Blepharoptosis is a condition where one or both upper eyelids droop, often due to aging or birth defects. It can cause vision problems and irritation, but can be corrected through surgery or managed with medication and specialized glasses.
Blepharoptosis is a condition in which one or both upper eyelids droop, interfering with vision. The disorder is more common in older people, as the muscle fibers in the eyelids naturally weaken as we age. Infants, children, and young adults can also experience blepharoptosis due to a serious infection, eye injury, tumor, or birth defect. Doctors can usually correct the problem through simple surgical procedures, but the underlying causes may require further treatment to prevent other health complications.
Age-related blepharoptosis tends to become more and more evident over the course of several years and it is common for both eyes to be affected to some degree. Only one eye is usually involved when nerve and muscle tissue is weakened by a brain tumor, infection, or injury. Congenital disorders, which occur when muscle tissue never fully develops, are usually evident within the first year of life. It is possible for a congenital problem to affect one or both eyes in a child.
Blepharoptosis is typically not a painful condition, although a droopy eyelid can make contact with the eyeball and cause irritation. As a result, a person may have chronic eye redness and produce excessive tears. A severely droopy eyelid can impair vision, an especially problematic issue if both eyes are involved. Congenital blepharoptosis precedes the development of a lazy eye in some children when their vision is constantly obstructed to one side.
A primary care doctor or ophthalmologist can usually diagnose blepharoptosis simply by evaluating the physical appearance of the eyelids. If a doctor can’t confirm that the disorder is related to old age or congenital problems, further tests are usually done to identify an underlying cause. Blood tests may reveal an infection or autoimmune disease, and diagnostic imaging scans could suggest nerve trauma, tumors, or abnormal muscle development. Once an accurate diagnosis is made, the doctor can explain different treatment options.
Some cases of blepharoptosis can be managed without surgery. Anti-inflammatory medications may be able to relieve eye pain, and glasses with a specialized closure can keep the affected eyelid in place. However, surgery is required in most cases, and modern procedures have proven very effective in relieving symptoms. An experienced surgeon can remove excess skin tissue and tighten the eyelid muscles. Vision tends to improve immediately after surgery, although additional surgery or specialized contact lenses may be needed if vision problems persist.
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