If it doesn’t affect your vision, your doctor may decide not to treat it.


The medical term, ptosis, refers to the drooping of the upper eyelids when it is markedly obvious and uncharacteristic for the person in question. Ptosis may occur because the levator muscle's attachment to the lid is weakening with age. Anyone can get droopy eyelids, and there aren’t substantial differences in prevalence between men and women or between ethnicities. Ptosis may be one of the symptoms of this disease.
Experts aren't sure exactly why this is, though the types of instruments and anesthesia used by the surgeons may play a role. A number of things can cause your eyelids to droop, a condition known as ptosis. It’s a rare syndrome that happens when something (a stroke or a tumor, for example) damages the nerve that controls one of the muscles connected to eyelid movement. It may disrupt vision or have a more noticeable impact on appearance in other cases. Your doctor may recommend ptosis surgery. It results…, Here is a detailed review of 8 nutrients that can help maintain proper eye function, protect your eyes from damage and fight the negative effects of…, The symptoms of stroke can come on suddenly and without warning. This is a type of connective tissue disease where the skin on the upper or lower eyelid loses its elasticity so that it hangs down in folds and gives the impression of droopy eyes. Previous eye surgery – ptosis may occur as a complication following cataract surgery. A 2015 study from the Aesthetic Surgery Journal notes that there is no link to lifestyle factors including smoking, alcohol use, or body mass index. This will lift the eyelid up into the desired position. In most cases, the problem is cosmetic, and elective surgery can restore at least some of your eyelids’ youthful vigor if you choose. Ptosis can be present at birth, but people can also acquire it later in life due to: Ptosis does not lead to any health issues, in most cases, and is easily manageable. Sign Up to Receive Our Free Coroanvirus Newsletter. Eye fatigue may also occur due to the effort needed to keep the eyes open. Aging causes stretching of the levator muscle of the eye and stretching and wrinkling of the skin around the eyes. Treat it early in childhood so it doesn't cause long-term vision loss. Stay in your living room and still spike your heart rate. Just knowing the symptoms and getting a regular eye exam can help you fight the disorder. Eyelid drooping isn’t usually harmful to your health. There may be associated problems with eye movement and other symptoms include conditions with the muscles of the heart and throat. Other factors, such as eye trauma, surgery, or the development of muscular and nerve damage, can also be difficult to avoid. Droopy eyes may be a naturally occurring feature in some people, creating a characteristic ‘sleepy eye’ look.

Disease or injury. Ptosis has been reported after cataract, corneal, refractive (like Lasik), and glaucoma surgery.

Eyelid movement is controlled primarily by three muscles, the most important of which is the levator muscle. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Sometimes, it comes with age. RELATED: 11 Triggers of Dry Eye, and What to Do About Them. Even babies who are born with the condition can undergo simple surgery and look forward to a life with normal vision. They may perform a slit lamp exam so that your doctor can take a close look at your eye with the help of high-intensity light. Injections of Botox and other fillers can tighten the skin of the eyelids, and there are even eye glasses with “crutches” to prop up the top eyelid. The main sign: One or both eyelids droop. If your eyelid blocks your vision, you’ll need medical treatment. Description The eyelids serve to protect and lubricate the outer eye. Some people raise their eyebrows in order to lift the lid slightly and therefore may appear to be frowning. The aim of this surgery is typically to tighten the levator muscle or repair the levator aponeurosis, which can help raise the eyelid. Nerve Disorders. “It’s basically a sling to hold the eyelid up,” says Dr. Rizzuto. Sinking nose can also contribute to the sagging of the brows. Clean out expired products and clutter to make way for a healthier you. ", American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus: "Ptosis.". Ptosis can cause problems when you drive, read, or even walk up and down stairs. You could get ptosis as an adult when the nerves that control your eyelid muscles are damaged.

You can get it several ways. A doctor should investigate persistent droopy eyelid to make sure there are no underlying conditions. An example of acquired ptosis is when the natural aging processes weaken the eyelid muscles.

Damage to the nerves that control the muscles around the eyes can also cause droopy eyelids to occur. Diagnosis of ptosis is usually made by observing the drooping eyelid. This includes tumors anywhere along the nerves or along the arteries that supply the eye, or in the muscles controlling your eye. Sometimes, babies are born with it. Other conditions such as certain skin disorders, injury to the eye and surrounding tissues, thyroid disease or chronic renal disease may also be involved. For children who have ptosis, doctors sometimes recommend surgery to prevent the onset of lazy eye (amblyopia). Congenital ptosis can impair vision and cause amblyopia, sometimes known as lazy eye. Finding the cause of the condition will require testing for any of the illnesses or injuries known to have this effect. This should typically stop the eyelids from sagging. Structural abnormality in the brain: An aneurysm, meaning an enlarged portion of a blood vessel, can compress a major nerve that supplies the eye and eyelid (the oculomotor nerve). Children who are born with a ptosis usually tilt their head back in an effort to see under the obstruction. RELATED: 11 Reasons Your Vision Is Blurry–and What to Do About It.