Have you noticed that your eyes no longer open as completely as they once did? It’s not your imagination — the upper eyelids do become progressively droopier with age. Unfortunately, heavy eyelids not only age your face, but can also make you look perpetually tired.
Therefore, it is not surprising that sagging eyelids are one of the top cosmetic imperfections that patients over 35 discuss with Long Island plastic surgeon Dr. David Funt.
What Causes Eyelid Drooping?
Drooping upper eyelids (known as “hooding”) are a common side effect of aging. One reason this occurs is that the muscles in the eyelid become weaker over time. Consequently, it becomes more challenging to open the eyelids completely. Another reason is that skin loses its elasticity due to declining collagen production. Loose skin on the eyelid can weigh down the eyelid so it cannot open fully. The same is true of excess fat that may accumulate with age.
A smaller percentage of people have drooping eyelids from birth or after nerve damage. This condition is called ptosis.
Correcting Hooding with Surgery
For most patients, the best way for Dr. Funt to elevate the upper eyelids is with upper eyelid surgery (upper blepharoplasty). This surgery removes excess skin and fat on the upper eyelids so that they are not weighed down by extra tissue. At the same time, he carefully tightens the muscles so that they have the strength to open the eyelids more completely. Patients should be aware that upper blepharoplasty is a separate procedure from lower blepharoplasty, which is primarily concerned with hollows and skin laxity immediately below the eyes.
Some patients may be best suited for a brow lift to improve eyelid elevation. This is appropriate when a patient has excess skin or fat on the brow that pushes down on the eyelids. While brow lift’s primary goal is to minimize the lines on the forehead and between the brows, it can also have a positive effect on the upper eyelids.
One More Non-Invasive Solution
Patients who do not wish to turn to surgery at this point in their life can see cosmetic improvements with Botox. This botulinum toxin injection can achieve a lifting effect immediately above the eyelids. By elevating the loose skin, the eyelids can then open more completely. Precision is necessary to achieve the desired effect, which is why patients should seek care from an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Funt.
Schedule a Consultation
If the position of your eyelids ages your face in a way you do not like, Dr. Funt would be happy to discuss all your cosmetic options during a consultation. To meet with one of NYC’s top-rated plastic surgeons, please call 516-627-6100 (Roslyn) or 516-295-0404 (Woodmere).
