Ptosis

Ptosis is a drooping of the upper eyelid that can partly or completely cover the pupil and, especially in children, may affect the development of vision.

Common symptoms

A lowered upper eyelid, tiredness or aching around the eyes, tilting the head back to see under the lid, and reduced vision if the pupil is covered.

Description

Ptosis can be present from birth, when it is usually caused by an underdeveloped muscle of the upper eyelid, or it can develop later in life due to age-related weakening, nerve problems, injury, or wider medical conditions.

In children, a drooping eyelid that blocks the pupil can prevent the visual system from developing properly and lead to amblyopia, so early assessment is important. In adults, ptosis is often a cosmetic and practical concern, but sudden new drooping can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition and should be checked.

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Options include monitoring, surgery to lift the eyelid, or treatment of an underlying medical condition. Where ptosis has affected a child's vision, additional treatment for amblyopia may also be needed.