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简体中文Droopy eyelids
Age-related (acquired) ptosis occurs when the edge of the upper eyelid falls too low. When the edge of the eyelid falls and covers part of the pupil, it blocks the upper part of your vision. In severe cases it is necessary to tilt one's head back or lift the eyelid with a finger in order to see out from under the drooping lid.
Age-Related Ptosis
In most cases, a drooping upper eyelid results from aging of previously normal structures, including eyelid skin, tendon of the eyelid and brow. Excess skin due to aging can weigh down the eyelid, directly cause vision obstruction or indirectly push down lashes which lead to vision blockage. When the tendon that attaches the “lifting” muscle to the eyelid stretches, the eyelid falls and cause vision obstruction. Lastly low-set brows can push the eyelids down. Most patients who are symptomatic have combination of these mechanisms in various degrees. Surgeries to correct droopy eyelids therefore require accurate assessment of the causes to formulate an appropriate treatment plan.
Surgery to repair ptosis is most commonly performed by an oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Hsu who specializes in diseases affecting the eyelids, lacrimal (tear) system, the orbit (bone cavity around the eye).
Congenital Droopy eyelids
Ptosis is the medical term for drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition that may affect one or both eyes. Ptosis that is present since birth is called congenital ptosis. The ptosis may be mild — in which the lid partially covers the pupil — or severe, in which the lid completely covers the pupil.
Children with significant ptosis may need to tilt their head back into a chin-up position, lift their eyelid with a finger, or raise their eyebrows in an effort to see from under their drooping eyelid(s).
While the cause of congenital ptosis is often unclear, the most common reason is improper development of the levator muscle — the major muscle responsible for elevating the upper eyelid.
Children with congenital ptosis may also have amblyopia (“lazy eye”), strabismus (eyes that are not properly aligned or straight), refractive errors, astigmatism, or blurred vision. In addition, drooping of the eyelid may result in an undesired facial appearance.
Treating Congenital Droopy eyelids
Congenital ptosis is treated surgically, with the specific operation based on the severity of the ptosis and the strength of the levator muscle. If the ptosis is not severe, surgery is generally performed when the child is between 3 and 5 years of age (the “pre-school” years). However, when the ptosis interferes with the child's vision, surgery is performed at an earlier age to allow proper visual development.
Concerned About Drooping Eyelids?
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