A lot has been written about drooping eyelids. Cases of this condition vary, ranging from results of the natural aging process to medical diagnosis of ptosis. What are the treatment options for drooping eyelids? Or, more to the point, can this condition simply disappear over time?

Can droopy eyelids go away on its own?

The good news to the above question is that—yes—some cases of drooping eyelids may go away on their own. And, aside from the nuisance of noticing that eyesight is partially blocked from a drooping eyelid, the condition is not life threatening. (Should it worsen, however, we at SightMD recommend visiting an ophthalmologist for medical advice and treatment.)

What is a home remedy for droopy eyelids?

And while we’re on the topic of how to deal with drooping eyelids, it is important to beware of certain myths that may be mistaken for natural cures. These include everything from placing cold compresses over the eyes to practicing facial exercises (known as “face yoga”) to fight drooping eyelids. These do not work. Outside of the possibility of going away naturally, specialized surgery known as “blepharoplasty” is the only solution to getting rid of ptosis.

How to fix droopy eyelids without surgery

Nonsurgical treatments — including hyaluronic acid fillers, or injections like Botox or Dysport can help you look more youthful. These treatments can smooth out wrinkles around your eyes, fill in hollows or tighten sagging eyelids. An oculoplastic surgeon or oculofacial plastic surgeon can assess the best treatment for your needs.

What are my surgical options for treating droopy eyelids?

The surgical treatment for droopy eyelid depends on the specific cause and the severity of the ptosis. If the condition is the result of age or something you were born with, your doctor may explain that nothing needs to be done because the condition isn’t usually harmful to your health. However, you may opt for plastic surgery if you want to reduce the drooping. If your doctor finds that your droopy eyelid is caused by an underlying condition, you will likely be treated for that. This should typically stop the eyelids from sagging. If your eyelid blocks your vision, you’ll need medical treatment. Your doctor may recommend surgery.

When should I reach out to my doctor about my droopy eyelids?

Generally, you should seek treatment if vision changes are having an impact on your daily activities. Reach out to SightMD with any additional questions you have about drooping eyelids—or any other vision-related matter. You have the questions. We have the answers—and treatments, should you need care.

Here’s to your good vision, from SightMD.