Our bodies go through visible transformations as we age. Surprisingly, some of these changes can also affect our facial features and even our vision. One such condition is droopy eyelids. It is not just another cosmetic concern. It’s a medical condition that can either develop gradually or appear suddenly due to aging, injury or some health issues.
Sadly, in many cases, it can interfere with eyesight as well. The good part is that there are different options to treat this, both surgical fixes and non-invasive methods. Continue to learn more about this condition.
Understanding Droopy Eyelids Meaning
Medically referred to as “ptosis”, it’s a condition where the upper eyelid sags downward more than normally and covers part of the eye and even blocks vision sometimes. Normally, the upper eyelid covers around 2 mm of the cornea and the lower one covers about 1 mm. But when this natural position dramatically changes, it causes droopy eyelids.
This condition can affect one or even both eyelids and the situation ranges from mild to severe. If not treated, droopy upper eyelids will cause eye fatigue, restricted vision and long-term complications that are hard to deal with.
What are the Droopy Eyelids Causes?
The droopy eyelids can be either present at birth or acquired later in life. Although they are more commonly seen in individuals over 65, they can develop at any age because of the following factors:
- Aging: When muscles around the eyelids get weaker with age, drooping happens.
- Eye trauma: If the person has met with an accident or has undergone surgery around the eye, eyelid muscles can be damaged.
- Eye tumors: If the growths are near or within the eye, there will be pressure and drooping.
- Congenital muscle defects: Some people are just born with underdeveloped levator muscles and have the droop.
- Thyroid issues: There may be fat accumulation or swelling near the eyes because of poor thyroid levels.
- Medication side effects: Certain drugs also have their side effects which cause ptosis.
- Genetics: If your family members have droopy eyelids, you are likely to inherit it as well.
Symptoms of Droopy Eyelids
Being able to identify droopy eyelids in the early stages can help prevent complications. You might realize sagging in one or both upper eyelids, as your eyes may feel heavy or tired.
In serious cases, vision might be blocked, and you might blink or rub your eyes more than usual. You may also find yourself tilting your head to see better, which is another sign. Eye strain and discomfort may increase, and you may also notice under-eye bags or puffiness. Initially, it may be subtle and only evident in photographs or when looking closely in a mirror. For a certain diagnosis, you need to consult a doctor.
Treatment of Droopy Eyelids
While there are options available, the treatment depends on the severity or the case, the cause and the age of the patient. If you’re looking for the best treatment for droopy eyelids, you can consider the following:
1. Non-Surgical Droopy Eyelids Fix
In younger people, at mild/early-stage cases, non-invasive treatments may also be quite helpful:
- Droopy eyelid exercises: These are focused on strengthening the surrounding muscles.
- Face yoga: Do some light facial muscle workouts because they support toning around the eyes.
- Botox injections: Sometimes, Botox can also help slightly lift the eyelids.
- Eye creams: Firming creams are not really a treatment but they may temporarily improve skin elasticity.
Note that these methods are not a permanent droopy eyelids cure; they can only delay further worsening or help improve appearance.
2. Surgical Treatment (Blepharoplasty)
If the case is moderate to severe, often a quick surgery under local anaesthesia is recommended and the patient can go back to normal life in a few days. This includes:
- Levator resection: The eyelid gets a lift by shortening the levator muscle.
- Frontalis suspension: For elevation, the eyelid is attached to the forehead muscle.
- Blepharoplasty: Extra fat and skin are removed from the eyelid to give it a better shape and position.
Post-Treatment Care
Proper post-op care is essential after surgery to ensure quick healing. It’s important to follow every guideline given by the doctor closely.
In the first phase after the surgery, you need to keep the treated area dry. You also need to avoid sun exposure by wearing sunglasses. Don’t skip the prescribed antibiotic eye drops, as they help prevent infection. Follow all aftercare instructions carefully, and attend your follow-up appointments so your recovery can be properly monitored. For a suitable treatment, you need to consult a surgeon.
What Happens if Droopy Eyelids are not Treated?
Ignoring droopy eyelids can worsen the situation. Go for a treatment once you realize a difference in your eye to avoid symptoms such as poor vision and reduced area of sight, chronic headaches from always tilting the head to see. Thankfully, droopy eyelids are fixable. If you notice signs of drooping, consult a specialist and treat it at the earliest.
