Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid): Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Ptosis or droopy eyelid, it is an eye condition that occurs in both children and adults. It usually affects the upper eyelid, causing it to droop or sag. The condition happens when the levator muscle, which supports eyelid lifting, doesn’t work properly. Ptosis of the eyelid can happen in one or both eyelids and can interfere with your vision, giving you a limited view. This guide will help you understand the causes, types, symptoms and treatment of ptosis.

Ptosis Causes

The causes include:

• Eye injury
• Aging
• Eye surgery
• Eye conditions, such as stye and chalazion
• Neurological issues
• Stroke
• Tumour
• Horner syndrome

Ptosis Types

Ptosis can be majorly categorised into the following two types:

Congenital ptosis: When the condition is present at birth and children are born with it. Most often, congenital ptosis affects both eyelids, however, in some cases, it can affect only one eyelid.

Acquired ptosis: When the condition affects individuals later in life due to weakening of muscles caused by ageing, injury or surgery. According to a study , about 11.5% of adults over 50 years of age have acquired ptosis.

Ptosis Symptoms

The main symptom of ptosis is a droopy lid. Other symptoms include:

• Eye strain
• Limited or blurred vision
• Double vision in severe cases
• Watery eye
• Having to tilt your head or raise your eyebrows frequently to see clearly

Ptosis Treatment

Ptosis correction or treatment depends on the cause and seriousness of your ptosis eye. Your eye care professional can recommend you the best ptosis treatment, which usually involves:

1. Ptosis Correction Surgery

It is usually performed by numbing the affected eyelid using local anaesthesia. You can remain awake; however, you won’t feel pain. The process involves finding and shortening the muscles by making a small cut. The cut is then reattached using stitches. There are some complications associated with ptosis surgery, including:

• Uneven eyelid
• Infection in the wound
• Bleeding from the surgical site

2. Eye Drops

Besides surgery, a prescription eyedrop (oxymetazoline) can also be used as a temporary treatment option. The eye drop stimulates the lid muscle, which causes it to open the eyelid wider. However, it is noteworthy that this drop is not suitable for all forms of ptosis. It is always helpful to consult with Ophthalmologist for recommendations and usage.

Effects of Leaving Ptosis Untreated

The sooner you address ptosis in children, the better. If left untreated, it can cause serious complications, such as:

1. Amblyopia

This condition is also known as lazy eye. Children’s droopy eyelids block their pupils from sending a clear image to the retina. As a result, they lose visual sharpness.

2. Astigmatism

Because of the continuous pressure on the eye, the shape of the cornea can change. This can cause blurry vision.

3. Chin-up position

Children with droopy eyelids chin up and tilt their heads for seeing around, which can lead to headaches, muscle tightening and neck problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer: The advice in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical care or an in-person check-up. Please check with an eyecare professional before purchasing any products or remedies. For information on our article review process, please refer to our Editorial Policy.