If you’re noticing a tired or heavy look around your eyes, you’re not alone. Many people in the Houston area experience hooded eyes or droopy eyes, which happen when the upper eyelids develop excess skin or fatty tissue that droops over the lash line.
This condition can be influenced by genetics, age, or lifestyle, and it can affect both appearance and vision. Fortunately, upper blepharoplasty—an eyelid surgery focused on the upper eyelid—offers a safe and effective solution to restore a youthful eye appearance and improve your overall facial aesthetics.
What Causes Hooded Eyelids?
Hooded eyelids usually develop over time as the eyelid skin loses elasticity and begins to sag. While natural aging is the most common cause, other contributing factors include genetics, environmental exposure, and even repeated facial expressions.
The skin around your eyes is thin and delicate, which makes it more susceptible to loosening and forming folds. These changes can create a hooded appearance, where the upper eyelid becomes less visible due to sagging skin or fatty tissue.
In extreme cases, the extra skin can lead to vision problems, eye strain, and in some cases, excessive eye rubbing. Surgical treatment by a qualified plastic surgeon can prevent and even reverse these eye conditions.
Hooded Eyelids / Droopy Eyes vs. Ptosis
It’s important to distinguish between hooded eyelids and ptosis because they are not the same thing. Hooded eyelids are primarily caused by excess skin or fat that hangs over the eyelid crease, creating a droopy appearance.
Ptosis, on the other hand, is a medical condition where the eyelid muscle weakens, causing the upper eyelid itself—not just the skin—to fall lower over the eye.
Ptosis can interfere with function, leading to symptoms like blurred vision or difficulty keeping your eyes fully open. While upper blepharoplasty addresses hooded eyelids, ptosis may require a different type of surgical procedure aimed at lifting the eyelid muscle.
How Upper Blepharoplasty Improves Appearance and Function
Upper blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid lift surgery or eyelid blepharoplasty, is a highly effective cosmetic surgery designed to remove loose skin, excess fat, and sometimes muscle from the upper eyelid.
This procedure not only enhances your eye shape and eye appearance but can also improve vision that may be blocked by drooping eyelid skin.
Many of our patients in Texas seek upper blepharoplasty to achieve a more refreshed, youthful appearance and to eliminate the constant feeling of looking tired.
By improving both aesthetics and function, this is one of the best surgical solutions that serves a dual purpose: boosting your confidence and enhancing your quality of life.
The Benefits of Eyelid Surgery for Vision and Aesthetics
Patients often report numerous benefits following upper blepharoplasty surgery. First and foremost, it creates a more open and awake look, giving your face a natural appearance without the heaviness caused by droopy eyelids.
It also smooths out folds in the eyelid skin, making makeup application, such as eye shadow and mascara, easier and more even. From a medical standpoint, it can relieve tension caused by strained forehead muscles that compensate for sagging eyelids.
Additionally, improved vision is a key benefit when excess skin is removed from the eye area. This can be particularly impactful if you’ve been dealing with functional symptoms like blurred vision or difficulty reading.
A Plastic Surgeon Explains: What to Expect During the Procedure
Your journey begins with a consultation and evaluation with Dr. Casso. During this visit, he will assess your eye area, facial structure, and discuss your treatment options and aesthetic goals.
Once you’re cleared for surgery, the procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. Some cases may involve sedation or general anesthesia depending on your comfort and medical history.
Dr. Casso will make small incisions along the natural eyelid creases to remove excess skin and fatty tissue. This approach minimizes visible scarring and allows for precise reshaping of the upper eyelid. Once the necessary tissue removal is complete, the incisions are closed with fine stitches.
Some patients may choose to combine upper blepharoplasty with a brow lift or even a facelift for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Smooth Recovery and Healing Process
Recovery from eyelid surgery is relatively quick compared to many other cosmetic procedures. Most patients can return to normal activities within 7 to 10 days. You’ll be given detailed operative care instructions following your plastic surgery.
These will include how to clean the area, use prescribed eye drops, and reduce swelling with cold compresses. Avoiding strenuous activities, makeup, and sun exposure is essential during the early stages of healing.
Mild swelling and bruising around the eyes is normal but tends to subside within the first week. Stitches are usually removed within 5 to 7 days. The healing process continues over the next several weeks, and you’ll gradually notice the full results taking shape. Most of our patients experience a smooth recovery with minimal discomfort.
Long-Term Results and Youthful Appearance
The results of upper blepharoplasty are long-lasting, particularly when performed by Dr. Casso. The removal of excess skin and reshaping of the upper eyelid creates a more youthful and alert look that aligns with your natural facial features.
Our patients are relieved when the hooded effect is gone and they enjoy the benefits for years, especially when combined with good skincare and sun protection habits.
In some cases, upper blepharoplasty may also improve the symmetry of the face, enhancing the overall balance of your facial plastic structure.
If sagging eyelids return over time due to continued aging, a secondary treatment can be considered, though most people find one procedure sufficient for long-term improvement.
Is Upper Blepharoplasty Right for You?
If you’re dealing with sagging eyelids, impaired vision, tired expression or other related aesthetic concerns, upper blepharoplasty could be the ideal solution.
This surgical procedure is suitable for adults with good overall health and realistic expectations. Whether your concerns are cosmetic, functional, or both, eyelid surgery can help you reclaim a more youthful appearance and improve your day-to-day comfort.
Some people also consider the procedure as part of a larger facial rejuvenation plan, which may include rhinoplasty or other cosmetic treatments.
Your Next Step
The first step in achieving a more refreshed, youthful look is a professional evaluation. Every face is different, and so is every treatment plan. Dr. Casso will guide you through your options, assess your eyelid creases, skin condition, and discuss the function of your eyes and aesthetic goals.
Whether your concern is excess skin, droopy eyelids, or the overall appearance of your face, the right treatment can restore both confidence and comfort.
Upper blepharoplasty is more than just a cosmetic procedure—it’s a way to help your outer appearance reflect how vibrant and awake you feel inside. If hooded eyelids are interfering with your vision, confidence, or quality of life, don’t wait to explore your options.
