Droopy Eyelids
Lift and rejuvenate heavy and drooping eyelids with ptosis treatment.
I can highly recommend both him and his clinic team. My experience from start to finish was professional friendly and not at any point did a worry or feel nervous.
Thank you
Mr Ahmad has a real artistic eye, and that made all the difference. He didn’t just focus on changing my nose, but on how it would harmonise with the rest of my features. The result is a subtle, cute nose that genuinely suits my face.
I also really appreciated how straightforward and manageable the aftercare was—it made the whole process feel much less overwhelming. Overall, I feel more confident, more comfortable in myself, and I can finally breathe properly. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome.
I have lost two close relatives to malignant melanoma. I was referred on by my GP for ‘ urgent skin cancer assessment’ of a suspicious mark on my face. NHS. It was a two week wait for a photo then a predicted 3 week wait for a result sent to me by text. With fair Scots skin and family history, l struggled with what would be a 5 week wait just for a diagnosis.
I made an appointment at the clinic. I got an appointment and a result within days. Thankfully negative. The result was told to me by a person, not the text message the NHS promised. I also got skin care advice and a prescription for previously undetected sun damage which l greatly appreciate. I was treated with utmost kindness and courtesy. I am so grateful that l heard your radio advert offering this service.
Preparation for the surgery could have been more thorough. I was unaware of extent of recovery timeline and importantly, what this could look like. I had swelling for well over two years and even now the tip is still refining. I understand now how complex a surgery this is.
In hindsight I wish Mr Ahmad, like the majority of other surgeons as I understand, had provided an image or drawing of what he had in mind prior to the surgery.
The early recovery was hard, I had a lot of swelling, bruising, and looked completely unrecognisable. This was somewhat expected though did seem at the more severe end of the scale. The surgery took 4.5 hours.
Following the surgery I was left with an asymmetrical residual hump, depression through centre of nose, retracted nostrils and a large scar on one nostril through error of Mr Ahmad as I understand, though he was never forthcoming in explaining reasoning. I felt it had a ‘done’ look and could have been more natural. After the surgery, as I was not entirely happy with the result given the above, and ironically at this stage and not before, Mr Ahmad suggested therapy or that I may have body dysmorphia, to correct the relationship with my nose. Therapy was not offered prior to the surgery of course. I felt very much gaslit and on meeting with other practitioners concerns were understood and addressed.
Another insensitive moment came when I mentioned perhaps spending too much time on Instagram, where content served to me is focused on appearance. Mr Ahmad replied they liked Instagram, alluding to it’s how they make their money.
Mr Ahmad offered to correct the scar on my nostril, which improved it somewhat though not entirely it is still visible. Ironically during the procedure Mr Ahmad nearly nipped my lip with the scissors, much to the nurse’s surprise. Not the comforting attention to detail of a surgeon.
He has done an amazing job on two vivid scars I had on my face.
Nikki the Practice Manager is great, a thoroughly professional and welcoming Clinic. I would recommend them to anyone.
I've had three deep face peels, scar revision on some deep acne scars and skin consultations with him and his staff and my skin now looks the best it has for years after suffering from sun damaged, acne prone skin for a long time I never imagined my skin could look so good.
I've been told the best products to use for my skin type etc.
Highly recommend Mr Ahmad and Cambridge Clear Beauty for all your skin issues and him and all of his staff are highly professional, friendly people who always make you feel welcome.
From the very beginning, Mr Ahmad took the time to listen carefully and make detailed notes, even producing incredibly precise drawings to capture what we discussed. His insights into what would suit my face best were invaluable, and it’s clear that his experience and knowledge guided the outcome.
The results have been outstanding. My nose has healed beautifully, with a natural appearance that feels completely in harmony with my features. Most importantly, I can now breathe freely through both nostrils, which has made a huge difference to my day-to-day life—improving sleep, exercise, and overall wellbeing.
What impressed me further was that Mr Ahmad was able to achieve this through a closed approach, which I understand is particularly challenging, but a testament to his years of expertise and recognition in the field.
Equally, the team around him were fantastic throughout the process. I always felt reassured, supported, and in safe hands at every stage of my treatment.
I am absolutely delighted with the outcome and would wholeheartedly recommend Mr Ahmad. His skill, professionalism, and care have been exceptional.
I did have extensive bruising that was explained by Mr Ahmad would happen. My top eyelids healed fairly quickly but the bottom eyebags are more difficult. Mr Ahmad and Nikki have always answered my questions and have always seen me regularly or when iv had a worry and eased my concerns.
Overall, my eyes are healing now, and after 3 months are doing well and looking much better. Mr Ahmad told me it could take up to a year for my healing process to end.
As it is an invasive surgery I can understand why, but thankfully its getting there and I'm pleased with how my results are starting to look.
I trust Mr Ahmad 100% as he has always been very professional and kind.
Led by Mr Ahmad
Meet Mr Tariq Ahmad Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
FRCS & FRCS(Plast)
This content has been medically reviewed by Mr Tariq Ahmad
If you’ve noticed your upper eyelids feeling heavy, excess skin hooding over your eyelashes or a tired appearance even when you’re well-rested, you’re likely experiencing droopy eyelids, medically known as ptosis or eyelid laxity. This happens when the muscles that lift the eyelid weaken, excess skin accumulates on the upper lid, and the delicate tissue around the eyes loses elasticity.
Ptosis, which can affect one or both upper eyelids, is a common concern among individuals of all ages. Whilst drooping eyelids can be frustrating and affect both appearance and vision, effective treatment is available. At Cambridge Clear Beauty, we offer effective ptosis treatment to address this condition.
What are Droopy Eyelids?
Droopy eyelids, medically referred to as ptosis or dermatochalasis depending on the cause, occur when the upper eyelid skin becomes loose and sags over the eye. This can appear as excess, hooded skin that folds over the natural eyelid crease. This heavy appearance can make the eyes look smaller or tired, or, in more severe cases, cause eyelid tissue to droop low enough to partially obstruct vision.
Mild drooping may simply create a heavier-looking upper eyelid, whilst advanced cases result in significant skin overhang that can interfere with peripheral vision and make everyday activities like reading or driving more difficult. The condition can affect one eye (unilateral ptosis) or both eyes (bilateral ptosis), though it’s more common for both eyelids to be affected to varying degrees.
What Causes Droopy Eyelids?
Droopy eyelids result from a combination of natural ageing processes, muscle weakening, genetic predisposition and environmental factors that compromise the delicate structures around the eyes.
Natural Ageing and Collagen Loss
As we age, the production of collagen and elastin, which keep eyelid skin firm and elastic, gradually declines. The eyelid skin is exceptionally thin and delicate, making it particularly vulnerable. As collagen depletes and the skin thins further, excess tissue accumulates and begins to droop over the eye, creating the characteristic hooded appearance.
Weakening of the Levator Muscle
The levator muscle lifts the upper eyelid and keeps it in its proper position. With age, this muscle can weaken, stretch or even partially detach from the eyelid, reducing its ability to hold the lid open. When the levator muscle loses tone, the eyelid droops, resulting in ptosis.
Genetics and Eyelid Anatomy
Some people are genetically predisposed to developing droopy eyelids earlier or more severely than others. Natural eyelid shape, skin thickness, muscle strength and the rate of collagen depletion vary widely between individuals. Those with naturally thinner eyelid skin, weaker levator muscles or a family history of early eyelid drooping are more likely to experience the same pattern.
Eye Habits
Repeated eye rubbing, heavy makeup application and removal, long-term contact lens use and frequent eyelash extension wear can all stretch the delicate eyelid skin and weaken the levator muscle over time.
Should I Consider Treatment for Droopy Eyelids?
The decision to treat droopy eyelids depends on whether the condition affects your vision, how it impacts your confidence and what you’re looking to achieve.
When Drooping Affects Your Vision
Many people consider treatment when excess eyelid skin begins to obstruct their peripheral or even central vision, making everyday activities like reading, driving or watching television more difficult. If you find yourself raising your eyebrows or tilting your head back to see clearly, or if the drooping causes eyestrain or headaches from constantly working to lift heavy lids, treatment becomes a functional necessity rather than just a aesthetic choice.
When It Affects Your Confidence
Droopy eyelids can make you appear perpetually exhausted, sad or older than you feel, even when you’re well-rested and energetic. If people frequently ask if you’re tired or unwell, or if makeup application has become difficult because there’s no visible eyelid space, these are valid reasons to consider treatment. How the drooping affects your self-perception and confidence matters just as much as any functional concern.
When It Causes Facial Asymmetry
Droopy eyelids don’t always develop symmetrically. It’s common for one eye to droop more noticeably than the other, creating facial asymmetry that can be particularly bothersome. This unevenness may make you appear as though one eye is smaller, one side of your face is more aged, or your expression is unbalanced.
Treatment Option for Droopy Eyelids at Cambridge Clear Beauty
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is the only effective and appropriate treatment for droopy eyelids, whether caused by muscle weakness, excess skin or both.
Upper Eyelid Surgery (Upper Blepharoplasty)
Upper eyelid surgery, also called upper blepharoplasty, corrects drooping by removing excess, sagging skin from the upper eyelids and, when necessary, repairing or tightening the weakened levator muscle. The procedure can be performed on one eyelid if drooping is unilateral or on both eyelids when bilateral ptosis or excess skin is present.
For ptosis involving muscle weakness, the levator muscle is repositioned or tightened during the procedure to restore proper eyelid elevation and symmetry. For dermatochalasis where excess skin is the primary concern, the focus is on precise skin removal to create a smooth, natural-looking upper eyelid contour.
Meet Mr Ahmad
Mr Ahmad is a leading consultant plastic surgeon with more than 25 years of experience in medical aesthetics. He works as a consultant in the NHS and is both the leading surgeon and director for Cambridge Clear Beauty.
Renowned for his artistic eye, technical precision and compassionate approach, he has also received numerous awards throughout his professional career. His commitment to patient care is reflected in his attention to detail, his dedication to safety, and the longstanding trust he has built with patients seeking plastic reconstructive and medical aesthetic surgery.
MA (Oxon) MBBChir (Cantab) FRCS FRCSEd FRCS (Plast)
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
25+ Years Experience
Specialising in facial rejuvenation
100+ Procedures
Successfully performed plastic and non-surgical procedures
Professional Memberships & Accreditations
Risks and potential complications of facelift surgery
While facelift surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, the specific risks vary depending on the type of facelift, the extent of the procedure, and your individual health. Potential risks and complications may include:
- Bruising and swelling
- Infection
- Scarring
- Bleeding or haematoma
- Numbness or changes in skin sensation
- Asymmetry or irregularities in contour as tissues heal
- Nerve injury, which is rare but can affect movement or sensation
Mr Ahmad will discuss these risks with you in detail during your consultation so you can make a fully informed decision about your treatment.
Why Choose Cambridge Clear Beauty for Your Upper Blepharoplasty?
Experience
Mr Ahmad brings over 25 years of experience in facial surgery and medical aesthetic procedures. His expertise ensures procedures are performed using modern techniques with a focus on delivering natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Trust
Every patient receives a fully personalised treatment plan, created after careful assessment and honest discussion about their goals, concerns and expectations. Mr Ahmad’s approach is transparent and informative, ensuring you understand your options and feel empowered in your decision-making.
Patient feedback consistently highlights the positive experience at Cambridge Clear Beauty, and the Clinic’s testimonials demonstrate the trust and reassurance patients find in Mr Ahmad’s expertise and his team’s care.
Our Promise
At Cambridge Clear Beauty, you will be listened to without judgement or pressure, and supported through every stage of your journey. From the moment you book your initial consultation through to your final follow-up appointment, our commitment is to ensure you feel confident, well-cared for and fully informed about the decisions you’re making.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to fix droopy eyelids?
Droopy eyelids can only be corrected through surgical intervention, specifically upper blepharoplasty. The procedure removes excess skin and, when necessary, tightens or repositions the weakened levator muscle. Non-surgical treatments cannot address the structural problems (muscle weakness and excess skin) that cause eyelid drooping.
What causes droopy eyelids?
Droopy eyelids occur when the muscle that lifts the eyelid (the levator) weakens, and excess skin develops on the upper lid. Ageing reduces collagen and elastin, causing the thin eyelid skin to lose firmness and sag, while the levator muscle may stretch or weaken, lowering the eyelid position. Genetics, sun exposure, frequent eye rubbing and long-term contact lens use can accelerate this process.
Can droopy eyelids affect vision?
Yes, moderate to severe droopy eyelids can obstruct peripheral or even central vision, making everyday activities like reading, driving and watching television difficult. As excess skin hoods over the eye, it blocks the upper field of vision, forcing people to raise their eyebrows or tilt their heads back to see clearly. This can cause eyestrain, headaches and fatigue from constantly working to lift heavy lids.
At what age do droopy eyelids typically develop?
Most people begin noticing droopy eyelids in their forties to sixties, though the timeline varies significantly. Some individuals develop early signs in their late thirties due to genetics or thin eyelid skin, whilst others maintain firm eyelids well into their seventies.
How long do results from blepharoplasty last?
Results from upper blepharoplasty typically last 10-15 years or longer, making it one of the longest-lasting facial procedures. Whilst natural ageing continues and some degree of skin laxity may eventually return, the improvement in eyelid position and contour remains significant for many years.
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