoplasty

One of the most common causes is previous lower eyelid surgery.

Excessive skin removal or postoperative scarring may pull the lower eyelid downward.

Aging

As tissues weaken with age:

• Lower eyelid support decreases
• Ligaments loosen
• Skin elasticity diminishes

These changes can contribute to eyelid descent.

Congenital Anatomy

Some patients naturally have:

• Weak lower eyelid support
• Negative vector anatomy
• Prominent eyes

which increase the risk of lower eyelid retraction.

Trauma or Injury

Injury involving the eyelid or orbital region may alter normal eyelid positioning.

Thyroid Eye Disease

Certain medical conditions affecting the orbit may contribute to lower eyelid retraction and abnormal eye exposure.

Symptoms of Lower Eyelid Retraction

Patients commonly report:

• Dry eyes
• Foreign body sensation
• Excessive tearing
• Eye redness
• Light sensitivity
• Fatigued eyes
• Cosmetic dissatisfaction

More severe cases may expose the ocular surface and cause chronic irritation.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a candidate if you have:

• Visible scleral show
• Low lower eyelid position
• Round eyes after surgery
• Eye discomfort
• Dry eye symptoms
• Lower eyelid asymmetry
• Previous lower eyelid surgery complications

A detailed examination is required to determine the underlying cause and appropriate correction strategy.

How Is Lower Eyelid Retraction Correction Performed?

Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the condition.

Scar Release

Patients with postoperative scarring may require:

• Internal scar release
• Tissue mobilization
• Reconstruction of lower eyelid support

Canthoplasty

Canthoplasty strengthens and repositions the outer corner of the eyelid.

Benefits include:

• Improved eyelid support
• Better eye shape
• Enhanced symmetry
• Reduced scleral show

Canthopexy

For milder cases, canthopexy may provide additional support without extensive reconstruction.

Spacer Grafting

When significant tissue shortage exists, spacer grafts may be used to:

• Lengthen the posterior eyelid
• Elevate the lower eyelid
• Restore normal positioning

Midface Support

Some patients benefit from midface lifting techniques that help support the lower eyelid from below.

Benefits of Lower Eyelid Retraction Correction

Improved Eye Comfort

Correcting eyelid position may reduce:

• Dryness
• Irritation
• Tearing
• Exposure symptoms

More Natural Eye Shape

The eyes often appear:

• Less rounded
• More balanced
• More youthful
• More symmetrical

Reduced Scleral Show

Restoring lower eyelid position minimizes excessive white space beneath the iris.

Better Facial Harmony

Improved lower eyelid support often enhances overall eye aesthetics.

Lower Eyelid Retraction Correction After Blepharoplasty

Many patients seek correction after previous lower blepharoplasty procedures.

Common concerns include:

• Rounded eyes
• Excessive scleral show
• Tight lower eyelids
• Difficulty closing the eyes
• Asymmetry

Revision surgery focuses on restoring normal anatomy while preserving a natural appearance.

Recovery After Lower Eyelid Retraction Correction

Days 1–3

• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tightness

Week 1

• Initial improvement
• Reduced swelling

Weeks 2–6

• Improved eyelid positioning
• Better symmetry

Months 1–6

• Tissue stabilization
• Scar maturation
• Final contour refinement

Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the correction.

Will the Results Look Natural?

Modern lower eyelid retraction correction focuses on:

• Restoring natural eyelid position
• Improving ocular function
• Preserving facial harmony
• Avoiding an overcorrected appearance

The goal is to create eyes that appear healthy, balanced, and naturally proportioned.

Why Choose 1mm Plastic Surgery?

Patients choose 1mm Plastic Surgery because of:

• Specialized eyelid surgery expertise
• Advanced reconstructive eyelid techniques
• Experience with revision lower blepharoplasty
• Customized treatment planning
• Natural aesthetic philosophy
• Functional and cosmetic focus
• International patient services
• Comprehensive postoperative care

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lower eyelid retraction?

Lower eyelid retraction occurs when the lower eyelid sits abnormally low and exposes excessive white space beneath the iris.

What causes lower eyelid retraction?

Common causes include previous lower blepharoplasty, aging, congenital anatomy, trauma, and thyroid-related eye conditions.

Can lower eyelid retraction cause dry eyes?

Yes. Improper eyelid positioning can increase ocular surface exposure and contribute to dryness and irritation.

What is scleral show?

Scleral show refers to visible white sclera beneath the iris due to a low lower eyelid position.

Can lower eyelid retraction be corrected after blepharoplasty?

Yes. Revision surgery is commonly performed to improve lower eyelid position following previous lower eyelid surgery.

What is canthoplasty?

Canthoplasty is a procedure that tightens and repositions the outer corner of the eyelid to improve support and eye shape.

What are spacer grafts?

Spacer grafts are supportive tissues used to lengthen and elevate the lower eyelid in more severe cases of retraction.

How long does recovery take?

Most swelling improves significantly within several weeks, while final healing and tissue stabilization continue over several months.

Will the results look natural?

Yes. Modern correction techniques focus on restoring normal eyelid anatomy and natural eye proportions.

Can international patients undergo lower eyelid retraction correction in Korea?

Yes. Many international patients travel to Gangnam, Seoul, Korea for specialized revision eyelid surgery and lower eyelid reconstruction.

ore balance and beauty to your eyes.