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Droopy eyelids (ptosis) occur when the edge of the upper eyelid that contains the lashes falls too low. When the edge of the eyelid falls and covers part of the pupil, it blocks the upper part of your vision. Ptosis is the medical term for drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition that may affect one or both eyes. In severe cases it is necessary to tilt one's head back or lift the eyelid with a finger in order to see out from under the drooping lid. Droopy eyelid could result from congenital or acquired causes.
In most cases, a drooping upper eyelid results from aging of previously normal structures.
The muscle that lifts the eyelid has normal strength. It is not uncommon for one to develop a droopy upper eyelid following cataract surgery.
Ptosis that is present since birth is called congenital ptosis. While the cause of congenital ptosis is often unclear, the most common reason is improper development of the levator muscle. Children with congenital ptosis may also have amblyopia ("lazy eye"), strabismus (eyes that are not properly aligned or straight), refractive errors, and or unpleasant facial appearance.
Treatment
Surgery to repair ptosis is most commonly performed by ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgeons who specialize in disease and conditions affecting the eyelids, lacrimal (tear) system, the orbit (bone cavity around the eye), and adjacent facial structures.
If the congenital ptosis is not severe, surgery is generally performed when the child is between 3 and 5 years of age (the "pre-school" years). However, when the ptosis interferes with the child's vision, surgery is performed at an earlier age to allow proper visual development.
Acquired ptosis repair is usually accompanied with an upper eyelid blepharoplasty to correct excess skin.