Ptosis ("P" is silent) is a term used to describe eyelids which partially or completely block vision. Ptosis in children often requires aggressive management in order to allow vision to develop normally.
In adults, the most common type of ptosis is called "involutional ptosis". This condition is due to a stretching or thinning of the muscle responsible for lifting the eyelids called the "levator" (like "elevator "). Many people with this condition are frustrated by the strain of keeping their eyes open particularly when reading. Changing eyeglasses and even undergoing other surgical procedures like cataract surgery does not solve the problem.
If you look in the mirror and your eyes look smaller, you may notice that holding them open with your fingers actually lets you see better.
This 72 year old man complained of headaches at the end of every day from the muscle strain of lifting his eyebrows so that his eyelids would open wider.
After ptosis repair, his vision improved greatly and his quality of life was significantly better.
This 40 year old woman suffered from dry eyes and a chronic medical condition. Chronic rubbing from irritation, weakened her eyelid muscles and caused ptosis.
Ptosis repair surgery added strength to
her weakened eyelid muscles and also improved vision.
Drooping eyelids in adults occur slowly over time and people assume that the eyes get smaller with time. With a procedure which takes less than 1 hour, people are able to see better and even look better.