Lift your vision.
Ptosis is a drooping of the upper eyelid that can affect one or both eyes. In some people it is primarily a cosmetic concern, while in others the eyelid may obstruct the upper field of vision and interfere with everyday activities.
At EyeSurgi Centre, Dr James Chen provides comprehensive assessment and management of ptosis, with treatment tailored to the cause, severity and individual needs of each patient.
What is ptosis?
Ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid sits lower than its normal position. It may affect one eye or both eyes and can vary from a subtle droop to a more significant lowering of the eyelid.
In more pronounced cases, the eyelid may partially cover the pupil and reduce the upper field of vision.
Some people also compensate by raising their eyebrows or tilting their head backwards in an effort to improve their vision.
A comprehensive assessment can help determine the cause of the eyelid droop and whether treatment may be appropriate.
What can cause ptosis?
Ptosis can develop for a number of reasons and may occur gradually or be present from an earlier age.
Age-related changes
Ageing can weaken or stretch the structures responsible for lifting the upper eyelid.
Congenital ptosis
Some people are born with weakness affecting the muscle that raises the eyelid.
Nerve-related causes
Certain neurological conditions can affect the nerves responsible for eyelid movement.
Previous surgery
Changes to the eyelid can occasionally develop following previous eye or eyelid surgery.
Injury
Trauma affecting the eyelid muscles or supporting structures may result in ptosis.
Medical conditions
Certain underlying health conditions can contribute to changes in eyelid position.
Could ptosis be affecting you?
Drooping upper eyelid
One or both upper eyelids may sit noticeably lower than usual.
Reduced upper vision
The eyelid may obstruct part of the upper field of vision.
Heavy or tired eyelids
The eyelids may feel increasingly heavy or tired during the day.
Raising the eyebrows
Some people unconsciously raise their eyebrows to improve their field of vision.
Uneven eyelids
One eyelid may sit noticeably lower than the other.
Everyday activities
Reduced upper vision may make activities such as reading or driving more difficult.
When should I seek treatment for ptosis?
Not every drooping eyelid requires treatment. The most appropriate approach depends on the cause of the ptosis, the degree of eyelid droop and how much it is affecting your vision or quality of life.
Assessment may be appropriate if the eyelid is interfering with your field of vision, causing eye or forehead fatigue, becoming increasingly noticeable, or creating concern about eyelid symmetry.
Dr Chen can assess the eyelid position and function, investigate possible underlying causes and discuss the treatment options that may be appropriate for you.
BOOK A PTOSIS ASSESSMENT →How can treatment help?
Where treatment is appropriate, improving the position of the upper eyelid may provide both functional and cosmetic benefits.
Improved field of vision
Raising a significantly drooping eyelid may improve the upper field of vision.
Reduced visual obstruction
Treatment may reduce the amount of the pupil covered by the upper eyelid.
Reduced forehead strain
Some patients may rely less on raising their eyebrows to compensate for the eyelid position.
Improved eyelid balance
Treatment may provide a more balanced and natural position of the upper eyelids.
Concerned about a drooping eyelid?
A comprehensive assessment can help determine the cause of your ptosis and whether treatment may be appropriate.
BOOK A CONSULTATION →
EyeSurgi Centre
Suite 5, 202 The Entrance Road
Erina NSW 2250