Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid)

Ptosis (Droopy Eyelids)


Ptosis is when the upper eyelid droops over the eye. It can affect one or both eyes and limit, or even completely block, normal vision. With Ptosis, the skin and muscles around your eyes become weaker when the nerves that control your eyelid muscles are damaged. It might follow an injury or be brought on by disease which weakens the muscles and ligaments that raise your eyelids. For adults, Ptosis can cause problems when you drive, read, or even walk up and down stairs.

 

Children can be born with Ptosis and are at risk for developing poor vision with the droopy lid. It is very important that children with ptosis have regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist early in life.


Treatments can include prescription eye drops for some types of ptosis in adults. In most cases, ophthalmologists recommend surgery, for both children and adults, to improve vision as well as cosmetic appearances. This procedure is called Blepharoplasty which removes extra skin and tucks the muscle that lifts the lid, or the doctor may reattach and strengthen that muscle.



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