Eyelid asymmetry can develop for a variety of reasons. The natural aging process may lead to droopy eyelids due to weakened skin. Additionally, genetics, sun damage, and smoking can accelerate the aging process, resulting in eyelid asymmetry. Thankfully, blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is available for patients.
Eyelid surgery can improve the appearance of the eye and eyelid. This procedure reshapes, removes, or repositions the structures located around the eyelids. Patients may choose to have surgery on both eyelids, upper eyelids, or lower eyelids. Those with eyelid asymmetry may require surgery to improve facial aesthetics and achieve a more symmetrical look.
Uneven Eyelids
Eyelid asymmetry is common among individuals. However, some people experience perfectly symmetrical features and may not require or want surgery. Uneven eyelids can give the face an unbalanced appearance. For instance, a person may appear tired, disinterested, or angry. When eyelids droop, they can cover the eye, interrupting sight. When this occurs, surgery is an option to increase vision.
The cause of uneven eyelids ranges in severity. Simple genetics can play a factor, while other reasons include medical conditions and uneven skin tissue. Fat distribution surrounding the eye may need to be removed for the eyelid to gain full function.
Eyelid Asymmetry Causes
According to the National Institute of Health, the following can cause eyelid asymmetry:
- Motor tics: Tics can occur on one side of the face and may disappear on their own.
- Stroke: A stroke may cause loss of balance, vision problems in one or both eyes, and paralysis of the face.
- Trauma: Physical trauma to the eyelid can damage facial nerves, leading to drooping eyelids and weakness in the muscles.
- Parkinson’s disease: Those with this neurological condition may have difficulty closing and opening their eyes.
- Ptosis: This condition consists of a droopy eyelid and can be present at birth or develop later in older adults.
- Bell’s palsy: This condition affects facial movements and expressions, typically causing paralysis to one side of the face.
- Genetics: Some people inherit asymmetrical eyelids from their parents.
- Age: With age, the body changes, including loose skin that can cause eyelids to droop.
- Uneven fat distribution: When one eyelid has more fat than the other, it is noticeable in appearance and can interfere with eye movement.
Many medical conditions can lead to vision issues and difficulty opening or closing eyelids. Additionally, trauma can play a part if an individual has suffered muscle or nerve damage near the eye or on one side of the face.
Two Types of Periocular Asymmetry
Periocular asymmetry, also referred to as a lack of symmetry around the eyeballs, can be separated into two broad categories:
- Congenital: Some individuals are born with defects such as a facial cleft as well as structural abnormalities of the face that can result in eyelid asymmetry. Congenital problems involving only the soft tissue around the eye can still affect vision.
- Acquired: Acquiring asymmetry is mostly due to the result of trauma. If an individual suffers from chemical burns, a motor vehicle accident, an animal attack, or an assault with a sharp or blunt instrument, they can easily develop asymmetry. Injuries can impact both the upper and lower eyelids.
If you are experiencing difficulty seeing due to a drooping eyelid or you have eyelid asymmetry, consider finding a surgeon who can help guide you in the right direction to help you achieve symmetry regarding facial features.
Find a Skilled Eyelid Surgeon
At Oasis Eye, patients can receive care from a top eyelid and oculofacial plastic surgeon. Our plastic surgery and laser center offers cosmetic, reconstructive, and non-surgical eyelid surgery options. Additionally, our eye care center offers surgical correction of eyelid asymmetry.
Consider finding treatment from our eyelid surgeon at Oasis Eye. Schedule an appointment with an expert who can explain your surgery options. During your consultation, a surgeon will examine your eyelids to determine the best option for surgery. Contact us today to learn more.