Causes of Ptosis

Ask an Eye M.D. Answer Archive

Question:
What can cause loose ligaments in the eye?     

Answer:
I am presuming the questioner wishes to understand the cause of ptosis or droopy upper eyelid. Ptosis or upper eyelid drooping has a large differential. The condition may be congenital or acquired—meaning one can be born with the condition or develop the condition as they get older. An acquired ptosis may be caused by long term contact lens wear, trauma or repeated episodes of swelling. There are neurologic conditions that may lead to a droopy eyelid such as diabetes, aneurysm, or Horner's syndrome. Tumors or deposits in the tissues may lead to a droopy eyelid as well. We recommend that individuals with droopy eyelids undergo a complete eye examination to determine the health of their eyes and the cause of the eyelid droop. Once known, the eyelid position may be raised to a more normal position by an oculofacial plastic surgeon. 

Answered by: Rona Silkiss, MD 

Categories: Eye Surgery

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