One Eye Appears Smaller than the Other
APR 20, 2023
Question:
One of my eyes looks smaller than the other but I think it's just sitting back more in the socket than the other. Are there any exercises or treatments to bring the eye forward?
Answer:
When most people notice a difference between the size of their eyes, they are actually noticing a lowering of the upper eyelid. This can be caused by a neurologic (nerve) issue, weakness of the muscle and/or its tendon, disinsertion of the tendon (common as we age), excess upper eyelid skin, or weakness and drooping of the forehead. Please see your ophthalmologist who can find out what's causing this appearance of differently sized eyes and recommend treatment if needed.
At the same time, your ophthalmologist can measure to see if the eye is truly sunken or just gives the appearance of being sunken. This can sometimes occur after an eye injury, weeks to months later or even with chronic sinus disease. After a Bells palsy, the appearance of a sunken eye can be noted due to the contraction (pulling back) of the eyelids when the palsy heals.
Finally, sometimes the opposite eye is bulging, making the other appear sunken. This may be a sign of Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), but can also be caused by masses or growths behind or next to the eye.
Please be sure to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with your ophthalmologist. They can determine what's causing your eye to appear sunken or bulging and whether treatment is needed.