Ptosis


Ptosis is drooping of the upper eyelid. The lid may droop slightly or it may completely cover the pupil. The drooping eyelid can obstruct normal vision. When present at birth, ptosis is usually due to poor development of the muscle that lifts the lid.


Recognising Ptosis


The most obvious sign of ptosis is the drooping lid itself. Children with ptosis often tip their heads back to see underneath their eyelids.


Treating Ptosis


Ptosis can cause amblyopia in the eye with the drooping lid. Children with ptosis should be assessed by an ophthalmologist to determine whether surgery on the eyelid is warranted. If the ptosis is not limiting vision, no treatment may be necessary.