Do you see droopy skin around your eyes in the mirror? Sagging eyelids can lead to both functional and cosmetic issues. In this article, you’ll learn about how PDO threads can help fix hooded eyelids. You’ll also find details about the procedure, clinical outcomes, potential risks, and aftercare steps.
What Causes Hooded Eyelids and How They Progress
Hooded eyelids happen when extra skin folds down from the brow bone. This creates a partially hidden look that affects how your eyes work and look.
Loss of Skin Elasticity and Collagen
The skin around your eyes undergoes the most significant changes with age. Your body starts producing less collagen and elastin fibers after you turn 40. These proteins are used to keep your skin firm and tight.
Your upper eyelid skin loses its bounce and starts to sag because of this natural process. The skin gets thinner and stretches more easily every time you blink or move your face. This creates folds that hang over your eye’s natural crease.
Sun exposure and smoking can accelerate this process by damaging skin cells and breaking down important supporting structures.
Orbital Fat Herniation and Muscle Laxity
Changes in fat distribution and muscle tone are the foundations of hooded eyelids. Your eyeball sits in a cushion of orbital fat that keeps it stable when moving. The Tenon capsule, a thin elastic membrane, holds this fat in place.
This supporting membrane gets weaker as you age or if you’re injured. The orbital fat pushes forward and creates puffiness, which adds to the hooded look. This usually happens in the outer upper corner of your eye, but it can affect other areas, too. The muscles that lift your eyelids stretch and weaken over time.
Genetic Factors
Some people are born with hooded eyelids. If you have genetic hooded eyelids, you’ll notice them early in life. They’re part of your natural eye shape and might run in your family. Your chances of having hooded eyes are higher if your parents have them. Genetic hooded eyes stay about the same when you’re young, but might become more noticeable with age.
PDO Thread Eyelid Lift: A Minimally Invasive Option
Hooded eyelids aren’t usually a medical problem, but some people don’t care for the aesthetic of droopy eyelids. PDO thread lifts give those people a way to change their appearance while avoiding surgery.
What is a PDO Thread Eyelid Lift?
The procedure uses biodegradable polydioxanone (PDO) threads that doctors place under your skin with tiny needles after applying local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. The threads lift and reposition your facial tissues immediately. These threads have tiny “cogs” or barbs that grab your tissue and let doctors position your skin exactly where they want it.
Your body sees these threads as foreign objects and starts making more collagen in these areas. This extra collagen really helps because your body’s natural collagen production slows down as you age, which can contribute to droopy eyelids.
The procedure takes only 30 to 45 minutes; that’s why people call it the “lunchtime facelift”. Plus, your eyes look better right away. Specifically, the eyes look more open and fresh.
Post-procedure Care Instructions
Ice pack application helps manage swelling after the procedure. You might also receive a prescription for antibiotics like amoxicillin with clavulanic acid for about five days to prevent infection.
Key aftercare measures include:
- Avoiding wide-mouth movements for 48 hours.
- No smoking or vigorous exercise for one week.
- No facial massage for two weeks.
- Sleeping with your head slightly elevated to reduce swelling.
You can resume most daily activities soon after the procedure. However, some restrictions might stay in place for one to two weeks to ensure the best results.
Expected Results and Longevity of Effects
PDO thread eyelid lifts are gifts that keep on giving. The threads dissolve after about six months, but the collagen framework they create keeps working longer. Over the next few weeks, your body makes even more collagen, improving your skin’s bounce and structure. Most people see their best results one to three months after treatment when collagen production peaks.
Results usually last 12 to 18 months, but everyone is different. Several things affect how long it lasts:
- Your skin’s thickness and elasticity
- Your age (younger skin often holds results longer)
- Your lifestyle choices (sun exposure or smoking, for example)
- The technique and thread type
Risks, Side Effects, and Aftercare Tips
PDO thread lifts, like other aesthetic procedures, need specific aftercare and might have complications. You must understand everything in hooded eyelid correction to get the best results.
Thread Displacement and How to Prevent It
Thread displacement happens when inserted threads move from their original position and might cause skin puckering or dimpling. The best way to prevent displacement is to limit facial movements for at least one week after the procedure. This means avoiding wide yawning, excessive laughing, and eating hard foods. Also, your thread positioning will stay proper if you sleep on your back with your head raised for three to five nights.
Managing Bruising and Swelling Post-procedure
Bruising and swelling are the most common side effects that usually go away within a week. You should apply cold compresses intermittently during the first 24 to 48 hours. Make sure to wrap them in a soft cloth to protect your skin. Sleeping with your head raised will reduce fluid buildup. While over-the-counter pain relievers can help, ask your Beauty Vault provider first since some medications might affect your healing.
When to Avoid Thread Lift for Hooded Eyelid Correction
Thread lifts aren’t right for everyone. You should look at other options if you have severe skin laxity, active skin infections, blood-clotting disorders, or autoimmune conditions. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding need to wait. People with very thin skin or a history of keloid scarring should be careful, too. Call the Beauty Vault team right away if you notice fever, swelling that lasts over 48 hours, or any discharge where you had the treatment.
Ask the Beauty Vault Team About PDO Thread Lifts for Hooded or Droopy Eyes
PDO thread lifts are a great way to get hooded eyelid correction without traditional surgery. However, your facial features, personal goals, and the severity of your hooded eyelids all play a role in determining if this treatment will work. The Beauty Vault team in West Hollywood can help you decide if PDO threads match your expectations, so call them today at (323) 800-6770 or fill out a contact form to learn more.
FAQs
Q1. Can PDO threads effectively lift hooded eyes?
PDO threads can provide a noticeable lift for hooded eyes. The procedure works by inserting biodegradable threads beneath the skin, which both mechanically lift the tissue and stimulate collagen production. This can create a more open and youthful eye appearance, especially for those with mild to moderate sagging.
Q2. What are the typical results and longevity of a PDO thread eyelid lift?
Results from a PDO thread eyelid lift are usually visible immediately after the procedure, with continued improvement over the following weeks as collagen production increases. The effects typically last between 12 to 18 months, depending on factors such as age, skin quality, and lifestyle. Many patients report high satisfaction rates, particularly in terms of wrinkle reduction and improved skin texture.
Q3. Are there any risks or side effects associated with PDO thread lifts for hooded eyes?
Like any cosmetic procedure, PDO thread lifts carry some risks. Common side effects include temporary bruising and swelling. There’s also a risk of thread displacement, which can cause skin puckering. More serious complications are rare but can include infection or allergic reactions. It’s crucial to follow post-procedure care instructions to minimize these risks.
Q4. Who is an ideal candidate for a PDO thread eyelid lift?
Ideal candidates for PDO thread eyelid lifts are typically in their late 30s to early 50s with mild to moderate eyelid sagging. The procedure is best suited for those seeking subtle improvements without surgery. However, it may not be appropriate for individuals with severe skin laxity, certain medical conditions, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. A consultation with a qualified practitioner is essential to determine if this treatment is suitable for your specific situation.
