Loose or droopy eyelids can be moderate to the degree that they are hardly noticeable to so severe that they restrict vision. The condition may gradually worsen over time.

Why treat droopy eyelids

If left untreated, severe cases can lead to astigmatism and other vision problems as well as headaches. It is especially important to diagnose and treat the condition in children before vision can deteriorate. Loose, droopy eyelids also can create emotional, social and economic complications.

What you need to know

There are three different conditions that cause loose or droopy eyelids. Some patients may exhibit two or even all three of the conditions.

Excess upper eyelid skin: Also known as dermatochalasis, it can result in a tired, sad appearance in its mild form or block part of a patient's peripheral vision in more severe cases.Abnormal position of eyelid margin: Also known as ptosis, this condition can be congenital, but more often appears in adulthood. While ptosis sometimes can be related to neuromuscular disorders, it most often is caused by weak attachments between the eyelid muscles and underlying eyelid structures.Abnormal brow: Also known as brow ptosis, this condition manifests itself in men and women.  

Droopy eyelid treatment questions to ask a dermatologic surgeon

(Download a Droopy Eyelid Questionnaire to bring to your appointment)

1. Which droopy eyelid procedure is the correct one for me? (What are the options?)
2. What is the estimated cost of the procedure?
3. How long is one appointment?
4. How often will I need to receive treatment to remove my acne scars?
5. How far apart are the treatments?
6. What are the common side effects or complications associated with the procedure?
7. How can I prepare for the treatment/procedure?
8. Does the treatment hurt?
9. What are my pain management and anesthesia options?
10. How long is the recovery time associated with my procedure?
11. Do you have before-and-after patient images to help to prepare me for what to expect?
12. Will someone walk me through the process before going in for treatment?
13. What are the risks?
14. What should I expect after the procedure is performed? (i.e., short-term and long-term effects; activity restrictions; expected recovery period)

General questions to ask before droopy eyelid procedures

1. Is a doctor on site?
2. Is the doctor board-certified in dermatology or in another specialty with equivalent training and experience?
3. Was my medical history taken?
4. Was I given an initial evaluation to determine if the technique or procedure is appropriate for my skin type?
5. Did the doctor show me before-and-after photos?