You may look in the mirror one day and notice that one or both of your upper eyelids hang a little lower than they used to. This is a common change, but it can make you look more tired than you feel, and in some cases, it can even interfere with your field of vision.
Our team at Eyecare Plus can evaluate your eyelids and discuss your options during a routine eye exam.
If you’re looking for ways to address droopy eyelids without a surgical procedure, you have several options. It’s possible to improve the appearance of droopy eyelids with non-surgical methods ranging from at-home techniques to professional treatments.
What Causes Droopy Eyelids?
A droopy eyelid can happen for a few reasons. It’s often a natural part of the aging process as the small muscles around your eyes lose some of their tone over time. Your genetic background can also play a role in whether you develop droopy eyelids.
At-Home Methods & Eyelid Support
For mild cases, you might be curious about what you can try at home. These methods focus on supporting the skin health and muscle tone around your eyes, which may offer subtle improvements.
Simple Facial Exercises
Certain exercises may help stimulate the small muscles in your eyelids. For example, you can try raising your eyebrows, holding them for several seconds, and then closing your eyes. This simple movement engages the muscles that help lift your upper lids.
Do Eyelid Lift Creams Work?
You’ve probably seen many over-the-counter creams that claim to lift the eyelids. While these creams can’t change your muscle structure, products with ingredients like peptides and antioxidants can hydrate the skin. This extra moisture can make your skin appear temporarily firmer and more toned.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Small daily habits can also support your overall eye health. Getting enough sleep each night gives your eyes and the surrounding tissues time to rest and repair. Staying properly hydrated is also important for maintaining healthy, supple skin.
Professional Non-Surgical Treatments
If you’re looking for more noticeable results, a professional evaluation can open the door to other options that don’t involve surgery. These treatments are designed to provide a more direct approach to lifting the eyelid.
Prescription Eye Drops
For certain types of droopy eyelids, your eye doctor might recommend prescription eye drops. These drops work by activating a tiny muscle in your eyelid, causing it to contract. This contraction can lift the lid for several hours at a time, giving you a temporary improvement.
In-Office Options
Technology offers another path for addressing droopy eyelids. Treatments like OptiLift can help improve the appearance of the skin around your eyes—all without invasive steps. This can be an effective option if you’re seeking visible results.
The Connection Between Dry Eyes & Droopy Lids
Sometimes, other eye conditions can make your eyes feel uncomfortable and draw more attention to droopy lids. If you have a condition like dry eye, you may find yourself rubbing your eyes more often. This friction can affect the delicate skin of the area over time.
Common Signs of Dry Eye
You may be experiencing dry eye if you notice:
- A scratchy or gritty feeling, like sand is in your eye
- Redness and general irritation
- Watery eyes that seem to tear up for no reason
- Discomfort when you wear your contact lenses
If these symptoms seem familiar, you may wish to consider dry eye treatment.
When to See an Eye Doctor in Greater Nashville
It’s always a good idea to schedule a visit with a professional if you notice changes in your eyelids. This is especially true if the changes happen quickly or start to block your vision.
Reasons to Schedule an Exam
Consider booking an appointment with your eye doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Your eyelid droops suddenly over just a day or two
- Your vision is noticeably affected
- You feel any pain or discomfort around your eye
- You’re unsure what is causing your eyelid to droop
A comprehensive exam with your eye doctor in Greater Nashville can help you get clear answers.
At Eyecare Plus, our team can assess your eye health, determine the cause of eyelid droop, and discuss which non-surgical options might be right for you. We proudly serve patients across six convenient locations: Clarksville, Columbia, Green Hills, Hendersonville, Hickory Hollow Antioch, and Murfreesboro.
If you have questions about droopy eyelids or other eye health concerns, Eyecare Plus is here to help. Schedule a consultation to explore your treatment options and find a solution that fits your needs.
