The term, droopy eyelids, makes one think of aging. Loosening of skin around the eye area is a common characteristic of aging. However, is it just a sign of aging or does it indicate something more serious? Is it just a cosmetic consequence of aging or is there any risk factor associated with droopy eyelids? Continue reading to learn more about ptosis (ตาตก, which is the term in Thai), the medical term for droopy eyelids.  

Causes Of Droopy Eyelids 

In reality, there are several causes of droopy eyelids. Droopy eyelids can be caused due to one or more of the following factors: 

• Aging: this the most common cause. 
• Trauma: This is a relatively rare cause of droopy eyelids but research has proven the relationship between the two. 
• Underlying Medical Condition: Droopy eyelids may even be a symptom of some underlying medical condition. It is therefore important to get it checked by a physician. 
• Genetics: When this condition is seen in children, adolescents, and young adults who are supposed to have firm and smooth skin, the cause might be genetics.  

Types Of Droopy Eyelids

About aging, loosening of the skin on the orbital area of both eyes is common. In reality, there are many types of ptosis based on several factors.

• Bilateral: when both eyelids are droopy. 
• Unilateral: when one eyelid is droopy and the other eyelid is not. 
• Congenital: when this condition occurs in children since their birth. This is quite rare. 
• Acquired: when this condition develops at some point in time in one’s life. 

Another important thing worth noting about this condition is that it may be temporary or permanent.  

Symptoms Of Droopy Eyelids

Ptosis occurs due to the weakening and stretching of the levator muscles. The levator muscles are the ones that are responsible for holding up one’s eyelids. Some common symptoms of droopy eyelids include:

• One or both of the eyelids look droopy. If the drooping is severe, it can affect one’s vision. 
• One may even experience aches around the eye area. 
• Migraine headache is a rarer symptom of this condition. 
• An individual may also experience dryness or watery eyes.  

Treatment For Droopy Eyelids 

Once ptosis has been diagnosed through a physical exam, slit lamp exam, and Tensilon test, treatment can begin. Surgical intervention and ptosis crutch are two common treatment options in case it doesn’t resolve naturally. It is important to be aware of this condition so that one can get help when required.