Ptosis, which refers to a sagging or drooping upper eyelid, can happen at any age. Fortunately, this is mostly a cosmetic defect. However, in more rare circumstances, ptosis can cause functional problems, including partial or complete vision blockage.
Ptosis is treatable by either non-surgical or surgical methods. Its treatment can improve vision while improving cosmetics.
Ptosis in children
Ptosis in children can be congenital. It is often due to issues with the muscle of the upper eyelid. Symptoms of the disorder include drooping and having uneven creases on the upper eyelid.
A guardian could even notice a child do certain things to see better. These include lifting their eyebrow, raising their chin, and tipping back their head. In such a case, guardians must seek help for their child as these movements could lead to chronic neck and head pain.
Children who do not get correction for ptosis could develop other problems such as crossed eyes, astigmatism, eye movement difficulties, and lazy eye. Before a physician recommends ptosis surgery for a child, they look into factors like eyelid high, eye movements, and age.
Whether or not you decide to get surgery for a child with ptosis, doctors recommend that you schedule them for regular check-ups. This will enable your physician to spot any developing problems.
Ptosis in adults
Adults develop ptosis when the muscle of the upper eyelid stretches too much or separates from the eye. This type of damage is often due to aging or eye injuries. In this case, it is essential to get ptosis correction.
Ptosis surgery is a simple outpatient procedure. The physician is only required to apply local anesthesia to your eye to prevent pain. Fortunately, you could go home on the same day of your surgery.
The surgeon will often only make minor alterations to your upper eyelid muscles. However, in severe ptosis, they would need to reattach the muscle and strengthen it.
An alternative to ptosis surgery is a ptosis prop. These props are placed in glasses and can lift your upper eyelid to help you see better. However, they can be uncomfortable and don’t provide a permanent solution.
