Droopy Eyelids Specialist

Sanctuary Cosmetic Center

Plastic Surgery located in McLean, VA & Dulles, VA

Droopy eyelids can make you look tired and older than you really are. At Sanctuary Cosmetic Center in McLean and Dulles, Virginia, the board-certified cosmetic surgeons don’t just repair droopy eyelids, they figure out what caused them in the first place. Without treatment, droopy eyelids may continue to sag and impair your vision. To schedule an appointment with a surgical eyelid expert, call or book a consultation online today.

Droopy Eyelids Q&A

What are droopy eyelids?

A droopy eyelid, or ptosis, occurs when the upper eyelid begins to sag downward. For many, droopy eyelids are primarily a cosmetic concern that adds years to their appearance. As the eyelids continue to sag over your pupils, however, they can actually impact your vision.

Some cases of ptosis are present at birth, but most develop later in life.

What causes droopy eyelids?

One of the most common causes of ptosis is damage to the levator aponeurosis, a covering that acts like a tendon, allowing the eyelid to move. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as cataract surgery, aggressive eye rubbing, stiff contacts, or eye trauma or injury.

Commonly known as a “lazy eye,” congenital ptosis is a defect that’s present at birth.

Other common causes of droopy eyelids include:

Botox® injections
Advanced age
Nerve damage
Eyelid tumors
Eyelid cysts
Certain neurological conditions

Many people develop ptosis as the result of a serious medical condition such as a stroke or spinal cord injury.

Is eyelid surgery right for me?

The experienced surgeons at Sanctuary Cosmetic Center know that determining the root cause of your droopy eyelids is just as important as correcting them. They specialize in oculoplastic surgery and always examine your facial structure from your forehead to your eyes before making recommendations.

At your first consultation, your surgeon reviews your family and medical history before asking questions regarding your eyelid health and any medications or supplements you currently take.

Once they figure out what caused your ptosis, your provider can recommend the right surgical intervention for you.

How do surgeons correct droopy eyelids?

To lift the upper eyelids, tighten the levator muscle, and prevent drooping, your surgeon makes nearly invisible incisions in the crease in your upper eyelid.

Next, they gently lift the eyelid into a natural position that helps your eye look more open and alert. Finally, they remove any extra skin and suture the incision to hold the eyelid in place.

What should I expect after eyelid surgery?

It’s normal for your eyelids to be swollen after surgery, which may temporarily cause blurred vision. To keep your eyes from drying out, your provider may prescribe special lubricating eye drops or creams.

If you’re struggling to feel confident with droopy eyelids, Sanctuary Cosmetic Center can improve your vision and appearance with a modern, natural approach to eyelid surgery. Call or book an appointment online today to learn more.

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