What Is Ptosis? Symptoms & Treatment Options
Droopy eyelids can be a symptom of more significant medical issues, and the underlying illness may need to be treated along with the eyelids. Children with severe ptosis might benefit from corrective surgery. Some people develop ptosis as they age because their brain or nerves don’t send the right signals to their eyelid-lifting muscles. Other people might have it since birth due to a problem with eye movement or other conditions.
Understand the Definition of Ptosis in Eye Health
Ptosis is when the upper eyelid droops and partially covers the eye’s pupil. It may be mild and barely noticeable, or it can become severe and interfere with normal vision. The problem affects children and adults and can be present at birth (congenital ptosis) or develop later in life (acquired ptosis).
Treatment options depend on the severity of the drooping and whether an illness or aging causes it. For example, if congenital ptosis is a concern because it can lead to other problems such as lazy eye (amblyopia), your child’s healthcare provider may recommend eyelid surgery early. Moreover, you must understand how long it takes to recover from eyelid surgery.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing ptosis. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and take a medical history to determine the cause of your ptosis. They will also perform a comprehensive eye exam to evaluate the position and movement of your eyelids. Your doctor may also order blood or imaging tests to check for possible illnesses contributing to ptosis. Proactively seeking medical advice can ensure the best possible outcome for your condition.
Learn About the Causes of Eyelid Drooping
Many cases of ptosis are present from birth (congenital). It happens when the primary eyelid muscle weakens or becomes overstretched. Aging, excessive eye rubbing, and long-term contact lens wear can also cause it. Sometimes, ptosis develops after cataracts or other surgeries on the eyes. Some types of nerve problems, such as Horner syndrome and third nerve palsy, can also cause ptosis.
Children with ptosis might have to tilt their heads up more often than other kids, affecting their posture and development. They may need to treat their ptosis before school age to avoid vision problems and prevent amblyopia (lazy eye).
An ophthalmologist, a doctor specializing in eye and vision care, can diagnose ptosis with an exam, blood tests, or imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs. They can also prescribe medicine that helps the elevator muscle work better, such as Tensilon or edrophonium. An ophthalmologist might recommend surgery if an underlying problem is causing your ptosis.
Discover the Different Types of Ptosis Conditions
Ptosis can be present from birth (congenital) or can develop later in life (acquired). Five main types of acquired ptosis include myogenic, aponeurotic, neurogenic, mechanical, and traumatic. Children with severe ptosis that is not treated may experience delays in visual development. Their eye healthcare provider may recommend surgery so they can see out of the eye correctly.
- The drooping of the upper eyelid can be slight, moderate, or severe and may completely cover the pupil.
- Some people with ptosis do not notice any problems with their vision or appearance and do not need treatment.
- Others may need to tilt their head back or lift their eyelids with their hand to see.
- This can cause a tired look or difficulty reading, driving, or participating in sports.
- Other symptoms of ptosis may include uneven or blurry vision and an inability to blink correctly.
- Some ptosis comes and goes depending on the cause, which is called intermittent ptosis.
Explore the Common Symptoms of Eyelid Ptosis
The most apparent symptom of ptosis is drooping eyelids. These can be mild, with the lid only partly covering the pupil, or severe, with the edge of the upper eyelid completely blocking vision. Other symptoms of a particular cause of ptosis are often present, including astigmatism, lazy eye (amblyopia), or problems with balance and posture.
For children who have congenital ptosis, their healthcare provider may choose to watch the problem and see if it improves as they grow. They’ll need to have regular exams so that they don’t experience a delay in developing their vision.
In adults, the treatment usually involves surgery to strengthen or remove extra skin from around the eyelid. This is usually done as an outpatient procedure. Young children are generally put under general anesthesia, and older children or adults may be given twilight anesthesia. Successful treatment can bring significant relief, improved appearance, restoration, and a boost in confidence.
Discover Treatment Options for Ptosis Correction
Risks of Ptosis Surgery
Ptosis is not dangerous or life-threatening, but it can make people feel self-conscious about their appearance. Depending on its severity, it can also affect children’s vision and development. Children with droopy upper eyelids may have to tilt their heads back and arch their eyebrows to see, which can strain the neck muscles.
- This can also lead to tiredness of the forehead and chin muscles.
- In adults, ptosis can be caused by weakness in the muscle that raises the drooping eyelid or by loss of tissue around the eyes.
- It can be present at birth (Congenital Ptosis) or develop gradually as we age.
The most common treatment for ptosis involves tightening the levator muscle or attaching it to other muscles that lift the eyelid. The surgery usually takes about 45 to 90 minutes, and we use local anesthesia or sedation for comfort. After the procedure, you can expect minor swelling and bruising, which should subside within a few weeks. Your doctor will provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth and safe recovery.
Conclusion
Ptosis is a condition that causes the upper eyelid to droop, potentially affecting vision and appearance. If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of ptosis, it’s crucial to consult an eye care specialist. These professionals are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions, including ptosis, and can provide personalized treatment plans to help you manage the condition effectively.
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Call Bagan Strinden Vision for Ptosis Treatment
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