When you child has Ptosis

Ptosis (pronounced "toe-sis") means droopy eyelid(s)

What causes Ptosis?

Ptosis usually occurs in children as a congenital problem due to weakness of the muscle that raises the upper eyelid(s). Occasionally there may be other causes, such as trauma or a neurological cause. Your doctor may do test to find out the cause of your child's Ptosis.

What can happen if you have Ptosis?

• Amblyopia (decreased vision or "lazy eye") may occur in the affected eye if the droopy eyelid blocks vision.
• The child may have to tilt his or her head back to see better from under the droopy eyelid(s).
• Droopy eyelids may cause the fhild to look uninterested or inattentive. Other people's reaction to the child's appearance may affect his or her self-image.
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What is the treatment?

If the Ptosis is significant enough, various surgical procedures can be used to correct it. If the child's vision is affected surgery may be performed at an earlier age. Your doctor will discuss with you which procedure is best for your child based on the severity if the Ptosis and the age of the child.