How to solve loose and drooping upper eyelids

Generally, drooping or lax upper eyelids may be caused by factors such as aging, chronic sleep deprivation, excessive eye strain, malnutrition, blepharochalasis, among others. Improvement can be achieved under medical guidance through procedures like levator muscle shortening, double eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), radiofrequency skin tightening, general treatments, or surgical interventions. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Aging

With increasing age, collagen and elastic fibers in the skin gradually decrease, reducing skin elasticity and causing muscles to become loose. The skin and muscles around the eyes lose their supportive elasticity, leading to sagging and drooping of the upper eyelids. It is important to maintain proper eye moisturization and sun protection, using eye creams rich in collagen and antioxidants. Under a doctor's supervision, levator muscle shortening surgery may also be performed. This procedure involves making an incision in the upper eyelid, isolating and exposing the levator muscle, then shortening it according to the degree of ptosis to enhance its strength and correct the drooping. The typical reference cost for levator muscle shortening surgery ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 yuan per session. Improvements are usually visible within 1–3 months post-surgery, although risks such as bleeding and infection may occur.

2. Chronic Sleep Deprivation

Inadequate sleep affects the body’s metabolism and endocrine function, impairing blood circulation around the eyes. The skin does not receive sufficient rest and repair, gradually becoming lax. Maintaining adequate sleep and establishing healthy sleeping habits is essential. Under medical guidance, double eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) may also be considered. During this procedure, an appropriate incision line is designed on the upper eyelid, excess skin and fat tissue are removed, and the eyelid skin is fixed to the tarsal plate to create a double eyelid, simultaneously improving upper eyelid laxity. The typical reference cost for blepharoplasty ranges from 3,000 to 12,000 yuan per session. Results generally become apparent within 2–3 months after surgery, though complications such as bleeding and infection may occur.

3. Excessive Eye Strain

Prolonged screen time, reading, or performing detailed work can cause eye fatigue and tension in the periorbital muscles. Over time, these muscles lose elasticity, contributing to upper eyelid laxity. Regular eye breaks and eye exercises are recommended. Under medical supervision, radiofrequency skin tightening may also be used. This treatment uses thermal energy generated by radiofrequency technology to stimulate collagen contraction and regeneration, tightening the skin around the eyes and improving drooping upper eyelids. The typical reference cost for radiofrequency skin tightening ranges from 8,000 to 15,000 yuan per session. Improvements are typically seen within 1–3 months post-treatment, though temporary side effects such as redness and pain may occur.

4. Malnutrition

An unbalanced diet lacking sufficient protein, vitamins, and other nutrients can negatively affect skin health. Without essential nutritional support, the upper eyelid skin may become loose and lose elasticity. It is recommended to adjust dietary habits to ensure adequate nutrient intake.

5. Blepharochalasis

Blepharochalasis may be related to genetic or endocrine factors, characterized by a reduction in elastic fibers of the eyelid skin, resulting in looseness and drooping. Severe upper eyelid laxity may cover part or all of the pupil, impairing vision. Mild cases may be managed conservatively with skincare products; however, severe cases often require surgical removal of excess skin.

It is recommended to seek care at a reputable medical facility and undergo any procedures under professional medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness. Daily preventive measures include maintaining eye hydration and sun protection, avoiding excessive eye strain, ensuring sufficient sleep, eating a balanced diet, and performing gentle eye massages to help alleviate symptoms of upper eyelid laxity and drooping.