Everything You Need to Know About Ptosis
- Posted on: Aug 27 2012
Drooping eyelids, medically referred to as Ptosis, is a condition wherein the upper eyelids droop low enough. In some cases, the eyelid skin may fold over the edge causing vision problems. Decreased muscle tone in the muscles which control the eyelids are often responsible for the droopiness. Dr. Daniel S. Tresley is a Chicago eyelid plastic surgeon with exceptional credentials and vast experience in treating clients, both children and adults, with ptosis.
So what exactly triggers the condition? How is it treated? Read on below for the hard facts.
Congenital vs. Adult Ptosis
Ptosis in children is often inherent at birth and mainly caused by the poorly developed eyelid lifting muscles known as the levator muscle. Drooping eyelids in children could result to moderate to severe visual impairment. With the child’s head constantly tilted backwards, delayed motor development may ensue. Most children with Ptosis have normal levels of intelligence and functioning though.
By and large, Ptosis in adults is caused by separation of the lower aspect of the eyelids and the levator muscle tendons. The separation often occurs due to aging, long-term use of contact lens or injury. Ptosis may also occur after eye surgeries such as glaucoma repair.
Surgical Approach by Dr. Tresley
Both congenital and adult Ptosis are best treated with surgery. Medications may be prescribed for drooping eyelids caused by an underlying disorder such as myasthenia gravis, a neuromuscular disorder.
In adults, Ptosis surgery involves tightening the levator tendon and muscle. The procedure could be performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation, often referred to as twilight anesthesia. In some cases, minor droopiness could be adjusted via making an incision within the eyelid itself.
Surgery for mild Ptosis in children may have to be delayed and performed right after they reach a certain age. However, moderate to severe Ptosis may need to be treated right away to avoid further problems on vision and motor development.
Dr. Tresley can perform Ptosis surgery in an outpatient setting. All in all, the main goal of Ptosis correction via surgery is to raise the eyelids above the pupil and restore overall symmetry.
If you’d like to know more about Ptosis and its different treatment options, get in touch with Dr. Tresley by filling out this contact form!
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