For many people, the appearance of the eyes plays a significant role in their facial aesthetics. One concern that can impact facial harmony is scleral show, the visibility of the white part of the eye (the sclera) above the upper eyelid when smiling. While a small amount of scleral exposure is natural, an excessive show of sclera can create an appearance that some may find less attractive or feel self-conscious about. Fortunately, scleral show surgery offers a solution to this cosmetic issue, enhancing the natural beauty of the eyes and providing lasting results. In this article, we’ll explore what scleral show surgery involves, how it’s performed, the benefits, and things to consider before undergoing the procedure.
What is Scleral Show?
Scleral show refers to the visible white part scleral show of the eye that is exposed above the upper eyelid when smiling or making facial expressions. While some level of scleral exposure is completely normal, excessive scleral show can cause an individual to appear overly “wide-eyed” or give a perpetually surprised look. This condition can occur due to various factors:
- Aging: Over time, the skin and muscles around the eyes may weaken or stretch, leading to drooping eyelids and more noticeable scleral show.
- Anatomy: Some people naturally have a higher-positioned eyelid or larger eyes, making the sclera more visible.
- Excessive smiling: Some individuals may smile in a way that causes a disproportionate amount of sclera to be exposed, which may be perceived as aesthetically unpleasing.
While scleral show doesn’t pose any medical risks, it can impact an individual’s confidence or facial harmony, which is why many seek surgical solutions to correct it.
What is Scleral Show Surgery?
Scleral show surgery, also known as an upper eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at reducing the visibility of the sclera above the upper eyelid. This surgery works to tighten and reposition the upper eyelid, restoring a more balanced and natural appearance. It is typically performed by oculoplastic surgeons or plastic surgeons with expertise in eyelid procedures.
The goal of the surgery is not only to reduce scleral show but also to enhance the overall aesthetics of the eye area by rejuvenating the upper eyelids. The surgery can be customized depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s unique needs.
How is Scleral Show Surgery Performed?
The specific techniques used in scleral show surgery can vary, but the most common procedures include:
1. Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)
Upper blepharoplasty is the most popular surgical option for addressing scleral show. This procedure involves removing excess skin, fat, or muscle tissue from the upper eyelid. By tightening the skin and repositioning the underlying tissue, the surgeon can lower the position of the upper eyelid, reducing the visibility of the sclera.
In some cases, if the eyelid is sagging due to aging, the procedure may also involve the removal of fatty deposits or excess skin to restore a more youthful contour.
2. Levator Muscle Tightening
For individuals whose excessive scleral show is caused by weak or stretched eyelid muscles, the surgeon may perform levator muscle tightening. The levator muscle is responsible for lifting the eyelid, and by repositioning or tightening it, the surgeon can correct the eyelid’s position, reducing the scleral show and giving the eyes a more natural look.
3. Canthoplasty (Eyelid Corner Surgery)
If the problem lies in the outer corners of the eyelids, a canthoplasty may be performed. This procedure tightens the outer corner of the eyelid and may be used in conjunction with other eyelid surgeries to achieve the desired result.
4. Fat Grafting or Dermal Fillers
In some cases, surgeons may use fat grafting or inject dermal fillers into the upper eyelid to add volume and reduce the visibility of the sclera. This can help create a smoother, more natural contour for the eyelid area.
Benefits of Scleral Show Surgery
- Improved Facial Aesthetics: The primary benefit of scleral show surgery is an enhanced facial appearance. By restoring the natural contours of the upper eyelids, the procedure creates a more harmonious look and reduces the excessive exposure of the sclera when smiling.
- Boost in Confidence: Many people who feel self-conscious about their appearance due to excessive scleral show report a significant improvement in their self-esteem after surgery. A more balanced and youthful eye appearance can enhance overall confidence.
- Youthful, Rested Look: Scleral show surgery can provide a more rested and rejuvenated appearance, especially for older patients whose eyelids may have begun to sag due to aging.
- Long-Lasting Results: Once the surgery is complete, the results can be long-lasting, with most patients enjoying their new, more youthful appearance for many years.
- Minimal Scarring: Since the incisions are typically made in the natural folds of the eyelid, scarring is usually minimal and inconspicuous.
Risks and Considerations
Like all surgeries, scleral show surgery carries some risks. These include:
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the incision sites, though this can typically be managed with proper care and antibiotics.
- Scarring: While scars are generally hidden in the natural folds of the eyelid, there is always a small chance of visible scarring, especially if healing complications arise.
- Asymmetry: Some patients may experience minor asymmetry between the eyelids, though this can often be corrected with a follow-up procedure.
- Dry Eyes: Some patients may experience dryness or discomfort in the eyes following surgery, but this is usually temporary and can be managed with lubricating eye drops.
- Over-correction: In rare cases, over-tightening the eyelids can result in an unnatural appearance. If this occurs, a revision procedure may be necessary.