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PTOSIS

DEFINITION OF PTOSIS

Ptosis, also known as droopy eyelid, is a condition where the upper eyelid droops over the eye, partially or completely covering the pupil. It can affect one (unilateral) or both eyes (bilateral) and may be present at birth (congenital) or develop later in life (acquired).

Ptosis can be mild, moderate, or severe, impacting vision and appearance. In severe cases, it can obstruct vision, cause eye strain, and lead to compensatory head tilting or eyebrow lifting.

RISK FACTORS OF PTOSIS

  • Aging Process
  • Neurological Disorders
  • Trauma or Eye Surgery
  • Congenital Genetic Conditions
  • Diabetes and Hypertension

SYMPTOMS

 

                      • The most obvious symptom

                      • The eyelid may cover more of the eye than normal

                      • In severe cases, the lid may cover the pupil, obstructing vision

                          • Partial or complete blockage of the upper field of vision

                          • Difficulty seeing when looking upward or straight ahead

                          • May tilt the head back or raise the eyebrows to try to see better

                          • The drooping lid may interfere with normal blinking and tear distribution

                          • This can lead to excess tearing (epiphora) or dryness, irritation, and redness

                    • Tired or achy eyes after reading or doing close-up work

                    • May occur sooner and with less effort than before

                    • Often worsens later in the day

                      • Chronic raising of the eyebrows or tilting the head backward to compensate for blocked vision can cause forehead strain, headaches, and neck discomfort

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TREATMENT TYPES

  • Mild ptosis not affecting vision

  • Minimal cosmetic concern

  • Stable cases without progression

  • A small device attached to glasses that lifts the drooping eyelid mechanically

              • Removal of excess upper eyelid skin (dermatochalasis) that contributes to the droopy appearance

              • Often performed together with ptosis repair

                    • Most common ptosis surgery for acquired ptosis

                    • Tightens or shortens the levator muscle (the muscle that lifts the eyelid)

                    • Raises the eyelid to a more natural position

    • Minimally invasive technique

    • Used for mild to moderate ptosis with good eyelid muscle function

    • Tightens an internal muscle without external skin incisions

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FAQS

Ptosis is a condition where the upper eyelid droops lower than normal. It can affect one or both eyes and range from mild cosmetic drooping to severe obstruction of vision.

      • Causes of ptosis include:

        • Aging (most common cause; muscle weakness over time)

        • Congenital ptosis (present at birth)

        • Neurological conditions (e.g., myasthenia gravis, third nerve palsy)

        • Eye trauma or previous eye surgery

        • Tumors or growths affecting eyelid nerves or muscles

            • Drooping upper eyelid

            • Obstructed or reduced upper field of vision

            • Eye strain or fatigue

            • Headaches or forehead aches from constantly lifting the eyebrows

            • Asymmetry between the two eyes

            • Increased tearing or dryness

            • In children: abnormal head posture (tilting head back to see)

          • Mild ptosis often poses no health risk.
            However, severe ptosis can block vision and affect daily activities.
            In rare cases, sudden ptosis can indicate serious neurological problems and requires immediate medical evaluation.

          • Diagnosis is made through:

            • Comprehensive eye examination

            • Measurement of eyelid height and function

            • Testing for underlying neurological or muscular causes if needed

            Photographs are often taken to track progression or document medical necessity for surgery.

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