If you’ve noticed one or both upper eyelids sitting lower than usual after a cosmetic procedure, you might be experiencing what’s known as a droopy eyelid.
While it can be unexpected and concerning, it’s typically temporary and not harmful.
This blog not only explores the causes but also how to prevent droopy eyelids, and how to treat droopy eyelids if it happens after a cosmetic treatment.
What is a droopy eyelid?
A droopy eyelid, also known as eyelid ptosis or blepharoptosis, can create a tired or uneven appearance and may affect how the eye opens or closes. In rare cases, it can interfere with vision or cause a sensation of heaviness around the eye.
While ptosis can occur naturally with age or from muscle-related conditions, it may also occur as a side effect of certain cosmetic procedures involving the forehead or frown area.
What causes a droopy eyelid?
In cosmetic settings, droopy eyelids are sometimes linked to muscle involvement near the upper eyelid, particularly the levator palpebrae superioris, the muscle responsible for lifting the eyelid. If a product or technique used during a cosmetic procedure influences this muscle, temporary ptosis may result.
This is uncommon and typically linked to how a treatment was administered. Droopy eye occurs in around 5% of patients, but the risk is reduced to 1% if an experienced doctor performs the procedure.
The risk may be reduced when procedures are performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner using appropriate techniques.
Symptoms of droopy eyelid
Everyone experiences symptoms differently, but common signs of eyelid ptosis include:
- Eyelid heaviness: A sensation of weight or pressure around the upper eye
- Restricted eye movement: Difficulty fully opening or closing one eye
- Difficulty applying makeup: You may first notice the condition when you struggle to apply mascara or eye makeup due to the change in position of your eyelid
- Vision changes (in rare or severe cases): The drooping eyelid may partially obscure the field of vision
Should this rare condition develop, symptoms may appear within a few days and peak around 2 weeks when the cosmetic injection takes full effect.
How long does eyelid droop last?
When caused by a temporary cosmetic side effect, droopy eyelids generally improve on their own over time. Most people see gradual improvement within 7 to 14 days, although in some cases, it may take a little longer. As the product wears off, the affected muscle typically regains full function.
How to prevent droopy eyelids
At the end of the day, cosmetic injectables are a medical procedure, and all medical procedures carry an element of risk. However, these risks are often minimal, and fortunately, the results are not permanent. The chances of developing eyelid ptosis may be reduced by:
- Engaging an experienced injector like Dr Lindsay Watson you can be assured that the correct injection techniques are used and reduce the risk of conditions like droopy eyelid occurring
- Discussing your full medical history during the consultation
- Following aftercare advice closely, including avoiding pressure or massage around the treatment area (if relevant).
There is no amount of money saved that can compensate for a bad experience. Consider this treatment as an investment in yourself!
How to treat droopy eyelids
Should you be one of the rare few to experience droopy eyelid, there is the option to return to the clinic to have a revision. This will eventually correct the asymmetry, and generally, it will realign within 7 – 14 days.
?When considering how to treat droopy eyelids, professional guidance is essential. In addition to professional advice, simple at-home comfort measures may offer relief:
- Cold chamomile tea bags (stored in the fridge) placed gently over the eyes for 15–20 minutes
- Chilled cucumber slices to refresh and soothe the area
- Splashing the face with cool water a few times daily
These remedies won’t treat the cause but may help ease the sensation of heaviness or puffiness around the eyes.
Choose an experienced practitioner for the best treatment outcomes
Understanding the risks and benefits of cosmetic procedures is key to making informed decisions.
If you’ve experienced droopy eyelids or want to achieve the best possible treatment results, book a consultation with Define Laser today to explore your options in a safe, supportive environment.
