Hooding of the Eye (Ptosis)
Ptosis is more common
in older adults
as skin ages
Blepharoplasty is
safe & effective
for treating ptosis
Results can last
5-7 years or more
to improve vision
Blepharoplasty offers
functional & cosmetic
benefits
Ptosis, also known as eyelid hooding or hooding of the eye, is a condition where the upper eyelid droops over the eye. This can occur due to age, genetics, injury, or certain medical conditions. For some, ptosis is a cosmetic concern, while for others, it can interfere with vision, making everyday activities challenging.
Patients with hooding of the eye may have a visibly drooping eyelid, difficulty keeping their eyes open, eye strain, and/or impaired vision.
What causes ptosis?
Ptosis can affect one or both eyes and may develop gradually or suddenly. Common causes include:
- Aging: Over time, the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelids weaken
- Genetics: Some individuals are born with ptosis or have a family history of the condition
- Neurological conditions: Some disorders that affect muscle control can lead to eyelid drooping
- Injury or surgery: Trauma or prior eye surgeries may damage the eyelid muscles
Is ptosis a serious issue?
In many cases, ptosis is not a serious medical condition—though patients often elect to fix this hooding of the eye because of the way it enhances their look, and their self esteem.
In some cases, however, ptosis does take a toll over time and can cause other issues, such as:
- Vision issues. There is some evidence that ptosis might contribute to amblyopia (“lazy eye”) or astigmatism (irregular curving of the cornea of the eye).
- Muscular issues. If you often tilt your head to see, it can put repetitive strain on neck and forehead muscles. These can in turn make other headaches or neck spasms worse.
Again, these complications tend to occur in more severe cases of ptosis, especially if present from childhood. If you encounter any of these, it might be a sign that your ptosis should be checked. Cosmetic treatments for ptosis are also common.
What is treatment for ptosis like?
Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a procedure that removes excess skin, fat, or m
uscle from the upper eyelid. When performed to correct ptosis, the treatment can help restore proper eyelid positioning and improve vision.
While effective for correcting ptosis and improving vision, blepharoplasty also enhances the appearance of the eyes by reducing sagging and creating a more youthful look.
How does blepharoplasty work?
At Forefront, our providers use an ultra-pulse carbon dioxide laser (or similar treatment) to perform blepharoplasty. This approach is especially effective for delicate areas like the eyelids, allowing for precise removal or reshaping of excess skin and fat. When removing fat cells and loose skin, the laser acts as a precise tool for cutting, reshaping, and sealing tissue simultaneously. This minimizes bleeding during surgery, reduces swelling, and promotes faster healing compared to traditional methods.
Using an ultra-pulse carbon dioxide laser for blepharoplasty ensures that the procedure is precise and minimally invasive. In fact, the laser’s precision and safety make it a preferred method for most patients looking to improve hooding of the eye.
What to expect during blepharoplasty for ptosis
Prior to treatment, your Forefront provider will evaluate your eye area, discuss your goals and overall health, and determine if blepharoplasty is the best option for you. If it is, you will then schedule a blepharoplasty treatment session.
Here is what to expect during your session:
- Preparation: The treatment area is cleansed, and local anesthesia or sedation is administered to ensure your comfort.
- Laser application: The laser is used to create precise incisions in the natural creases of the eyelids. The laser simultaneously cuts and seals tissue, minimizing bleeding and swelling.
- Tissue adjustment: Excess skin and fat are carefully removed or repositioned, and the laser stimulates collagen production for added skin tightening.
- Closure and aftercare: Because the laser seals the incisions as it works, the procedure is nearly bloodless. A detailed recovery plan will be provided to ensure optimal healing.
Laser blepharoplasty treatment typically takes about 60-90 minutes, and you may return to work within a week, looking well-rested and refreshed.Am I a candidate for blepharoplasty treatment?
Blepharoplasty can help correct hooded eyes in adults with healthy skin who are experiencing droopy or sagging eyelids that impact vision
Blepharoplasty may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as dry eye, thyroid disorders, or poor overall health. A consultation with a Forefront expert will help determine if this treatment is right for you.
What results can be expected from blepharoplasty?
After blepharoplasty, most patients notice a brighter, more refreshed eye area. While mild swelling or bruising is common initially, these effects typically resolve within 1-2 weeks. Final results become apparent as healing progresses, revealing smoother, firmer eyelids.
Upper eyelid surgery can last at least five to seven years. Lower eyelid surgery rarely needs to be repeated. Of course, the natural aging process will continue over time, leading to gradual changes in your eye area. Additional treatments may be recommended in the future to maintain your results.
Interested in Blepharoplasty eyelid surgery for eyelid hooding? Find a Forefront location near you today.
Interested in Hooding of the Eye (Ptosis)? Request a consultation with a skin specialist today.
*Treatment options may vary at each location.Please confirm your desired treatment is offered at your preferred location when scheduling. *Age Restriction.
For patients scheduling who are under 18 years of age (19 in Alabama) please make sure you have permission from your parent or legal guardian to schedule this appointment. Your parent or legal guardian must accompany you on your initial visit and on certain subsequent visits to provide appropriate informed consent.