Congenital Ptosis

Droopy eyelids in children Ptosis is the medical term for drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition that may affect one or both eyes.

Ptosis that is present since birth is called congenital ptosis.

The ptosis may be mild - in which the lid partially covers the pupil; or severe - in which the lid completely covers the pupil.

Children with significant ptosis may need to tilt their head back into a chin-up position, lift their eyelid with a finger, or raise their eyebrows in an effort to see from under their drooping eyelid(s).

While the cause of congenital ptosis is often unclear, the most common reason is improper development of the levator muscle. The levator muscle is the major muscle responsible for elevating the upper eyelid.

Children with congenital ptosis may also have amblyopia ("lazy eye"), strabismus (eyes that are not properly aligned or straight), refractive errors, astigmatism, or blurred vision. In addition, drooping of the eyelid may result in an undesired facial appearance.

Congenital ptosis is treated surgically, with the specific operation based on the severity of the ptosis and the strength of the levator muscle. If the 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.

Congenital ptosis is most often treated 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.

 

 

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Blepharoplasty
(Removal of extra skin and bags of the eyelids)

Blepharospasm
(Spasm or twitching of the eye)

Botox
Medicine to reduce twitching and wrinkling)

Congenital Ptosis
(Droopy eyelids in children)

Hyperpigmentation
(Dark circles under the eye)

Laser Skin Resurfacing
(Rejuvination of the skin using a laser)

Skin Cancer Removal

Before & After Photos