Droopy eyelids are not just a cosmetic concern. While it can be bothersome aesthetically, it also causes functional issues, impeding people’s quality of life.
If you're wondering whether you should consider treatment for droopy eyelids, read on as we discuss signs indicating that you may need medical intervention.
Ptosis is the sagging of one or both upper eyelids, also known as droopy eyelids. This condition can develop due to the weakening of the muscles that lift the eyelid, nerve damage, or the natural ageing process. Sometimes, ptosis is congenital, meaning it is present at birth. Other causes include trauma, prolonged use of contact lenses, or underlying medical conditions such as myasthenia gravis.
Ptosis can be mild or severe. Mild cases may be hardly noticeable, while severe cases can obstruct vision or cause other complications. Identifying the following signs can help you determine whether droopy eyelid surgery is right for you.
One of the most common functional issues associated with droopy eyelids is obstructed vision. When the upper eyelid sags too much, it can cover part of your eye, limiting your field of view. Limited vision can make daily tasks like reading, driving, or working with a computer more challenging.
If you are tilting your head back or raising your eyebrows frequently to see clearly, it may be a sign that your droopy eyelids are interfering with your vision. Surgery to lift the eyelids can restore the full field of vision and improve your overall quality of life.
Droopy eyelids can also blur vision. Blurred vision happens when the sagging lid disrupts the normal alignment of the eye, making it difficult to focus. The condition may come and go or worsen depending on its severity.
If you're experiencing persistent blurry vision despite corrective lenses, it's worth consulting a specialist to see if droopy eyelids might be the underlying cause.
Do you frequently feel tension or discomfort in your forehead or brows? It could be a sign of overcompensation from droopy eyelids. Many subconsciously use their forehead muscles to lift their eyelids and improve their vision. Over time, this can give rise to strain, headaches, and even chronic pain.
If you're noticing persistent discomfort in your upper face, treatment for droopy eyelids may alleviate the issue by reducing the need for extra muscle engagement.
Eye fatigue is another common symptom of ptosis. You might feel your eyes are working harder than usual, especially during tasks that require focus, like reading or using a computer. The fatigue can manifest as a heavy feeling in the eyelids, difficulty keeping your eyes open, or a general sense of tiredness even after adequate rest.
Treating droopy eyelids can reduce this strain, making your eyes feel more comfortable and energised throughout the day.
Ptosis often affects one eye more than the other, resulting in noticeable asymmetry in your appearance. While this might seem purely cosmetic, asymmetry can also have functional implications, such as uneven vision or additional strain on one side of your face.
If you're self-conscious about the asymmetry or if it's contributing to other symptoms, an eyelid lift can help create a more balanced look and restore symmetry.
Ptosis is a progressive condition in many cases. What starts as a mild sagging can worsen over time, blocking vision and causing discomfort. If your eyelids are gradually drooping, it's a good idea to seek medical advice sooner rather than later.
Early intervention can prevent it from progressing and ensure that you address the problem before it significantly impacts your daily life.
Droopy eyelid surgery, also known as ptosis repair, is a procedure designed to correct sagging eyelids. The levator muscle which lifts the eyelid, may be tightened or reattached to restore proper functionality. If excess skin, fat, or muscle contributes to the droop, these tissues are carefully removed or repositioned to improve the eyelid's function and appearance.
The plastic surgeon then reshapes the eyelid to ensure a natural and symmetrical look before closing the incisions with fine sutures to promote healing and minimise scarring. This approach addresses aesthetic and functional concerns, improving vision and rejuvenating appearance.
Droopy eyelids can affect your appearance and quality of life when they interfere with vision or cause discomfort. Understanding the signs of ptosis and seeking timely treatment can alleviate these challenges.
If you suspect you might benefit from droopy eyelid treatment, it's essential to consult a qualified specialist. Polaris Plastic Surgery specialises in diagnosing and treating ptosis to help patients in Singapore regain functionality and confidence. Our plastic surgeons will assess the severity of your condition and discuss the best treatment for you.
Book an appointment today.