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Right Eyelid Has Felt Heavy For 4 Years. Only 21 yo- Please Advise.

I'm a 21 year old female, as of about 4 years ago my right eyelid began to feel heavy and has continued to do so intermittently (usually at the end of the day or when I wake up in the morning- sometimes, it takes a minute to even be able to open my eye). My right eye also appears to be higher up than my left and pushed in, something that was not apparent in my childhood. Is this all related to ptosis? Or is it something else? Would insurance cover the repair, is repair even possible??

Doctor Answers 5

October 22nd, 2016

You need to see an oculoplastic surgeon

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The greater prominence (proptosis?) of your right eye could be significant and is likely responsible for the changing eyelid position you are noticing. You should see an oculoplastic surgeon who specializes in the problems of eyelids and eye sockets, and they can beat guide you. 

Elba Pacheco, MD


Annapolis Oculoplastic Surgeon
4.3 out of 5 stars 7 reviews

March 15th, 2016

Uneven eyelids

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I would recommend a complete evaluation including history , examination and treatment options from an oculoplastic surgeon who specializes in eyelids.  Mild facial and eyelid asymmetry can be normal. Sometimes underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disease can cause position further explored before considering surgical or treatment options. Good luck.

Malena Amato, MD, FACS
Austin Oculoplastic Surgeon

August 19th, 2011

Right Eyelid Has Felt Heavy For 4 Years. Only 21 yo- Please Advise

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You really need a detailed Oculoplasic examination.  Go to ASOPRS.org to look for an Oculoplastic surgeon near you.

Sam Goldberger, MD
Beverly Hills Oculoplastic Surgeon

August 18th, 2011

Your eyebrow and eyes are uneven.

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I would suggest that you see an ophthalmologist  first. Your eyelid position is not typical for ptosis . Your right eyebrow is much higher and pulling your right upper eyelid higher. Facial asymmetry is very common.

Kamran Khoobehi, MD

Kamran Khoobehi, MD
New Orleans Plastic Surgeon
4.8 out of 5 stars 154 reviews

August 18th, 2011

You should see an oculoplastic surgeon

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You appear to have a problem called Graves Disease or Thyroid Eye Disease.  It is an autoimmune problem that is often (but not always) related to problems with your thyroid hormone levels.

Your first step should be to see an oculoplastic surgeon.  You will need an examination and either a CT scan or MRI to rule out other, less common, problems.  He/She will also suggest blood tests and possibly an evaluation by an endocrinologist.

Hope this is helpful.

 

 

Learn more: http://www.asoprs.org

Marc Cohen, MD

Marc Cohen, MD
Philadelphia Oculoplastic Surgeon
4.8 out of 5 stars 26 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.