The condition of drooping upper eyelid is known as Ptosis in medical terms. This disorder of the eye can affect either or both the eyelids. The Eyelid Institute at the Palm Springs refers to this condition as the ‘Saggy eyelid syndrome’. The drooping of the upper eyelid leads to completely cover the pupil, iris and other parts of the eye. A regression in ability to keep the eyes open coupled with eyestrain are some of the main symptoms of the condition. Ptosis affects patients irrespective of the age barriers and has a variety of causes.
Symptoms of a droopy eyelid
The drooping eyelid forms the most prominent symptom of ptosis. Associated symptoms include trouble in shutting or opening the eye or a continuous urge to slant the head for better vision. Allied dysfunctions with ptosis include fatigue of the eyes, skewed eyes, or presence of double vision. The experts in eye care suggest a self-comparison test wherein one compares a decade old photo of self to a recent one to determine any difference in the eyelids. In the presence of any difference it is inferred that one could have probably developed ptosis.
Causes of saggy eyelids
There are several factors linked with the development of a droopy eyelid. It may be hereditary, may also be caused due to old age or due to strain or injury caused to the eyelids. Probable causes could be eye tumors, neurological dysfunction, or diseases such as diabetes. Opioids such as morphine, oxycodone, or hydrocodone can also cause ptosis.
Droopy eyelids hinder vision and can result into headaches due to strain on the eyelids. It is very important that the disorder is treated as soon as possible, before it begins to interfere with one’s vision. This is especially important in children whose vision is in developing stage. Ptosis can affect people of all ages, and is not more common in one age group than another.
Treating ptosis with eyelid surgery
Ptosis patients do not require treatment in case of mild symptoms. However, in moderate to severe cases surgery is recommended. Corrective surgery known as blepharoplasty is performed. Depending on the eyelid to be operated the surgery is further classified as upper blepharoplasty and lower blepharoplasty. Dr Jennifer Hui – a distinguished board certified oculoplastic surgeon offers eyelid surgery to patients in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and surrounding areas.
An oculoplastic surgeon can identify the presence of ptosis and provide a comprehensive solution to lift the upper eyelids as well as remove underlying ptosis. This procedure is conceptualized to rejuvenate and replenish tired eyes to make them younger-looking.
Dr Hui’s post-operative care comprises of ice packs and cool compresses to minimize the swelling in patients post surgery. Most of the patients experience minimal discomfort, but can resume their daily routine in about a week’s time. Dr. Hui cautions her patients to protect the eyelids from the sun for three months after the operation to achieve best results.
If you are looking for more information about cosmetic eyelid surgery and non-surgical eyelid treatments and procedures performed by Oculoplastic Eyelid Surgeon Dr. Jennifer Hui and live in or around Palm Springs, La Quinta, Coachella Valley, Palm Desert, Riverside, Redlands, Yucaipa, Loma Linda California, Rancho Mirage call 760 610 2677 or click here to contact us.
