Have you ever looked in the mirror or at a picture of yourself and felt your eyes look asymmetrical? Or that your eyelids are uneven or droopy? These are very common complaints for men and women of all ages. Even supermodels and celebrities who seem to have flawless, perfectly symmetrical faces often have (or had) eyelids that are uneven.
For some, the unbalance is so small that it’s not noticeable. But for others, uneven eyelids are an issue that gives the face an unbalanced and tired appearance. Some even begin to experience vision issues and discomfort if the eyelids become too droopy.
Eyes are a very important facial feature. They say a lot about our age, lifestyle, and overall health. According to many studies, they are even considered the most important facial feature when determining attractiveness.
Luckily, you have lots of options, both surgical and non-surgical, to fix uneven eyelids. In this blog, we will discuss the causes of uneven eyelids and various solutions to address the issue, including non-surgical treatments, surgical procedures, and even a few simple at-home beauty hacks that will help hide uneven eyelids.
What Causes Sagging Upper Eyelids & Uneven Eyelids?
Sagging or uneven eyes and eyelids are pretty common among people of all ages. At some point, many of us notice differences in the symmetry of our eyes, whether subtle or more pronounced.
Understanding why your eyes or eyelids are uneven is important to determine the best possible solution. Contrary to what many believe, it’s not only aging and genetics; various other reasons can contribute to uneven eyelids.
Here are some of the most common causes of uneven eyelids:
Genetics
Your genetic makeup can play a significant role in the symmetry of your face. Some people are born with naturally asymmetrical eyes, which is perfectly normal. If your parents or grandparents had uneven eyes or hooded eyelids, there is a higher chance you will, too. While genetic traits can add character to your appearance, things like hooded eyelids can become problematic as you age. Loose eyelid skin may obstruct your vision over time.
Aging
As we age, the skin loses elasticity, and the muscles around the eyes weaken. The decline in elasticity is due to the aging body producing less collagen and elastin to keep skin tight and flexible. This can lead to drooping or sagging eyelids, causing asymmetry. Genetics can affect how soon this will occur, but for many, it happens at a much earlier age than expected.
Most start to notice the skin on their eyelids begin to sag in their early 40s, but droopy eyelids can happen much sooner for many.
Injury or Trauma
Any injury or trauma to the eye area can result in uneven eyelids. This includes accidents, surgical procedures, or even repetitive actions like rubbing the eyes vigorously or pulling on your lids to put in contact lenses.
Eyelid Ptosis
Ptosis is a condition where the upper eyelid droops due to weak or stretched muscles. It can affect one or both eyelids, leading to asymmetry.
Eye Conditions
Certain eye conditions like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), conjunctivitis (pink eye), or styes can cause swelling or irritation, resulting in temporary unevenness.
Neurological Disorders
Rarely, neurological conditions such as Bell’s palsy or Horner’s syndrome can cause eyelid drooping or other asymmetrical effects.
Lifestyle Factors
Stress, fatigue, and poor sleep habits can contribute to temporary eyelid asymmetry by causing puffiness or swelling. Smoking and excess alcohol consumption can also lead to droopy eyelids.
These bad habits can contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading the skin around your eyes to sag.
Medical Treatments and Procedures
Certain cosmetic treatments, like Botox injections, can also contribute to sagging eyelids. Botox uses botulinum toxin type A to paralyze muscles and reduce wrinkles. However, if the toxin spreads beyond the targeted area, it can inadvertently affect the upper eyelid muscles, causing temporary sagging. To minimize this risk, it’s crucial to choose a skilled medical professional for such procedures.
How to Fix Uneven Eyelids
Unless they become excessively droopy, uneven eyes are typically not a cause for medical concern. However, uneven or droopy eyelids can cause issues with self-esteem.
Thankfully, there are various ways to fix uneven, droopy eyelids, ranging from surgical procedures to non-surgical treatments and home remedies.
Surgical Eyelid Procedures
Blepharoplasty
One effective option for addressing uneven eyelids is Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery. This surgical procedure involves carefully removing excess skin, fat, or muscle from the eyelids to improve symmetry and rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes.
Before undergoing Blepharoplasty, you will need to have a consultation with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess the condition of your eyelids, discuss your goals and expectations, and determine whether you are a suitable candidate for eyelid surgery.
Blepharoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your preference and the extent of the procedure. The surgeon will make incisions along the eyelids’ natural creases to minimize visible scarring. Through these incisions, excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle tissue are carefully removed or repositioned.
Following Blepharoplasty, most patients can go home the same day as surgery. You can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the eyes for a week or two and will need to take it easy during that time. Complete recovery may take several weeks to months, during which time you’ll gradually see the final outcome of the surgery.
Blepharoplasty offers a highly effective solution for correcting uneven eyelids and rejuvenating the appearance of the eyes, providing long-lasting results that can enhance your confidence and overall aesthetic appeal.
If you want to learn more about Blepharoplasty, see 5 Interesting Facts about Eyelid Surgery.
Blepharoplasty + Browplasty for Enhanced Results
Often, an upper eyelid Blepharoplasty is combined with a Browplasty, or brow lift/forehead lift, to enhance the results. A Browplasty lifts the muscles and tissues underneath the forehead, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and deep furrows that come with aging. Sometimes, a Browplasty alone can correct unwanted eyelid drooping. However, the combination of Blepharoplasty and Browplasty is especially effective in reducing the “angry” look that occurs when eyebrows sag and eyelids droop.
Ptosis Surgery
In cases of eyelid ptosis, where the upper eyelid droops, ptosis surgery can be performed to tighten or reposition the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid.
During ptosis surgery, a plastic surgeon will make precise incisions in the eyelid to access the underlying muscles. Depending on the specific needs of the patient, the surgeon may tighten or reposition these muscles to restore proper eyelid elevation and symmetry.
Ptosis surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, and the recovery process may involve some swelling and bruising around the eyes.
Recovery and when to expect the final outcome of surgery is similar to eyelid surgery.
Canthoplasty
Canthoplasty is a specialized surgical procedure that is less common compared to other eyelid surgeries like Blepharoplasty. It is typically performed for individuals with specific concerns about the position or symmetry of the outer corner of their eyelids, known as the canthus.
While not as widely known as other cosmetic procedures, canthoplasty can be highly beneficial for individuals who experience issues such as a naturally drooping or downturned outer corner of the eyelid, lateral canthal displacement where the outer corner of the eyelid is positioned too far inward or outward, and laxity or weakness in the canthal structures.
Non-Surgical Eyelid Treatments
If you aren’t ready for surgery or aren’t deemed a candidate for eyelid surgery, there are several non-surgical eyelid treatments.
Here are some of the most common non-surgical uneven eyelid solutions to consider:
Upneeq
Upneeq is an FDA-approved prescription eye drop specifically designed to address upper eyelid drooping. The active ingredient in Upneeq, oxymetazoline hydrochloride, works by selectively stimulating the Müller’s muscle, which is responsible for elevating the upper eyelid.
This targeted action helps temporarily lift the eyelid and reduce asymmetry, providing noticeable improvements in eyelid appearance and overall facial aesthetics.
This non-invasive approach offers a convenient and discreet way to address uneven eyelids without surgery. Upneeq is an excellent option if you aren’t ready for eyelid surgery or if you aren’t a candidate for surgical procedures.
As with any prescription medication, it’s essential to use Upneeq as directed by a qualified healthcare professional. Patients should follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions provided by their healthcare provider to ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Muscle Relaxing Injections
Botulinum toxin injections, known best as Botox, are well-known for their cosmetic applications, including treating facial wrinkles. However, Botox can also be used very strategically to address uneven eyelids.
By selectively targeting and relaxing specific muscles around the eyes, Botox injections can help lift drooping eyelids and create a more harmonious eye contour. This non-surgical approach offers a quick and relatively painless way to achieve subtle yet noticeable improvements in eyelid symmetry, with results lasting several months before requiring repeat treatments.
Other Non-Surgical Solutions to Enhance Eyes
In addition to the options above, you could also consider laser skin tightening, fractionated RF energy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), chemical peels, PDO threading, or dermal filler.
While these options are typically not performed directly on the eyelids due to the sensitive nature of the skin in that area, they can be beneficial for rejuvenating the skin around the eyes and improving overall facial aesthetics to indirectly address issues like eyelid laxity or asymmetry.
At-Home Techniques to Hide Uneven Eyelids
Many people want to know if they can do anything at home to diminish the appearance of uneven eyelids. While not as effective as surgical procedures or non-surgical techniques, you can try a few things at home that might help camouflage your uneven eyelids.
Eye Exercises
While not proven to permanently correct uneven eyelids, certain eye exercises may help strengthen the muscles around the eyes and improve eyelid symmetry over time. These exercises can include blinking rapidly, rolling the eyes in various directions, and focusing on near and far objects.
Eye exercises are like any exercise; you must be consistent. To see results, you should incorporate these exercises into your daily routine.
Microcurrent Skincare
If you want to take your facial exercises to the next level, try using a microcurrent device like NuFACE® Fix. These handheld home devices use small electrical impulses to expand and contract your facial muscles.
Eyelid Tape or Strips
For those seeking a temporary solution to uneven eyelids, consider special adhesive eyelid tape or strips. These products are applied to the eyelids to create the illusion of symmetry by lifting the drooping eyelid.
While not a permanent solution, eyelid tape or strips can provide a quick, temporary fix for special occasions or events where a more symmetrical appearance is desired. Here’s a detailed guide to help you use them effectively:
- Material and Design:
- The strips are often half-moon shaped and made from medical-grade material, ensuring they are safe for use on the delicate skin of the eyelids.
- Backed with adhesive glue, these strips are designed to stay in place throughout the day.
- Preparation:
- Cleanse and Dry: Ensure your eyelid area is fully cleansed and dry before application. This step is crucial to make sure the adhesive sticks properly.
- Application Process:
- Placement: Carefully place the strip on the eyelid in an area that gives a natural lift. To achieve symmetry, make sure to place the strip in the same spot on both eyes.
- Camouflage: Regular makeup can be applied over the strips to camouflage their visibility, allowing for a seamless look.
By following these steps, you can temporarily achieve a natural, lifted appearance without the need for surgery.
Makeup Camouflaging
Makeup can work wonders in camouflaging uneven eyelids and creating the illusion of symmetry. By using techniques such as contouring with eyeshadow and eyeliner, you can enhance the appearance of your eyelids and make them look less uneven.
Is Eyelid Treatment Covered by Insurance?
Sometimes, eyelid surgery and even non-surgical eyelid treatments are covered by insurance. Whether eyelid treatment is covered by insurance depends on several factors, including the specific type of treatment, if there is an underlying medical condition being addressed, and the terms of your insurance policy.
In general, treatments that are considered medically necessary to correct functional issues or alleviate symptoms may be covered by insurance, while cosmetic procedures aimed solely at improving appearance are typically not covered.
For example, surgical procedures such as Blepharoplasty or ptosis surgery may be covered by insurance if they are deemed medically necessary to address conditions such as impaired vision or eyelid dysfunction. However, coverage may vary depending on factors such as the severity of the condition, documentation of symptoms, and pre-authorization requirements.
Non-surgical treatments like Upneeq may also be covered by insurance if prescribed for the treatment of acquired blepharoptosis and considered medically necessary. Again, coverage will depend on factors such as the specific indication for use and the terms of your insurance plan.
You need to consult with a plastic surgeon to determine if your treatment is covered by insurance and any potential out-of-pocket costs associated with eyelid treatment. They can help assess whether a particular treatment is medically necessary and provide documentation to support insurance claims.
Additionally, it’s advisable to review your insurance policy or contact your insurance provider directly to understand coverage limitations, deductibles, and any pre-authorization requirements that may apply to eyelid treatment.
Are Uneven Eyelids Dangerous?
Uneven eyelids are generally not dangerous and are considered a natural variation in human anatomy and part of aging.
That said, there are those with severe eyelid hooding who experience discomfort or frustration due to uneven eyelids, which can impact their confidence and overall well-being.
For most, uneven eyelids do not pose significant health risks. However, they can affect individuals emotionally and psychologically, leading to feelings of self-consciousness or dissatisfaction with one’s appearance.
Tips for Preventing Uneven Eyes and Eyelids
While it’s not always possible to completely prevent uneven eyes and eyelids, some healthy habits can help slow down the aging process and minimize their appearance.
Here are some tips for preventing uneven eyelids:
Protect Your Eyes from Sun Damage
Wear sunglasses with UV protection when outdoors to shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, which can accelerate skin aging and contribute to sagging eyelids.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients and staying hydrated can promote overall skin health, including the delicate skin around the eyes. Regular exercise can also improve circulation and reduce puffiness.
Get Sufficient Sleep
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to repair and rejuvenate. Lack of sleep can lead to fluid retention and puffiness around the eyes, exacerbating the appearance of uneven eyelids.
Practice Good Skincare
Use gentle, medical-grade cleansers and moisturizers specifically formulated for the eye area to keep the skin hydrated and supple. Additionally, consider adding eye creams or serums to your daily skincare regime.
Some medical-grade skin products contain ingredients like peptides and antioxidants that can help support collagen production and firm the skin around the eyes. While results may vary, incorporating these products into your skincare routine could potentially help maintain eyelid firmness and elasticity.
Avoid Tugging or Pulling
Not being gentle with your skin, especially the delicate skin around your eyes, can damage your skin. When touching and caring for your eyes, gentle handling is key. Whether you’re applying skincare, washing your face, or putting in contact lenses, treating the delicate skin around your eyes with the utmost care is essential.
Avoid aggressive rubbing or pulling. Instead, opt for gentle, circular motions when cleansing and patting motions when applying skincare products.
Protect Your Eyes from Strain
Limit screen time and take regular breaks to rest your eyes, especially if you spend long hours working on computers or smartphones. Practice proper ergonomics and ensure adequate lighting to reduce eye strain.
Additionally, consider using blue light blocker glasses to minimize exposure to harmful blue light emitted by screens, which can contribute to eye strain and fatigue.
Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Your skin, including the delicate skin around your eyes, often reflects your lifestyle choices,
To maintain the youthful appearance of your eyes, it’s crucial to steer clear of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
These habits can wreak havoc on your skin, accelerating aging and contributing to the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are essential proteins that provide structure and elasticity to the skin, helping to keep it firm and supple. However, smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can interfere with the production of these proteins, leading to sagging eyelids and the formation of wrinkles.
By prioritizing a smoke-free and moderate alcohol lifestyle, you can help preserve the health and vitality of your skin, including the delicate area around your eyes.
Surgical and Non-Surgical Eyelid Treatment in Nashville
If you have uneven eyes or eyelids or are unhappy with the appearance of your upper or lower eyelids, you have many options. The first step in moving forward is setting up a complimentary consultation with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon.
At The Lett Center in Middle Tennessee, whether you opt for a surgical procedure such as Blepharoplasty, or want to try out Botox or obtain a prescription for Upneeq, our team is here to help you make the best decision to suit your needs so you can look and feel your best. Contact us today to request a consultation.