TL;DR:
- Drooping eyelids (ptosis) affect both aesthetics and vision; treatments are available.
- Myth 1: Plastic surgery does not create unnatural results when done by modern approaches like orbital plasty, often combined with procedures like canthoplasty. Surgery lasts 45 mins–2 hours, recovery takes 10–14 days.
- Myth 2: Surgery isn't the only solution; less invasive options (e.g., helium plasma) work for mild cases. Advanced cases may need treatments like a forehead lift.
- Myth 3: Ptosis impacts vision and causes eye fatigue, not just aesthetic concerns.
- Myth 4: Not limited to older people; genetics, stress, and sun exposure affect all ages.
- Myth 5: Makeup offers only temporary masking; advancing ptosis limits its effectiveness. Consult a specialist for tailored solutions.
Drooping eyelids are a common problem that affects appearance, worsens self-esteem, and can even limit vision. Fortunately, treatments are available to address the problem of drooping eyelids. However, there is also no shortage of myths on the subject – in this article we will dispel five of the most popular myths about drooping eyelids.
Myth 1: Plastic surgery produces unnatural results.
The problem of drooping eyelids will not disappear on its own: an effective solution here is orbital plasty. However, some patients are reluctant to undergo this procedure because they fear the unnatural effect of an overly drawn-out, cat eye. Modern plastic surgery, however, has little in common with that of decades ago. The procedure allows to get rid of excess skin lacking firmness, but also fatty hernias and minimize defects occurring at the muscle level. The surgeon analyzes each case individually, so orbital plasty can be combined with canthoplasty or canthopexy: procedures that allow correcting the shape of the eye. However, everything is carried out in moderation, and outsiders don't even guess that a fresh, youthful look is the result of the procedure. Concerns also often come from doubts about the complexity of the procedure and recovery after plastic surgery. However, the procedure for drooping eyelids normally takes only 45 minutes to 2 hours, and full recovery usually takes 10 to 14 days. Thus, it is a less troublesome operation than at least jaw angle reduction, after which one must eat liquid foods, and can return to normal activity after three weeks.
Myth 2: Surgery is the only solution for drooping eyelids.
It all depends on the case. With age, collagen production decreases, and the skin loses firmness and begins to yield to the laws of gravity. One of the consequences of such changes on the face is precisely drooping eyelids, so one way to solve this problem is forehead lift. Increasing the skin tone on the forehead also makes the eyes more open and youthful. However, in less severe cases, when the drooping eyelid is not so advanced, one can also resort to less invasive methods: specifically, using helium plasma.
Myth 3: Drooping eyelids are only an aesthetic problem.
Drooping eyelids are commonly considered only an aesthetic problem, so many people do not understand the need for the procedure. In reality, however, drooping eyelids can lead to a limited field of vision and eye fatigue. Thus, the procedure yields results, not only in terms of appearance and visual rejuvenation of the face, but also provides health benefits and improves quality of life.
Myth 4: Drooping eyelids only occur in older people.
It is often believed that drooping eyelids only occur in older people. This has quite a bit to do with the truth, as drooping eyelids are due to declining collagen production and the natural loss of skin firmness. However, the truth is that drooping eyelids can affect people of all ages. Factors such as genetics, stress and sun exposure often contribute to the weakening of the muscles around the eyes, regardless of age. Because of the structure of the eye and eyelid, there are times when a drooping eyelid is a lifelong problem, and only gets worse over time.
Myth 5: The problem of drooping eyelids can be solved with skillful makeup.
The problem of drooping eyelids is so common that the Internet is full of tips on how to paint to mask it. Of course, if the eyelids droop slightly, with the right methods it is possible to aesthetically draw eyeliner lines or apply shadows. However, this is only a temporary solution, because with age the problem only worsens, and the moving eyelids become less and less visible, which actually makes eye makeup impossible, or leads to reflection on the eyelid and rapid smearing of cosmetics. Optical masking of a drooping eyelid is therefore only possible up to a certain point. Drooping eyelids can be a source of frustration and discomfort, but thanks to advances in aesthetic medicine, there are various methods that can help improve their appearance. However, it is important to dispel any myths and rely on facts, preferably heard during a consultation with a plastic surgeon. If you are struggling with this problem, see a specialist who can help you find the best solution for your needs.
Conclusion
Drooping eyelids can affect both appearance and vision, but myths often cause confusion. Modern treatments, including surgery and less invasive options, offer safe, natural results. Drooping eyelids aren’t just cosmetic—they can impact overall quality of life. While makeup provides a short-term fix, it cannot address the underlying problem. This issue affects all ages, not just older individuals, making proper treatment crucial. Always consult a qualified specialist to determine the best approach. Rely on facts, not myths, to make informed decisions. Advances in aesthetic medicine make lasting improvements possible for this common concern.
