Ptosis Of The Eyelid2022-03-07T10:10:05+00:00

Ptosis is a drooping or sagging of the upper eyelid, which may affect one eye or both

We can treat this common condition with eyelid surgery

Ptosis is a drooping or sagging of the upper eyelid, which may affect one eye or both

We can treat this common condition with eyelid surgery

Rejuvenate your appearance and see better

Discover more about this condition and how to treat it

Ptosis of the eyelid incidence / prevalence

Ptosis is a drooping or sagging of the upper eyelid, which may affect one eye or both.

Ptosis is the medical name given to the condition of droopy eyelids. It is most common in older people, although it can occur as a congenital disability or an eye injury or disease.

Ageing

The most common cause of ptosis is ageing. As the muscles around the eyes weaken, the upper eyelids may begin to droop.

Congenital ptosis

Occasionally, children can be born with ptosis. Children with this condition often tilt their heads or lift their eyebrows frequently to see properly.

Injury or disease

A head injury, eye trauma or another condition or disease can cause ptosis. This occurs when there is damage to the ‘levator’ muscles that hold the eyelids up, or damage to the nerves that control these muscles.

The main symptom of ptosis is the drooping of the upper eyelids. This can be in just one eye, or it may affect both eyes.

Ptosis generally gives the face a tired or severe appearance. However, it can also result in both dry eyes and watery eyes. This is because the eyelids are no longer functioning effectively to keep the eyes moist.

At its most severe, ptosis can obstruct vision, as the upper eyelid sags so much that it begins to cover the pupil. Many people with severe ptosis find themselves tilting their heads back to speak.

Ptosis can also cause tiredness and aching around the eyes. This is because you are forced to lift the eyebrows to see properly.

An ophthalmologist or optometrist can confirm ptosis by performing an eye examination.

Thankfully, treatment for ptosis is relatively fast and straightforward. Our oculoplastic surgeons specialise in ptosis repair – an operation to correct drooping of the eyelid and restore your normal, youthful appearance.

If you suffer from ptosis, make an appointment with one of our eyelid surgery specialists to discuss your treatment. Children with ptosis should also have regular check-ups and treatment if necessary, as ptosis may cause further vision problems later in life.

Can I prevent ptosis?

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent a drooping eyelid.

Will surgery fix my ptosis?

Yes, there are surgical procedures that can help with the appearance of ptosis. Our surgeons can tell you what would be possible.

Does ptosis hurt?

Typically not, although you can get some tiredness of the eyelid muscles if you are trying to hold your eyelid up all the time.

Does ptosis affect my vision?

If the eyelid is sitting low enough, it may obstruct some of your vision; however, it does not make your vision blurry overall.

Does poor vision or the limitations of glasses or contact lenses hold you back?

Choose the option below that sounds most like you to discover your best solution

Do your glasses and contacts get in your way or make you feel uncomfortable?

Do you feel a bit meh when wearing glasses or when your eyes feel dry from your contact lenses? Perhaps poor vision and the inconvenience of glasses and contacts stops you from participating in certain activities you enjoy or even simply enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes around you. Laser eye surgery could be the answer.

LEARN MORE

Are you struggling with the hassle of reading glasses?

Whether you’re new to reading glasses or have worn them your whole life, it doesn’t take long to notice how annoying they can sometimes be. Before you know it, there’s a pair of readers everywhere you look; around your neck, in your pockets, and in every room of the house. But when you need them, they’re nowhere to be found. Restore your vision (and avoid future cataract surgery too).

LEARN MORE

Is your vision becoming cloudy, blurry and dull or have you been diagnosed with cataracts?

When your glasses are no longer effective, your quality of life is impacted. At first, you might be able to muddle by. But as your vision deteriorates, your ability to function as you normally would is needlessly compromised. With modern cataract surgery, you have the choice to quickly and easily improve your vision (and even reduce your dependence on glasses).

LEARN MORE

We are proud to be associated with top quality private medical insurers

Give us a call to understand how your insurance can help cover your treatment

Gain visual freedom in 3 easy steps

Eye treatment options can be confusing. We’ve made the journey as straightforward as can be

1. Get in touch

The first step is to call us so we can answer any questions we can on the phone. Give our friendly team a call on 0800 99 2020 or request a call back from us.

2. We’ll meet

At your consultation, we’ll diagnose your issues, answer your questions and give you a clear recommendation based on your needs. You’ll confidently leave with a clear understanding of your treatment options.

3. Enjoy clarity

After treatment, people often tell us how pleased they were that they took action when they did. They’re often so glad that they reached out so that we could address their concerns and help them resolve their troublesome eye condition.

Watch the best patient education videos on eye treatment in New Zealand

Get a quick overview of everything you need to know about gaining visual freedom

Additional resources on treating cosmetic eye conditions

Learn more about treating cosmetic eye conditions from authoritative sources. These links will take you off our website

Ptosis: droopy eyelid causes and treatment

Pathologic droopy eyelid, also called ptosis, may occur due to trauma, age, or various medical disorders.

This condition is called unilateral ptosis when it affects one eye and bilateral ptosis when it affects both eyes.

It may come and go or it might be permanent. It can be present at birth, where it’s known as congenital ptosis, or you can develop it later in life, which is known as acquired ptosis.

Depending on the severity of the condition, droopy upper eyelids can block or greatly reduce vision depending on how much it obstructs the pupil.

In most cases, the condition will resolve, either naturally or through medical intervention.

Click here to read more.

OUR LOCATIONS
Our Locations
OUR POPULAR PROCEDURES
TAKE A STEP TO FREEDOM

Discover if you could be free from the hassle of glasses and contacts.

Take the first step by getting your free laser suitability assessment to check if your eyes are suitable and which treatment option is right for your eyes.

© Eye Institute | Privacy and Cookie Policy | Website by LiveseySolar

Go to Top