What is upper eye lid ptosis?

The word ptosis basically means drooping. Eyelid ptosis is the result of a weak or non functioning eyelid muscle. This is different than simply redundant eyelid skin which simple removal will correct. It is important to diagnose the right condition(s) to correct your problem.

Eyelid ptosis [or blepharoptosis] is an eyelid condition whereby the entire eyelid sits too low on the eyeball. This condition needs to be differentiated from excess eyelid skin that hangs over the eyelid and lashes. Both these conditions, if severe enough can cause visual field problems. If the visual field deficit is severe enough, sometimes insurance will pay for the cost of surgery.But they are also commonly performed for cosmetic issues. I've attached a photo of a patient that had severe ptosis causing visual field deficit.Feel free to ask follow up questionsBest regards

Upper eyelid ptosis is true droopiness of the upper eyelid, which results from weak or relaxed levator muscle, which is responsible for lifting the upper eyelid.  It can be corrected by eyelid ptosis surgery, where the muscle is tightened to lift the upper eyelid. See an oculoplastic specialist for such problem.

Ptosis is drooping of the upper eyelid margin closer to or over the pupil. This is due to weakness or diminished function of the eyelid elevating muscle. The most important point is that an upper blepharoplasty which removes skin and possibly some muscle from the upper eyelid will not correct an upper eyelid ptosis. It can actually make the eyelid look worse. If you do have a ptosis and it's being repaired, ensure that the plan includes a ptosis repair. If you're unsure about the plan or your surgeon doesn't seem to appreciate what is going on with your eyelids you should seek a second opinion with an oculoplastic surgeon. I hope this information is helpful.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Eyelid ptosis is when there is attenuation of the levator aponeurosis which is connected to the muscle that suspends your upper eyelids in the natural position above the pupil arcing along the upper iris.  There are other causes, though thinning of the levator is the most common.  Dermatochalasis can be in either the upper or lower lids and refers to skin excess above or below the eyelid margin.  Brow ptosis is when there is descent of the eyebrows towards the upper orbital rim and sometimes falling below the lateral part of the orbital rim.  Of note, brow ptosis can contribute to dermatochalasis.Oculoplastic surgeons & plastic surgeons with oculoplastic training can easily differentiate between these three conditions and therefore provide the appropriate treatment.  

The term eyelid ptosis indicates that there is weakness or dysfunction of the muscles that hold the position of the upper eyelid in place. This results in drooping of the actual eyelid, placing the lower border of the eyelid lower over the eye (closer to the pupil). This differs from dermatochalasis, which is the appearance of excess skin above the eyelid. Dermatochalasis is corrected with blepharoplasty surgery (upper eyelid lift). Eyelid ptosis requires a slightly more complex procedure to correct the internal attachments of the eyelid to the muscle controlling its position. This procedure should only be performed by an experienced Plastic Surgeon or Oculoplastic Surgeon with experience with this procedure.