Ptosis

Ptosis -- commonly known as Drooping Eyelids -- is caused by a weakness in the muscle tissue of the eyelids (see also Ectropion and Entropion). Ptosis, however, generally affects the upper lid.

Causes of Ptosis

Ptosis is usually age-related; as the tissue ages, the muscles weaken and sag. Ptosis can also be congenital (a non-genetic birth defect) or the result of an injury or disease (stroke, diabetes, brain tumour).

Symptoms of Ptosis

• drooping eyelids (the upper lid or both)
• increased tearing

In severe cases, Ptosis can impair vision.

Treatments of Ptosis

Most cases of Ptosis cannot be treated, though any underlying condition can be targeted directly.

Surgery can be used to correct the drooping in milder cases and may be required in severe cases where vision is impaired. In children, surgery may be necessary to prevent the development of amblyopia (lazy eye).