Ptosis

ABC Children's Eye Specialists

Ophthalmologists & Optometrists located in Avondale, Phoenix, & Mesa, AZ

Eyes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but if your child has a drooping upper eyelid that interferes with their vision, they may have ptosis. At ABC Children’s Eye Specialists in Phoenix, Avondale, and Mesa, Arizona, the team of pediatric ophthalmologists and optometrists offer customized services to address ptosis including eye surgery. Call or schedule an appointment online today.

Ptosis Q & A

What is ptosis?

Ptosis is the clinical term for a droopy eyelid. Ptosis is congenital — present at birth — or it’s acquired later in life. Ptosis can affect one or both eyes.

The most common cause of congenital ptosis in children is poor or delayed development of the muscle that controls the upper eyelid, which inhibits their ability to open their eye. Other causes of ptosis include neurologic conditions such as myasthenia gravis, progressive external ophthalmoplegia, and Horner syndrome. Ptosis often occurs with an eye movement disorder that leads to double vision.

Why is ptosis a problem?

Ptosis can interfere with your child’s vision and cause other issues. If the droop is severe, it can cover your child’s pupil and disrupt their vision. Ptosis can also lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) as the brain learns to ignore signals from the affected eye. Additionally, the constant pressure on the cornea can lead to astigmatism and other corneal irregularities that disrupt vision.

At the same time, your child may adopt an abnormal posture to attempt to see under the drooping eyelid. For example, many children with ptosis lift their chins and develop neck and back problems as a result. Your child may also contract the muscles in their forehead to try to lift the drooping eyelid, which can lead to chronic headaches and strain.

How is ptosis corrected?

The ophthalmologists and optometrists at ABC Children’s Eye Specialists use a variety of tests to diagnose any vision problems ptosis causes. They offer therapies and procedures to both correct the drooping eyelid and any resultant vision problems.

For example, ptosis is often addressed with surgery to lift the eyelid and repair the muscles that control it. At the same time, if your child has developed signs of amblyopia, your doctor may recommend eye patching treatment to strengthen the weaker eye and stimulate healthy neural pathways between the brain and the eye. Or, if ptosis has led to astigmatism, your doctor may recommend corrective lenses to help your child see clearly.

If your child has a droopy eyelid or is showing other signs of ptosis, call ABC Children’s Eye Specialists or schedule a consultation online today.

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