What Is A
Ptosis?
Ptosis is a condition in which the upper eyelid droops over the eye. Ptosis is generally observed in older people where the eyelid droops a little or can cover the pupil due to sagging, interfering with vision. In extreme cases, it can block normal vision entirely. Ptosis can be seen in both children and adults and repairing is required for restoring youthfulness and vision.
Congenital Ptosis is the condition where a child is born with Ptosis. It can be detected by observing a drooping eyelid, and the child may find it difficult to see properly using normal eye position. A possible cause for this problem can be a malfunction of the levator muscles that lift the eyelid. In some cases, a child may also have other related eye problems along with Ptosis such as eye muscle control issues, eye muscle disease or tumours. If a child is diagnosed with this condition, then he is also at risk for other vision problems such as amblyopia (lazy eye) or astigmatism. It is also essential that such a child undergo regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist
When Ptosis occurs in adults, it is called Involutional Ptosis where it is seen that the levator muscle has stretched or separated from the eyelid due to ageing or injury. Sometimes an inaccurate surgical procedure of the eye can also cause this problem. The course of treatment for Ptosis will be decided after a thorough examination and consultation with a trained ophthalmologist and will be different in children and adults.
In the case of children, the eye doctor will consider some key factors before recommending the line of treatment. This includes the age of the child, eyelid height, muscle strength and range of movement. The treatment of choice to correct the problem is eyelid lifting surgery that improves both appearance and vision.
Procedure
This surgery is simple and performed by numbing the eye area with local anesthesia. In this, the surgeon will lift the eyelid by tightening the levator muscles or reattach it for severe cases. In cases where muscle tightening won’t help, then frontalis suspension is performed. Frontalis suspension involves placing small strands between the eyelid and eyebrow; the strands are then tightened to raise the eyelid. Frontalis suspension procedure in children is done using fibrous tissue of the leg while in adults, elastic silicon strands are used.
It is better to take rest for about a week after surgery. After the surgery, there will be swelling, bruising and blurred vision. Some people notice drying of the eyes post-treatment and may need lubricating drops or other medication. If the eyelid height is not correct, readjustment may be needed.
Risks
As eye and vision problems are very delicate issues and can cause emotional as well as health problems, it is critical to choose the right surgeon and the right hospital for performing any surgery. A poorly done surgery can result in dry eyes or other issues with the appearance of the patient. As with most surgical procedures, there are some risks associated with Ptosis surgery such as asymmetry of eyes and loss of eye movement. Some patients may catch an eye infection.
At Orbit eye hospital, our highly qualified and experienced surgeons specialize in performing Ptosis repair with precision and care. If you wish to know more about this treatment, call us today.