Droopy eyelids

Brett S. Kotlus MD, MS answers: Eyelid ptosis or extra skin?

I am going to see an eye surgeon in two weeks but I wanted to have an idea what to ask before I go. I am 26, I was told by my mother that my right eye drooped when I was younger. Now it appears to be my left eye, but when I pull the right eye down a bit and it folds over the eye brow, it appears to be lower then the left eye. Is my problem a ptosis or extra skin? Should I mention this to my doctor or see what he says first? It is more noticeable when I am tired.


Brett S. Kotlus MD, MS
2 months ago

The position of the eyelid margin of the left upper lid is lower as compared to the right upper lid. This is termed ptosis (or blepharoptosis). There are different varieties of ptosis with different causes. Luckily, these are often corrected with the appropriate procedure.

With a history of ptosis on the other lid, you should see an oculofacial plastic surgeon who can evaluate your ptosis, rule out rare and serious causes of ptosis,  and help you to find a solution.

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