Blepharoptosis, also known as ptosis, refers to the abnormal drooping of the upper eyelid. Ptosis can worsen over time if left untreated. If patients do not seek treatment for ptosis, they may experience vision interruption or loss due to increased eyelid drooping. When the upper eyelid no longer functions, individuals can have vision loss until treatment can be received.
People with ptosis may experience visual obstruction and a heavy eyelid. Whether a person seeks ptosis repair for cosmetic reasons or to improve vision, surgery can be beneficial. Without surgical intervention, ptosis can worsen, leading to various eye-related health issues and increased eyelid drooping.
Ptosis and Appearance
People with ptosis may feel self-conscious because droopy eyelids can make them appear tired or disinterested. As the eyelid muscles weaken over time, drooping can worsen and impair vision. When the field of vision is blocked or interrupted, it can create more issues such as eye strain and headaches.
Because the eyelids play an important role in eye health, ptosis repair may be necessary, and sometimes crucial. With this type of surgery, doctors use precision in treatment. Surgical treatment requires an expert with experience treating ptosis. Because some individuals seek treatment for cosmetic reasons, your doctor may have experience treating a variety of ptosis types.
Untreated Ptosis
According to the National Library of Medicine, untreated ptosis can lead to several health issues. Ptosis is relatively common and can occur as part of the aging process, but it can also cause complications. Along with worsening conditions, untreated ptosis can lead to:
- Inflammation
- Infection
- Tension headaches
- Partial vision loss
- Dry eye
- Chronic eye strain
- Irritation
- Reduced corneal sensation
- Edema
- Lazy eye
- Red eye
- Hematoma
- Pain behind the eye
- Physical discomfort
Any of the above can worsen eyesight when left untreated. In addition to this, if ptosis causes interruptions in vision, individuals may be unable to perform certain tasks including the following:
- Reading
- Writing
- Driving
- Cooking a meal
- Using the computer or tablets
- Cleaning
- Working
Vision obstruction can be severe. While some patients may experience total vision loss, others have only mild vision issues. Thankfully, surgery and other treatments can correct ptosis in time to prevent serious eye damage.
Ptosis Treatment Process
Manual or electrical stimulation of the eyelid may help treat ptosis. Doctors may also prescribe eye drops to help treat ptosis and related symptoms.
To treat ptosis, the process may involve the following:
- Taping the eyelid or eyebrow to remove it from the field of vision
- Applying topical medication to the eyelid to prevent scarring
- Performing surgery to remove muscle, excess fat, or tissue that interferes with vision
- Providing eye drops for patients to use post-surgery
- Surgically correcting the eyelid
If you experience eyelid drooping, seek professional treatment. Managing ptosis early can help prevent it from worsening over time. Without immediate treatment, surgical intervention may be needed.
Find Treatment Today
At Maryland Eye and Face, we provide expert treatment. Dr. Parag Gandhi, our board-certified oculoplastic surgeon, has years of experience treating a wide range of cosmetic issues, including ptosis. Our professional staff is committed to helping those in need.
Our oculoplastic surgeon specializes in cosmetic eyelid surgery and facial procedures. Because each patient’s health and concerns are different, Dr. Gandhi takes a unique approach to treating the eye. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your condition and how ptosis can be treated.