Eyelid Ptosis (Ptosis)
This page will help answer your questions.
What Is Eyelid Ptosis?
Eyelid ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid droops, with the edge of the eyelid resting lower than usual. In severe cases, the drooping eyelid can cover all or part of the pupil, interfering with vision.
What Are the Causes of Eyelid Ptosis?
There are various conditions that can cause eyelid ptosis.
- Some causes of congenital eyelid ptosis include:
- Muscular Ptosis: This type of ptosis is associated with abnormal development of the levator muscle of the eyelid and is the most common cause of congenital eyelid ptosis.
- Horner’s Syndrome: A rare neurological disorder that causes mild ptosis in one eye. The affected eye may also have a smaller pupil, and its iris may differ in color compared to the other eye.
Third Cranial Nerve Palsy: A neurological condition that causes eyelid ptosis, double vision, eye deviation (down and outward), and, in some cases, pupil dilation.
- Some causes of acquired eyelid ptosis include:
- Aponeurotic Ptosis: Often associated with aging, eye surgery, or trauma, due to weakened and stretched muscles.
- Myasthenia Gravis: An autoimmunedisorder that causes musclefatigue and weakness, typicallyworsening by the endof the day.
- Acquired Third Nerve Palsy: Often linked to diabetes or high blood pressure. However, third nerve palsy involving pupil dilation may indicate a serious problem, such as a tumor or brain aneurysm.
- Accident Injuries: These can damage the eyelid muscles or nerves, leading to eyelid ptosis.
- Eyelid Tumors: Tumors such asneurofibroma may cause eyelid ptosis.
Cataract Surgery: Cataract surgery can cause post-operative eyelid ptosis.
How to Deal With Eyelid Ptosis: Tips to Help You Cope With Eyelid Ptosis
Treatment usually depends on how well the eyelid muscles function. If ptosis doesn’t affect vision and the patient is not concerned about appearance, a doctor may recommend no treatment at all.
If ptosis causes vision problems, appearance concerns, or both, treatment may be necessary. The type of treatment depends on whether the ptosis is due to disease, accidental injury, or aging. Treatment for age-related ptosis often involves surgery.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If ptosis affects your field of vision, or if the drooping is new and was not previously present, it is advisable to see a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Arethe Complications of EyelidPtosis?
