Cosmetics

Help for Droopy Lids

Ptosis is the medical term for drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition that may affect one or both eyes. When the edge of the upper eyelid falls, it may block the upper field of your vision.
Symptoms of ptosis include a decreased ability to keep your eyes open, eye strain from the increased effort needed to raise your eyelids, and fatigue, especially when reading.
In severe cases, it may be necessary to tilt your head back or lift the eyelid with a finger in order to see out from under the droopy eyelid(s). You may also complain that your eyelids have a tired appearance from droopy eyelids even though you are well rested.
Acquired ptosis is usually treated by surgery. The surgery is usually performed as an outpatient (there is usually no need for hospitalization). Local anesthesia which numbes the upper eyelid is combined with light sedation so there is little, if any, pain during or even after the procedure. The main goals of ptosis surgery are elevation of the upper eyelid to restore normal field of vision and an attempt to achieve symmetr with the opposite upper eyelid.
Ptsosis is most often treated by ophthalmic, plastic and reconstructive surgeons. Fellowship in the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) indicates that the surgeon has special training and expertise in this subspeciality.
If the droopy eyelid is interfering with vision, the cost of the surgery may be covered completly or partly by your medical insurance.