Droopy Eyelid Education from Eye Surgical Associates

Droopy Eyelid

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Ptosis is a condition where the upper eyelid droops over the eye.

Droopy Eyelid

Ptosis, or upper eyelid droop, can affect one or both eyes. Congenital ptosis is apparent at birth and involutional ptosis develops with age.

Causes of Droopy Eyelid (Ptosis)

After surgery, the upper eyelid is restored to its normal position.

The most common type of adult ptosis occurs when the levator muscle becomes separated from the eyelid. When this happens, the muscle is not able to lift the eyelid or can only lift it partially. The levator muscle can separate as a result of aging, after cataract surgery, other eye surgery or from an injury.
Over time many people develop excess eyelid skin. Eyelid skin is the thinnest skin of the body making it more susceptible to stretching. In the upper eyelid, this stretched skin may limit the field of vision and may produce a sensation of heaviness and a tired appearance. Sometimes people will raise their eyebrows slightly to lift the lid giving them the appearance that they are frowning.

Treatments of Droopy Eyelid (Ptosis)

Treatment, when necessary, is usually the surgical procedure Blepharoplasty. During blepharoplasty the excess skin in the upper eyelids is removed surgically to improve the field of vision, give a more youthful appearance or address other symptoms. When the levator muscle had separated from the lid, reattachment of the muscle can correct the ptosis. Sometimes a small tuck in the lifting muscle and eyelid can lift the lid sufficiently. More severe ptosis requires greater tightening of the levator muscle. The doctors of Eye Surgical Associates will examine your condition to determine your best treatment options. If drooping of the eyes suddenly occurs for no apparent reason, you should seek medical attention. Especially for drooping that occurs after an injury.

Temporary drooping of the eyelid is also known as tired eyes. Getting adequate sleep and not overindulging in alcohol may easily remedy this condition.

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