How to Fix Droopy Eyelids Surgically

Droopy eyelids result from weak muscles in the eyelid region. A condition that affects vision and appearance, droopy eyelids can worsen as you age. Learn how to fix droopy eyelids surgically to regain full vision and a healthy appearance.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Know that there are two ways to classify droopy eyelids based on the cause of the condition. Dermatochalasis is when extra skin on the eyelids progressively worsens as you age. Ptosis (pronounced with the "p" silent) occurs when the entire eyelid region is droopy and covers a large portion of the eye. A person can be born with droopy eyelids or it can be a condition that occurs as you age.
2. Choose an ophthalmologist (an eye specialist and surgeon) who is covered under your insurance. The ophthalmologist can examine your droopy eyelids to diagnose the cause and determine the best course of surgical treatment for your unique case.
3. Expect an outpatient procedure called blepharoplasty to be performed to fix your droopy eyelids surgically. Under local anesthesia (unless your ophthalmologist determines that you should undergo the procedure under general anesthesia) a laser or scalpel is used to create incisions in the creases of the eyelids. The surgeon removes excess skin and tissue and then sutures the skin together. The process takes 1 to 3 hours to complete and mild pain may be experienced.
4. Follow the care instructions given to you by your surgeon. Expect swelling in the eyelid area and use ice packs to help keep the swelling down. Pain medicine may be prescribed to help you to cope with the discomfort.