Commonly known as a drooping eyelid, ptosis is characterized by an excess sagging of the upper eyelid, obstructing normal vision and affecting the overall quality of life. Ptosis can affect one or both upper eyelids and can be present at birth (congenital) or acquired later in life.
Untreated ptosis may result in visual impairment, reduced self-confidence, and eye infections. That is why considering a consultation with Dr. Paik Dong Won and Dr. Jung Sae Rom at Eyeonce Eye Clinic could be a wise step toward treating ptosis and improving your eye’s overall health.
Causes and Risk Factors
Ptosis or drooping eyelid may rise from a range of causes, such as:
- Muscle Weakness – When the levator muscle—the one responsible for lifting the eyelid—weakens, the eyelid droops and obstructs vision. The weakening of the levator muscle is due to several factors, including age, trauma, and certain underlying medical conditions.
- Aging – The natural aging process highly contributes to wearying of the tissues supporting the eyelids, including the muscles and connective tissues, thus resulting in ptosis.
- Nerve Damage – Damage to the nerves controlling eyelid muscles may lead to eyelid drooping. This damage can stem from certain medical conditions, injuries, or neurological disorders.
- Congenital Ptosis – Some individuals are born with ptosis due to underdeveloped or under-functioning eyelid muscles since birth.
- Acquired Ptosis – This type of ptosis acquired after birth can result from various causes such as injuries, medical conditions, lifestyle factors, etc. Acquired ptosis affects people of all ages.
- Medical Conditions – Autoimmune disorders like myasthenia gravis that affect muscle functions, including eyelid muscles, can lead to ptosis.
- Eyelid Trauma – Direct physical trauma to the eye or eyelid may disrupt the eyelid muscle’s normal function, resulting in ptosis.
- Eyelid Ptosis from Botox Misuse – Improper or unsupervised use of botulinum toxin (Botox) injections may lead to ptosis as a side effect due to the unintended weakening of muscles.
Our eye care professionals at Eyeonce Eye Clinic can provide expert guidance, comprehensive diagnosis, and tailored treatment options for drooping eyelids. Seeking professional medical attention helps regain your eye’s optimal health and function.
Symptoms
Ptosis manifests distinct symptoms that can impact both vision and overall well-being, such as:
- Uneven eyelids
- Impaired vision
- Eyestrain and fatigue
- Compensatory actions
- Eyebrow arching
- Reduced eye contact
- Fatigue and headaches
- Sagging eyelids
- Extremely dry or watery eyes
- Aching around the eye area
- Tipping the head back to see clearly
Do not hesitate to seek consultation if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. Eyeonce Eye Clinic’s very own Dr. Paik Dong Won and Dr. Jung Sae Rom, are equipped to diagnose and treat ptosis effectively. Their expertise enables them to provide personalized treatment plans that cater to each case’s specific symptoms and causes of a drooping eyelid.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Eye care professionals at Eyeonce Eye Clinic diagnose ptosis following these procedures:
- Medical History and Symptoms Review – The diagnosis primarily starts with a comprehensive assessment of your medical history and all existing symptoms. It helps our eye doctors understand your case’s underlying causes and possible treatment approaches.
- Physical Examination – A thorough examination of your eyelids, eye movement, and overall eye health is conducted to evaluate the extent of eyelid droop, eyebrow arching, and other compensatory actions.
- Eyelid Muscle Testing – It involves simple tests such as opening and closing your eyes and assesses the strength of the muscle responsible for lifting the eyelids.
- Visual Field Test – This test assesses your ability to see objects in different areas and how ptosis affects your vision field.
- Underlying Causes Evaluation – Additional tests like nerve function tests, imaging studies, or blood tests may be conducted to identify underlying conditions contributing to ptosis.
Once the diagnosis is made, our ophthalmologists will proceed with treating your condition, which may include the following:
- Observation – It is done primarily for mild ptosis cases that do not hamper daily activities. Observation includes a “wait and watch” approach where regular monitoring is performed to ensure relevant progressions are tracked.
- Eyelid Exercises – Weakening muscles causes some cases of drooping eyelids and can be improved through prescribed eyelid strengthening exercises, which aid in proper muscle functions.
- Medications – Though typically considered a temporary relief as a part of more extensive treatment, certain medications for specific instances might be prescribed to improve muscle strength or nerve function.
- Surgery – Moderate to severe ptosis requires surgical intervention. The procedure involves adjusting the muscles or tissues responsible for eyelid movement to lift or reposition the eyelid appropriately.
If you want to learn more about these treatment options for ptosis, book an appointment with our eye care professionals at Eyeonce to experience top-notch medical care.
Why choose Eyeonce Eye Clinic Gangnam for Ptosis treatment?
Utmost Patient Care
Our eye care professionals and staff ensure to give you your money’s worth. We guarantee you receive the best medication possible and assure you that you are guided and understood, making you feel comfortable and confident at every step.
Comprehensive Consultation
Eyeonce Eye Clinic offers comprehensive eye examinations to evaluate your condition and determine the best ptosis treatment. Our ophthalmologists take their time to cater to your questions and address your concerns, ensuring you make an informed decision about our vision correction options.
Expert Eye Doctors
Our ophthalmologists, Head Director Dr. Paik Dong Won and Medical Director Dr. Jung Sae Rom, are highly knowledgeable and adept in treating ptosis. They always use the latest techniques and technologies to ensure optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Untreated, severe ptosis can potentially lead to vision problems. That is why you must seek timely intervention as soon as drooping eyelid symptoms manifest.
Yes. Contact lenses can be worn if you have ptosis; however, observation to proper care and hygiene are essential to prevent any discomfort or complications.
In some cases, yes. Ptosis can recur after surgery, primarily if the underlying cause is not fully addressed. Regular follow-up checkups with your trusted ophthalmologist are essential to monitor your condition.
Conclusion
Whether congenital or acquired, ptosis can significantly impact your appearance and vision. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment is essential for a quality life. If you are suffering from a drooping eyelid, book a consultation with Eyeonce Eye Clinic’s ophthalmologists to explore suitable interventions for your case. You may also visit our website to learn more about our services, expertise, and eye care professionals!
