You may not know what ptosis is, but chances are you’ve seen it before. It’s the drooping of one or both lids that occurs naturally with age and can happen at any time in life due to other factors like illness, injury, trauma, or fatigue. Ptosis can be corrected with a procedure called blepharoplasty, which removes excess skin from the upper eyelid and repositions the muscle so that the lid will stay open more easily. In Peoria, Arizona, some specialists offer comprehensive ptosis solutions. Consider visiting the best center for ptosis in Peoria. This blog post explores why people have ptosis and what the treatment is like.
What is Ptosis, and How Does it Happen?
Ptosis is a condition that affects the eyelid. The upper lid begins to droop, and it may close partially or entirely over the pupil. In some cases, the eye will repeatedly blink to make up for this lack of control. This can cause problems with vision because light enters through only one side of the pupil at a time.
What Causes Ptosis?
Ptosis emerges as a weakness in the “Elevator Muscle,” which keeps the upper eyelid raised. It may be present for several reasons:
- Medical Condition: ptosis can come from an underlying medical condition, such as myasthenia gravis or thyroid eye disease
- Medication: certain medications, like antihistamines or antipsychotic drugs, can weaken eyelid muscles
- Congenital disability: some people are born with ptosis. If the eye is drooping at birth, it will probably remain that way unless surgery corrects it in early childhood.
- Fatigue: when you’re fatigued, your eyelids may droop
- Age: with age, the muscle that keeps the eyelid up may weaken and cause ptosis
When Should I See a Doctor About my Drooping Eyelids?
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of ptosis, it’s essential to see a doctor. In some cases, ptosis can signify a more severe problem. A doctor can determine the cause of your ptosis and may recommend treatment.
How is Ptosis Treated?
The most common way to treat ptosis is through a procedure called blepharoplasty. The doctor removes excess skin and muscle from the upper eyelid which gives it a more youthful appearance. The muscle is then repositioned to ensure that the eye opens up quickly. This can help resolve vision problems such as blurred or double vision and prevent the skin from covering your pupil.
Can Ptosis Be Prevented?
Yes, with proper preventive measures, ptosis can be prevented. If you are taking medications that may cause ptosis or if you have ptosis in your family history, ask your doctor about preventative measures to keep this from happening.
Ptosis, or drooping of the eyelids, is a natural part of aging that some people have more trouble with than others. It generally isn’t a significant medical condition, but if you’re experiencing any symptoms from ptosis and it’s affecting your life negatively in any way, consider getting a blepharoplasty to remove the excess skin on the upper lid.
