Eye shape changing throughout the day
I'm attaching photos from morning, noon, and night.
For the last 3.5 years, my eyelids have been changing shape throughout the day.
Morning: mostly hooded/single eyelids.
Noon: double eyelid starts appearing.
Night: multiple folds/triple eyelid appearance.
The change is significant enough that people often ask if I'm sick or comment that my eyes suddenly look different. It affects my entire facial appearance and has become a major source of distress.
Additional observations:
Wind exposure seems to increase the swelling and eyelid changes.
When I'm sleepy or fatigued, the swelling is usually worse.
Strangely, when I lie down on my bed, the swelling often improves temporarily, but later returns.
This pattern has remained fairly consistent for about 3.5 years.
One thing I'd specifically ask Reddit:
Could this be related to eyelid edema/fluid shifts, allergies, dry eye, meibomian gland dysfunction, blepharitis, lymphatic drainage issues, or a mechanical eyelid problem rather than sinusitis?
Medical background:
History of chronic sinus inflammation (no deviated septum).
Have seen 2 ophthalmologists.
Was told it was related to sinus issues and dry eyes.
Used prescribed medications and dry eye drops.
Even when sinus symptoms improve, the eyelid changes continue.
No lasting improvement from treatment.
Other details:
For years I regularly applied almond oil, coconut oil, and aloe vera gel around my eyelashes and eyelids.
Not sure if that is relevant.
Questions:
What conditions can cause eyelids to change shape this much throughout the day?
Could this be fluid retention, allergies, inflammation, dry eye, blepharitis, ptosis, or something else?
Has anyone experienced eyelids becoming less hooded as the day progresses and developing extra eyelid folds?
What specialist would be most appropriate—oculoplastic surgeon, neuro-ophthalmologist, allergist, or ENT?
Any ideas would be appreciated because this has been going on for years and I still don't have an explanation.