Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid) Surgery
Ptosis (pronounced “tō-sis”) is the medical term for
drooping of the upper eyelid(s). This lowering of the upper eyelid margin may cause a reduction in the field of vision when
the eyelid either partially or completely obstructs the pupil. Patients with ptosis often have difficulty keeping their eyelids
open. To compensate, they will often arch their eyebrows in an effort to raise the drooping eyelids. In severe cases, people
with ptosis may need to lift their eyelids with their fingers in order to see.
What
causes ptosis?
There are many causes of ptosis including muscular or
neurologic disease, trauma, or simply the natural aging process. As we age, the tendon that attaches the levator muscle to
the eyelid could stretch and cause the eyelid to fall. The levator muscle is the major muscle responsible for elevating the
upper eyelid. Ptosis may also occur following routine lasik or cataract surgery.
Can ptosis be corrected?
There are many
causes of ptosis including muscular or neurologic disease, trauma, or simply the natural aging process. As we age, the tendon
that attaches the levator muscle to the eyelid could stretch and cause the eyelid to fall. The levator muscle is the major
muscle responsible for elevating the upper eyelid. Ptosis may also occur following routine lasik or cataract surgery.
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| Prior to ptosis surgery, eyelids are drooping, partially blocking the patient's vision. |
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| following surgery eyelids are raised, even, and the full visual field is restored. |
