One of my eyelids closed more than the other? (Photo)

Question

I've recently noticed my right eyelid is closed more than my left. I can also feel this, like when I blink, my right eyelid almost feels kind of sluggish, and I can feel it a lot easier than I can my left eyelid if that makes sense. If I look up and right, it feels like it's putting strain on my right eye and my vision goes ever so slightly doubled in the top right corner. 1. How noticeable would you say it is to just a passing eye? 2. Are there any options I have to try and help this?

Peter Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

The condition about which you are asking is called eyelid ptosis.  The first picture you share is not very helpful, because the eyelids must be evaluated in neutral primary gaze. Also, what you are calling your "right" eyelid, is, in fact, your left eyelid, because it is on the left side of your face, even though you see its reflection in the mirror on the right.  The second picture is better, but, it reveals something interesting: although the left eyelid appears to be slightly lower than right, your left eye also appears to be somewhat larger than your right. This is not an uncommon situation, but one of which you must be aware when evaluating your eyes and eyelids. In brief, the degree of ptosis is determined by measuring the MRD-1, which is the distance from the center of the lid margin of the upper eyelid to the light reflex on the cornea in primary gaze.  In most cases, an MRD-1 of 4-5mm is considered normal.  The second picture of your series, suggests the MRD-1 of your left eye is pretty close to that, but you may have a slight degree of mild ptosis on the left side. The slight asymmetry of your upper eyelids could be corrected by slightly asymmetric skin excisions on both sides, and a conservative ptosis correction on the left side. However, it is important for you to understand, that both your upper eyelids, and your eyes themselves, are asymmetric, and will remain asymmetric to some degree postoperatively, even after the most careful surgery.  It does not sound like you are experiencing and functional ocular difficulties, so the issue for you is purely an aesthetic one.  You would best be served by seeing an ophthalmologist, or plastic surgeon who specializes in eyelid surgery so that your MRD-1, lid excursion, visual fields, etc. can be formally and accurately measured, and then decision making about surgery can proceed from there.

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and posting your photos. You have a mild degree of ptosis which is not significant enough for surgery. For comprehensive evaluation, make an appointment with an Oculoplastic Surgeon. If the ptosis worsens, there are a few surgical techniques to treat it. Good luck,

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

Your appearance of eyelid symmetry originates from the asymmetry in the size of your eye and also the actual position of the eyelid on the eye.  When an eyelid droops, that is called eyelid ptosis.  There are stepwise aggressive techniques that can be used to elevate the position of the eyelid from a simple sutures to adjust the eyelid or a muscle advancement for the very droopy eyelid.  Some asymmetry is normal and is not commonly seen.. such as yours!  Best Wishes!!

One of my eyelids closed more than the other? (Photo)

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

One of my eyelids closed more than the other? (Photo)

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.