Sagging Eyelids - What Can Help Them?

Sagging eyelids, also known as droopy eyelids or hooded eyelids, are a common issue that can affect both appearance and daily quality of life. This condition occurs when the upper eyelid droops lower than normal, either partially or fully covering the iris. Sagging eyelids can give a tired or downcast appearance, even if the person is well-rested and in a good mood. Depending on the severity, it can be purely an aesthetic concern or significantly impair vision, reducing the functionality of the eye.

In cases of ptosis, the movement of the eyelid may be limited. This can make daily tasks such as reading or driving challenging. Some people also experience physical discomfort, like a heavy feeling on the eyelids or headaches due to constantly lifting their eyebrows for better vision. The problem may occur in one or both eyes, and its severity varies greatly. Although more common in older people, sagging eyelids can affect individuals of all ages, including children.

What Causes Sagging Eyelids?

There are many different reasons behind sagging eyelids. The causes and underlying mechanisms vary from person to person, and often several factors contribute to the problem.

• Aging is the most common reason for droopy eyelids. Over time, the skin of the eyelids thins and loses elasticity. Additionally, the muscles supporting the eyelids weaken, and the connective tissue stretches, causing the upper eyelid to droop. This natural process is part of aging, but its manifestation can vary individually.
• In some cases, droopy eyelids are caused by nerve issues or muscle dysfunction. Third-degree nerve damage or conditions like myasthenia gravis can prevent the normal functioning of the muscle that lifts the eyelid. Nerve damage can occur due to brain injury, tumors, or surgical complications.
• Congenital ptosis is a condition where a child is born with a droopy eyelid. This usually occurs because the levator muscle – responsible for lifting the upper eyelid – has not developed properly. Although the condition does not always affect vision, it may hinder normal eye development in children if left untreated.
• Trauma to the eye area, such as a blow or post-surgical complication, can lead to droopy eyelids. Recurrent eyelid inflammation or skin conditions can also weaken the supporting structures of the eyelid.

Identifying Sagging Eyelids

Sagging eyelids can be assessed based on their type, origin, and effects. Each form has its own unique characteristics that impact both appearance and vision.

• Drooping Eyebrows: With aging, the elasticity of the muscles in the eyebrow area weakens, causing them to droop. This increases pressure on the upper eyelids, leading to sagging, even if the eyelid muscles themselves are functioning properly. This condition narrows the visual field, especially from the upper part.
• Hooded Eyelid: In hooded eyelids, excess skin accumulates on the upper eyelids, forming a fold. This condition is common with aging and becomes more noticeable when the eyes are opened. Although hooded eyelids are often a cosmetic issue, in more severe cases, they can impair the visual field.
• Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid): Ptosis affects the eyelid's lifting mechanism. This can be caused by weakness in the levator muscle, neurological issues, or structural abnormalities. Ptosis can be categorized into the following stages:
  • Mild Ptosis: The eyelid droops slightly but does not obstruct vision.
  • Moderate Ptosis: The visual field narrows, and the person may compensate by raising their eyebrows or tilting their head.
  • Severe Ptosis: The eyelid covers part or all of the eye, causing significant functional impairment.

In addition, congenital and acquired eyelid issues can be distinguished. Congenital forms are often due to underdevelopment of the levator muscle, whereas acquired issues are related to aging, medical conditions, or injuries.

How to Get Rid of Sagging Eyelids?

• EXION Face: Utilizes targeted ultrasound and monopolar radiofrequency to stimulate the production of hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin, effectively tightening sagging skin.
• EMFACE: A non-surgical, modern facelift treatment designed to address age-related changes, treating both sagging facial skin and muscles. The result is firmer skin and the smoothing of wrinkles, including frown lines and nasolabial folds.
• Botulinum Toxin Injections (Botox): Can correct sagging caused by drooping eyebrows by lifting the eyebrows and enhancing the overall appearance.
• EXION Clear RF: Tightens the upper eyelid skin and stimulates collagen production, naturally lifting drooping lids and giving the eyes a more refreshed look.EXION Clear RF: Tightens the upper eyelid skin and stimulates collagen production, naturally lifting drooping lids and giving the eyes a more refreshed look.
• EXION Fractional RF: A microneedling treatment that renews and firms the eyelid skin from within, reducing sagging and making the eyes appear more open and youthful.
• Mesotherapy and Biorevitalization: Hydrate and nourish the delicate eyelid skin, improving elasticity and slowing down sagging, helping the eyes maintain a fresher and younger appearance.
• Surgical Intervention (Blepharoplasty): Eyelid surgery removes excess skin and tightens muscles or connective tissue. This is the most effective and long-lasting solution.
• Ptosis Surgery: This procedure targets the muscle directly responsible for ptosis, such as the levator muscle, helping to lift the eyelid back to its proper level.
• Skincare and Laser Treatments: In mild cases, various skincare treatments or laser therapy can improve eyelid skin and prevent further sagging.
• Physiotherapy: In cases of neurologically induced ptosis, physiotherapy can help strengthen the muscles that control eyelid movement.

Each treatment option plays a role in managing sagging eyelids, and an individualized treatment plan is essential for effective results.

Combination Treatments

• EXION™ Face + EMFACE™ Combination Treatment: An effective solution for addressing both the aesthetic and functional issues caused by sagging eyelids. EXION™ Face tightens the eyelid skin and improves its texture, while EMFACE™ stimulates muscles and lifts sagging eyelids without surgery. This treatment is particularly suitable for patients looking for a non-invasive and painless solution to sagging eyelids.

The treatment plan for sagging eyelids should be customized individually, and the right choice of treatment depends on the cause of the issue and its impact on the quality of life.