Drooping eyelids are not just signs of ageing. It can be because of ptosis, a condition when the upper eyelid droops over the eye. The condition causes the eyelid to cover a part of the pupil and thus obstructing normal vision.
Children and adults both can have ptosis. As one of the leading eye hospitals with some of the best eye specialists on board, we have curated the list of FAQs and their answers on ptosis that you will find helpful:
- What is ptosis of the eye? Droopy eyelid is called ptosis. It can occur due to trauma, age, or various medical disorders. When it affects one eye it is referred to as unilateral and when it affects both eyes it is called bilateral ptosis.
- What causes ptosis in one eye? If just one eyelid droops, it may be a result of a nerve problem. An eye surgery gone wrong could also be the reason for ptosis in one eye.
- What causes ptosis in both the eyes? If both the eyelids are drooping, it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Stroke, brain tumour, or cancer of the nerves or muscles are some of the medical conditions that can lead to ptosis on both the eyes.
- What are the symptoms of ptosis? The main symptom of ptosis is a drooping eyelid. The condition is not painful but it can obstruct the vision. Along with droopy eyelids, the eyes are either extremely dry or watery. The area around the eyes may experience aching, giving a tired look. Those with severe ptosis will have to lift their heads to see better.
- Can children get ptosis? Yes, some children are born with the condition. In infants and children, usually, the cause of ptosis is a nerve problem. Other reasons for children developing ptosis are trauma at birth, eye movement disorders and eyelid tumours. Children who suffer from congenital ptosis may also develop amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye. This disorder can limit their vision. To prevent lazy eye, surgery may be done. If the vision is not affected, surgery can wait till the child turns 3 or 4.
- How is ptosis diagnosed? An eye specialist will likely perform a physical exam. Some eye tests will also be done to find the underlying cause of ptosis.
- Can you fix ptosis? Yes, ptosis can be treated. An eye specialist may recommend surgery to lift up the eyelid in a position that it is not interfering with the vision. To prevent the onset of lazy eye in children due to ptosis, the eye specialist may recommend surgery. Non-surgical treatment options include ptosis crutch prevents drooping by holding the eyelid in place.
Treatment for ptosis
At Disha Eye Hospital, the department of orbit and oculoplasty has a team highly trained eye specialists, oculoplastic and orbital surgeons. We also provide crutch spectacles for rehabilitation of patients with ptosis.