Ptosis is a medical condition that describes the drooping of the upper eyelid. Ptosis might affect one or both of our eyes. Ptosis results in patients having a constant “sleepy” or “drowsy” look to their faces, giving the impression that they are always tired or disinterested. Patients suffering from moderately severe ptosis would also experience that their field of vision is partially blocked or obstructed due to the drooping eyelid.
Ptosis can be both congenital (present at birth) or acquired. The usual cause of acquired ptosis is weakening or stretching of the upper eyelid muscle known as the levator muscle. This may be due to aging or the frequent use of contact lenses. Only upper eyelid surgery can restore the proper functioning of the eyelid.
The aim of ptosis surgery would be increase and permit a full view of vision by elevating the upper eyelid, while aiming for a reasonable amount of symmetry for both eyes. This could be achieved by tightening the levator muscle and also by removing excess fat and tissue in the affected eyelids. The eyelid surgery is conducted under local anaesthesia and it usually takes about 1 – 2 hours. Both eyelids can be operated on at the same time.
After the surgery, the eyelid that was operated on will be swollen. Several medications will be prescribed to reduce swelling and minimise bruising. There may be excess tearing causing temporary blurring of vision.
