What is Ptosis?
This is when the upper eyelid droops or falls. It can affect any age but most common in adults. Depending on the severity of the condition, droopy eyelids can reduce vision – this depends on how much it comes across your vision. Ptosis can be permanent but in most cases, it will resolve naturally, with surgery or treatment. Other conditions such as dermatochalasis can cause a similar effect but this is usually due to the skin above the eyelid drooping down over the eye.
Causes of ptosis?
Anyone can get ptosis, however it is more common in older adults, as it can happen during the natural ageing process. The muscle in the eye responsible for lifting the eyelid, stretches as you age, and can cause the eyelid to fall. Some people are born with ptosis, however this is rare. Ptosis can also be caused by trauma, high stress and neurological issues.
Symptoms of ptosis
The main symptom of a droopy eyelid, is that one or both of the upper lids will sag or droop. This can cause other symptoms to develop:
- Loss of vision
- Dry eyes
- Watery eyes
- Pain around the eyes
- Headaches
How do you treat ptosis?
The cause and severity of your droopy eyelid will determine the ptosis treatment but normally surgery can rectify the problem. Surgery for ptosis usually involves first shortening the tendon and muscle that raise your eyelid and then reattaching it to your eyelid using stitches. This will lift your eyelid, remedying your drooping eyelid but also brightening your vision and improving your overall view.
