Loose Skin Around The Eyelids: Causes and Potential Treatments

The area around the eyes is highly delicate, with thinner skin and underlying muscles that support the upper and lower eyelids. As we age, factors such as a natural decrease in collagen and elastin, muscle weakening, and gravitational pull can contribute to the appearance of loose skin around the eyelids and fine lines. 

Additionally, the gradual shifting of fatty tissue around the eyes may lead to puffiness or the appearance of ‘bags’ under the eyes.

For those exploring ways to address these age-related changes, it’s helpful to understand common causes as well as possible treatment options. 

1. Genetic Traits

If one of your parents had loose or droopy skin around their eyelids, there’s a good chance you may have inherited this trait. Studies indicate that genetic factors can significantly influence the skin’s characteristics, such as elasticity and the tendency for skin around the eyelids to loosen over time. 

While many find naturally hooded eyelids appealing, the ageing process can further reduce skin elasticity, contributing to additional laxity in the upper eyelids. In some cases, this looseness can become pronounced enough to affect peripheral vision.

2. Skin Ageing

As you age, the skin loses the plumpness and elasticity around the eye area because of the lower production of collagen and elastin, typically leading to loose skin under the eye or “bags” and fine lines or “crow’s feet”. 

The muscles beneath the skin also grow weaker as you get older, resulting in fat protruding through the thin skin and causing puffiness, particularly the lower eyelid. 

Possible Treatments To Address Drooping Eyelids 

For patients who might be experiencing loose or drooping eyelids, there are several options to consider especially if the condition is impacting the quality of daily life.

Drooping eyelids can sometimes impact one’s field of vision or create challenges with eye strain (a condition medically referred to as ptosis). Medical evaluation can help determine the best approach in such cases.

One potential treatment for functional issues related to eyelid drooping is blepharoplasty. This procedure aims to reduce excessive tissue around the eyelids, which may help improve peripheral vision or alleviate other functional challenges posed by ptosis. 

However, for those whose drooping eyelids do not interfere with sight or daily activities, there may be no pressing need to seek treatment.

You will only be able to determine the best path forward if you have undergone a thorough assessment and consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. This way, any recommendation made with regards to your circumstance aligns with your functional needs and overall health goals.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. 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.

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.