I can't control the movement in my left eyelid. Can it be fixed?

Question

Right from my birth, I'm unable to operate my left eyelid. However, my left eye does get opened on its own but not fully. I feel like my left eyelid is paralyzed and I can't control its motion and it clearly looks smaller than right eye. Is it ptosis? Is it treatable? Right from my childhood days i feel like I was born with a curse! I can't explain my happiness if it gets solved.

Debra M. Kroll, MD · Answer

This sounds like congenital ptosis with decreased levator function ie. decreased function of the eyelid lifting muscle.  There are several ways to treat this and lift the eyelid depending on what the function of the muscle is.  You may be a candidate for a levator resection procedure or a frontalis sling depending on the exam findings.  The height can be fixed, however the eyelid may look different than the other eyelid when you look in different areas of gaze.  Find an experienced Oculoplastic surgeon in your area for a consultation to discuss a plan.

John A. Standefer Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds like you are describing congenital ptosis, meaning a droopy eyelid that began either at birth or shortly thereafter. The most common type of ptosis is from a stretch of the ligament that lifts the eyelid. These are amenable to reattaching the ligament to the tarsal plate. Ptosis that begins at birth is called congenital ptosis and is much less common and usually more difficult to repair.  Approximately 1% of patients with ptosis are born with it. These can be  more difficult to treat.A consultation with an experienced oculoplastic surgeon or a surgeon who specializes in eyelid position surgery, is the best way to evaluate the cause of the ptosis. There are ways to correct both types of ptosis.  You can get all of your questions answered during your consultation. John Standefer MD.

I can't control the movement in my left eyelid. Can it be fixed?

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I can't control the movement in my left eyelid. Can it be fixed?

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.