Hooded eyelids are one of the most common reasons for a consultation. Many of those affected describe the same thing: they feel awake, but look tired.
How hooded eyelids develop
Over the years, the skin loses elasticity and the connective tissue becomes weaker. This shows early on the upper eyelid, because the skin there is particularly thin. Excess skin folds over the eyelid crease, sometimes down to the eyelashes. Genetic predisposition also plays a role – some people have pronounced hooded eyelids even at a young age.
When upper eyelid surgery can make sense
- The eyes look smaller and tired
- The skin presses on the eyelashes, eyeshadow smudges
- The eyelid feels heavy, especially in the evening
- In pronounced cases, the upper field of vision is restricted
How the procedure works
Upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is an outpatient procedure that takes no longer than 90 minutes at most. Excess skin is removed, and the incision lies in the natural eyelid crease. The result is visible practically immediately; swelling usually subsides within one to two weeks. You can find detailed information on the eyelid surgery page.
Will health insurance pay?
As a rule, no. If the field of vision is demonstrably restricted, coverage of costs may be possible. An ophthalmological report with a visual field test is usually a prerequisite for this.
Not every heavy eyelid is a hooded eyelid. Sometimes a drooping eyebrow is the cause. This can only be clarified during an examination.
