Ptosis Surgery

What is ptosis?

Abnormal drooping of the upper eyelid is called ptosis. Normally upper eyelid covers about one-sixth of the cornea that is 2 millimeters. Ptosis is said to be present if the upper eyelid covers more than 2 millimeters of the cornea.

Levator palpebrae superioris is the muscle, which is responsible in elevating the upper eyelid. Any defect in the muscle per se or the nerve (third cranial nerve) innervating the muscle may lead to ptosis.

What are the different types of ptosis?

Congenital ptosis: It is the common form of eyelid ptosis present since childbirth. It may involve one or both upper eyelids and vary in severity from mild to severe. This form of eyelid ptosis is often the result of lack of development of the levator muscle.

Acquired ptosis: This is a type of upper eyelid ptosis. The tendon of the levator muscle may loosen or detach, causing ptosis. This process is similar to a knee ligament sprain or tear. It is not uncommon for one to develop a droopy upper eyelid following cataract surgery. The cataract surgery may be the ‘last straw’ that causes a weak tendon to finally give way.Read More