Heaviness in your upper eyelid develops over time. It may not seem like a big deal at first. However, over time, it can cause functional and aesthetic issues. Functional issues caused by droopy eyelids can impact your vision. You may overcompensate by bending your head back or raising your eyebrows. This can cause neck pain and headaches. In addition to the functional issues, droopy eyelids can also impact your appearance. They can make you look tired, angry, and much older than you are. You may wonder, can droopy eyelids get worse over time if left untreated? Below you will find helpful information about what to do if you have eyelid sagging.
Can Droopy Eyelids Get Worse Over Time If Left Untreated?
Droopy eyelids are referred to medically as ptosis. It is a condition where the upper eyelid droops lower than it should. The drooping can range from minor to major, which can affect how much it impacts you. The most common cause of ptosis is age-related. As you get older, the levator muscle weakens. This is the muscle that is responsible for raising your upper eyelid. When it weakens, it can droop, impacting your function and aesthetics.
Your skin also changes with age. Starting in your 20s, collagen and elastin production declines. These are important proteins that keep your skin firm and youthful-looking. When the natural production decreases, you may notice skin sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles. This can affect the area around the eyes because the skin there is thin and delicate. Poor lifestyle habits can further accelerate the signs of aging. This includes smoking, excessive drinking, chronic stress, and poor sleep. An unhealthy lifestyle, a poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle are also harmful to your skin.
When left untreated, droopy eyelids do get worse over time. While changing your lifestyle habits can help, it cannot stop the natural aging process. Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin sagging continue over time. This can further affect your eyelids, making you look tired, angry, and much older than you are. Droopy eyelids can also cause several functional issues that impact your daily life. Effective treatment options are available to address droopy eyelids.
Complications Associated with Untreated Droopy Eyelids
Leaving ptosis untreated can lead to several unwanted consequences. This is beyond just cosmetic concerns. Consider the following if you notice the early signs of eyelid drooping.
Reduced Field of Vision
Vision issues are common among those with droopy eyelids. A droopy eyelid can block the upper field of vision. This can make it difficult to look upward or see objects above eye level. Many people experience eye strain, fatigue, and headaches from working harder to see. This can impact your quality of life and leave you feeling hopeless without treatment.
Astigmatism
Untreated ptosis can lead to astigmatism. Astigmatism occurs when the eyelid puts pressure on the front of the eye. It ultimately changes shape and can cause distorted vision. Many people report that their vision appears stretched or wavy. This is more commonly seen in pediatric ptosis. However, it can also be a concern in adults with significant drooping.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is common among those with severe ptosis. Untreated ptosis can lead to headaches and neck pain from compensatory postures. This can reduce your quality of life and cause daily frustration. Many patients do not connect these symptoms to their droopy eyelids. However, consulting with an ophthalmic plastic surgeon can help.
When to See an Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon
Knowing when to seek treatment is key. There are several indications that you should consult with a medical professional for an evaluation.
- One or both eyelids are drooping without improvement
- You squint or tilt your chin up to see objects above eye level
- Raising your eyebrows to see more clearly
- You get frequent headaches or neck tension that is unexplained
- Ptosis accompanied by other neurological symptoms
- Your upper eyelid blocks your vision
An ophthalmic plastic surgeon has specialized training in ophthalmology and in reconstructive eyelid surgery. They understand the unique complexity of the eye, eyelid, and the surrounding structures. They are uniquely qualified to evaluate and treat ptosis. This includes both the functional and aesthetic concerns.
Ptosis Surgery
The first step in moving forward with treatment for your droopy eyelids is a consultation. An ophthalmic plastic surgeon can evaluate your eyes and discuss your concerns. They will also evaluate your current health and medical history. From there, a customized treatment plan will be curated to your unique needs. The most effective treatment option for ptosis is eyelid surgery. It is a long-lasting solution to eyelid drooping. It can improve both the functional and aesthetic issues caused by sagging eyelids.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. Thai means that you get to go home the same day. Upper eyelid surgery is performed under local anesthesia with sedation. This ensures your comfort through the procedure. A small incision is made in the natural crease of the eyelid. Excess fat and sagging skin are removed. The elevator muscle is also tightened. This leaves the upper eyelid smoother and more youthful-looking. Once complete, the incision is closed. This results in minimal to no scarring if you care for your skin after surgery.
The recovery process is smooth and lasts about 7 to 10 days. Most people are back to their routine within two weeks at most. It is important to follow your surgeon’s post-surgical instructions. You may notice tightness, bruising, swelling, and pain after surgery. This is completely normal and should subside within a few days to a few weeks. It is essential to attend all of your follow-up appointments after surgery. This ensures optimal results and a smooth recovery process.
Top Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon
Droopy eyelids can cause functional and aesthetic issues. If you want to address the issues, contact the team at InFocus Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!