Hooded Eyelids: What Are They, Causes & Treatment

What are hooded eyelids?

Hooded eyelids refer to a condition where excess skin droops over the crease of the eyelids.

This facial feature is also sometimes referred to as “bedroom eyes”, due to their tendency to make the eyes appear heavy and partially closed. Most hooded (heavy)  eyelids are hereditary, while some are acquired as part of natural ageing.

The Causes of Hooded Eyelids

Hooded eyelids are often associated with ageing, but here’s an in-depth look into how several factors can contribute to this very characteristic eye shape:

Genetics

Hooded (heavy) eyelids can be inherited from your parents or other family members.

Congenital

They may also be due to a malformation of the levator muscle present at birth. A family history is usually attributable to this condition. But in most cases, the condition only affects one eye.

Age-related changes

Over time,  the muscles and tissues supporting our eyelids can weaken and stretch. 

Specifically, the levator palpebrae superioris (responsible for lifting the upper eyelids), orbicularis oculi (circular muscle surrounding the eye socket which also helps close the eyelids), and Müller’s Muscle (for support and lifting) all play a role in hooded or droopy eyelids. 

Underlying medical condition

One of the most common medical conditions is ptosis, the drooping of the eyelid due to nerve damage. 

For example, myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune condition affecting the communication between the nerves and muscles. It could lead to weakness of the eyelid muscles, leading to ptosis.

Third cranial nerve palsy is also a condition damaging the nerve that controls eye muscles, including nerves responsible for lifting the eyelids.

Lifestyle factors

Lifestyle factors like lack of sleep, dehydration, and UV exposure may all contribute to hooded or drooping eyelids, albeit minimally.

Without quality sleep, the body produces more of the stress hormone cortisol, breaking down collagen and elastin in the skin. This leads to a loss of elasticity around the eyes, making the upper eyelids appear heavier and droopier.

Sleeping also allows the levator muscles to relax. Not having enough rest causes these muscles to fatigue and weaken over time.

Hydration and UV exposure also play a part in damaging and weakening the supporting muscles surrounding the eyelids. Keep yourself hydrated and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from harmful UVA and UVB rays by wearing sunscreen and proper clothing.

How Blepharoplasty Addresses Hooded Eyelids

Take note blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure with potential complications associated with it. It is possible to have eyelids that appear too high, lagophthalmos (inability to close the eye), and corneal exposure (dryness due to incomplete eyelid closure) in a botched surgery.

However, it is a practical way of addressing eyelid hooding. Any board-certified and licenced plastic surgeon will communicate with you the procedure’s risks and undertake all precautions and best practices necessary for a favourable outcome.

What Is Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a procedure that involves removing excess tissue from the upper eyelids. 

The surgery may involve making incisions along the natural creases above the lash line. In some cases, the surgeon may also reposition or remove small amounts of orbital fat, depending on the patient’s specific needs. 

This can result in changes to the appearance of the eyelid crease and surrounding area. The procedure aims to address concerns related to excess skin, and the outcome varies based on individual factors.

Seek Advice on Hooded Eyelid Blepharoplasty from Dr Jack Zoumaras

Hooded eyelids are a natural part of the ageing process and do not require surgical intervention unless you choose to explore it. If you’re considering blepharoplasty, Dr. Jack Zoumaras at Artiste Plastic Surgery can provide a thorough consultation to discuss your concerns and explore all available options. 

It’s important to carefully evaluate whether surgery is necessary, as invasive procedures carry risks. 

Dr. Zoumaras will offer a transparent, unbiased discussion to help you assess if this approach aligns with your personal goals, but there is no obligation to proceed.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All plastic surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Recovery varies between 1-4 weeks. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons. More information on our website. 

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.