What are the main complications of eyelid plastic surgery?

The main complications related to eyelid plastic surgery are poor scarring, eyelid retraction and the inability to close the eyes (lagophthalmos). Unsightly scars are not that common in eyelid plastic surgery, unless the incisions were poorly planned, or the patient does not follow postoperative instructions. Therefore, it is very important that the patient take care of the incisions by applying anti-inflammatory ointment as indicated by the doctor and that he or she wear sunglasses to protect them from the sun. Patients of Asian or African descent are more at risk of experiencing inflammation and pigmentation of the incisions. Eyelid retraction and lagophthalmos are infrequent but severe complications. These are discussed in more detail in the section for corrective eyelid surgery.